Barnes Encourages Sandy-Ravaged Residents to Reach Out for Free Legal Advice to Avoid Costly Mistakes

Assembly Judiciary Committee Holds Hearing into Legal Hurdles Post-Sandy

(TRENTON) - Assembly Judiciary Committee Chair Peter J. Barnes III (D-Middlesex) held a hearing today to discuss the legal repercussions Superstorm Sandy has created for New Jersey residents and explore the services being offered to help families navigate any difficulties.

"Now that the waters have receded and we can begin to calculate the widespread destruction left behind by Sandy, a whole new headache has begun to emerge for many residents in the form of legal hurdles. Whether it's dealing with insurance claims, filing for FEMA assistance, home repair contracts, landlord-tenant issues, or the loss of vital legal documents, the list of legal needs for hard-hit residents is endless right now.

"Our hearing today did, however, provide a silver lining - both the New Jersey Bar Association and Legal Services of New Jersey have stepped up to the plate to offer their services for those in need. This is a godsend for many, particularly low income families and seniors who might not have any other family around to help out.

"I want to thank them for all they are doing to help get our state back on track. I'd also like to encourage anyone in need of legal assistance to contact either of these organizations instead of risking the chance of making a costly mistake by trying to navigate a particular hurdle on their own," said Barnes.

Barnes noted that residents in need of legal assistance can contact either organization at the following toll-free numbers:

- NJ Bar Association: 888-541-1900
- Legal Services of NJ: 888-222-5765

On the Net:
The Assembly Democratic Office Web site
NJ Assembly Dems on YouTube
NJ Assembly Dems on Vimeo
NJ Assembly Dems on Facebook
NJ Assembly Dems on Twitter
NJ Assembly Dems e-mail alerts