So, you have a civil legal problem and don’t know where to turn?  The Center for Arkansas Legal Services’ (CALS) Helpline is here to help.  The Helpline is open 9 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday.  The Helpline is the primary entry point for assistance from the CALS as well as a stand-alone unit that provides FREE civil legal advice NOW.

You can contact the Helpline by calling 501-376-3423 or toll-free at 800-950-5817. You will be greeted by an Intake Specialist who will screen you for eligibility for our program.  CALS is a non-profit organization that provides free legal assistance for low-income Arkansans.  So, this means that you will be screened for financial eligibility (we accept those up to 125% above the poverty rate).  The Intake Specialist will also confirm that your case is not in conflict with one of our existing clients (this is called a conflict of interest check).  

If you are eligible for our program, we will open an internal case and let you interview with one of our experienced Helpline Attorneys.  The Helpline Attorney will listen to your facts, assess what your legal issue is, and recommend action steps.  A select number of cases will be forwarded from the Helpline Attorney to our extended service group for additional services such as preparing documents or possibly even court representation.

To ensure that you get the best possible outcome from your call to our Helpline, below are some tips to follow:

• Try to avoid distractions during our call (turn off the TV, pull over and park, don't take another call or ask us to hold, so you can focus), and our staff will give you as much time as your problem requires.

• We may need to ask personal and sensitive questions to gain a better understanding of your situation, and we will keep all information protected; it will not be shared or sold.

• Keep your documents available to help us in giving you specific and accurate advice related to your unique situation.

• Write down all your questions ahead of time, and dates if necessary, to avoid missing anything

• Have a pen and paper handy, as our staff may give you instructions. Don't hesitate to ask questions or have us repeat instructions so you will know what to do later. If you do not follow the instructions as given, it is NOT likely that you will get the outcome you desire.

• Some cases have no legal remedy, or the case is too weak to proceed; if we have to tell you this, please be understanding and respectful.

Some of the services we may be able to provide you are:

• Legal advice over the telephone

• More detailed information

• Brief service (e.g., limited legal research and drafting of documents such as power of attorney)

• Legal representation by a Center for Arkansas Legal Services staff or volunteer attorney

• Referral to other agencies

• Referral to a private attorney for advice or representation

Please remember, if you need some legal advice or help with your legal issues, call our Helpline at 501-376-3423 or toll-free at 800-950-5817 for assistance with your civil legal needs.  We look forward to serving you. 

If you would like to meet the faces of our Helpline staff, watch this video- www.facebook.com/reel

AUTHOR: ZINA FRAZIER, DIRECTOR OF INTAKE & ACCESS FOR THE CENTER FOR ARKANSAS LEGAL SERVICES