Legal needs are growing for veterans and members of the military.
Family issues, discharge complications, housing and landlord troubles, and COVID problems all have increased the need for veterans legal services.
The city of Jacksonville and Jacksonville Area Legal Aid are creating something of a one-stop shop to meet that need.
Starting Thursday — and every third Thursday of the month — free legal advice will be available for veterans and military service members at the Military Affairs and Veterans Department at City Hall. Hours are 9 a.m. to noon.
“We’ve been referring, obviously, clients out for a number of years, but this is an attempt to create a one-stop shop here in City Hall,” said Harrison Conyers, the department’s interim director.
Veterans and service members can get advice on family law, housing, probate and estates, contracts, consumer issues, veteran’s benefits, military discharge upgrades and security clearance defense, among other topics.
Appointments are encouraged. Call 904-255-5550. Once an appointment is made, you will need to bring any documentation related to your situation.
The city says attorneys will not accept cases for representation. They will only offer legal advice and information on available resources.