Children's Law Project

The Children's Law Project provides legal assistance to help disadvantaged children:

• Escape situations of abuse and neglect;
• Avoid homelessness and access decent, affordable housing; and
• Obtain needed medical care and other essential services.

Children's Law project attorneys work on behalf of individual clients; they also work to change things on a broader level for low-income families with children through advocacy and community collaboration.

Success Story:  

PLS Helps Create a Stable Home for Four Children After They Lose Their Dedicated Grandmother / Guardian

People who knew her would say that Teresa literally gave her own life caring for her four grandchildren, who were in her custody for years.  Teresa went to bat for her teenaged grandchildren over and over again to make sure they received the care they needed for health issues.  PLS attorney Curtis Venable worked with Teresa and "her kids" several times over the past five years when they hit road blocks trying to access services. 

When Teresa passed away suddenly, the children's uncle Russell, stepped up to take custody of four teens. It was important that custody be finalized quickly so that the children could maintain continuity in their health care.  Curtis helped Russell expedite the process and in just ten days the uncle had permission to care for the children.  Curtis also helped put in place services to help the family get through the difficult time of losing Teresa.
    

School Partnership Project

The School Partnership Project (SPP) is a collaboration between Pisgah Legal Services and schools to improve the lives of children.  SPP helps schools connect low-income students and families with free legal aid to meet basic needs. 

PLS staff is available to schools for training and information sessions on legal solutions to problems that students and their families are facing.  PLS staff can provide information and advice to educators about a range of issues, including housing, domestic violence, public benefits and immigration.  PLS prioritizes cases referred directly by school personnel.  For more information, contact PLS Attorney Robin Jacobs at 253-0406.