Assistance for West Virginians with SUD
At Legal Aid of WV, we understand the recovery process is complex, and there are many civil legal issues that stand in the way of creating an environment where those with SUD can focus on recovery.
Our advocates and attorneys help with many issues that can complicate reentry or recovery, such as:
- Expungement
- Barriers to employment or housing, including discrimination
- Driver’s license reinstatement
- Public benefits
SUD-Focused Medical-Legal Partnership
In September 2019, Legal Aid of WV (LAWV) entered into a Medical-Legal Partnership (MLP) with Cabin Creek Health Systems in Charleston, WV. Since the program began, services have expanded to include attorneys and paralegals throughout the state, serving Williamson Health and Wellness Center, Rea of Hope, Project Hope for Women and Children, and communities in Huntington, Wheeling, and across Southern West Virginia.
Through this MLP, LAWV staff can receive client referrals directly from recovery program staff who recognize a potential legal issue for their patients/residents. This holistic approach to care helps quickly identify and assist with legal barriers while strengthening community recovery resources.
For more information about this project, contact recovery@lawv.net.
Jobs & Hope Program
LAWV also works with West Virginia’s Jobs & Hope Program, assisting clients with civil legal issues surrounding re-entry as part of the recovery process. The LAWV-Jobs & Hope partnership is a true partnership, in which we work closely with program staff and our clients.
The challenges clients face on re-entry include help obtaining proper identification and regaining their drivers license, record expungement, and addressing child custody and child support issues.