The benefits of working with a social worker differ for each client, but are broadly aimed at helping the client work effectively with his or her attorney, and increasing the client’s stability and security.  Specific areas of concern are identified by the client, social worker and attorney and a plan is created to respond to the client’s needs.  The plan may specify assistance in areas such as housing, mental health, substance abuse, communication, benefit applications, medical care, transportation, utility assistance and others.  Clients rely on the social worker for help with these issues and new problems throughout the time they have an open case with Legal Aid.

Legal Aid social workers only serve current clients of Legal Aid.  Once a client’s case has been accepted for representation by an attorney, the attorney decides whether or not to refer the client for social work services.  Professionals from other organizations who work with low-income clients in Legal Aid’s service area may call the social work supervisor to discuss the appropriateness of referrals to Legal Aid.

Legal Aid social workers provide assistance to clients at three different levels: referral, limited case management and case facilitation.  

Client Referral identify and connect clients to other community agencies and programs that can help meet the client’s needs.

Limited Case Management includes referrals, while also helping clients schedule appointments, arrange transportation, complete applications and take other such steps toward increasing their security and stability.

Case Facilitation includes both referral and case management, in addition to supporting clients’ effective participation in their legal representation.

For more information about the Legal Aid’s Law and Social Work Partnership Program, please contact Anne K. Sweeney, J.D., M.S.W., Social Work Supervisor, at anne.sweeney@lasclev.org.