When you call LSE, you will talk to the intake paralegal. The intake paralegal will ask you for some basic information about yourself and your legal problem.  Then one of the Helpline attorneys will call you back.  If it is not an emergency, you will usually get a call back within three to five working days.  If it is an emergency, you will likely talk to someone the same day you call.  It's very helpful to be ready with any important papers and other information when the attorney calls you back.

Usually, the Helpline attorney will be able to help you with your problem over the telephone.  But, in some situations, you will be assigned an LSE area office attorney who works right in your local area to help you with your problem.

The LSE Helpline attorneys provide legal information and advice on many legal issues and questions that often come up for Maine seniors.  LSE attorneys advise seniors about consumer debt problems, MaineCare, Medicare,  housing, public benefits, Advance Health Care Directives, financial Powers of Attorney, and other civil (non-criminal) matters.  LSE also helps seniors who have been taken advantage of, or mistreated by scammers, caregivers, family members, or others.

LSE helps with problems involving basic needs.  LSE does not handle criminal matters, divorces, or personal injury cases. 

But, if LSE can't help you, we will refer you to another legal resource, like Volunteer Lawyers Project, the Maine State Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Service, or a private attorney.