VLAP welcomes most civil legal questions, including those that relate to military benefits, federal and state public benefits and disability benefits. Common legal issues we address:
- Family law
- Employment
- Housing
- Consumer protection
- Bankruptcy
- Probate
- Department of Veterans Affair benefits
- Expunction
- Military discharge upgrades
Eligibility Guidelines:
To receive services, you must be a Texas resident, a Veteran (or the spouse, dependent, or surviving spouse of a Texas Veteran), and have household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.
Additional Services:
- VLAP offers referrals to private attorneys and community services where appropriate.
- VLAP supports representatives of the Texas Veterans Commission, Veterans County Service Officers and Department of Veterans Affairs counselors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are your offices? Can we walk in for assistance?
We are based in Austin, but we serve the entire state by telephone only. We do not provide in-person, walk-in assistance.
Is there a charge for your services?
There is no charge for our service, though we do have eligibility requirements.
Can an attorney answer questions about my divorce, guardianship, custody case, will, bankruptcy, etc.?
Yes. We assist Texas Veterans on these and other issues every day.
Can you answer questions about my military discharge and assist with an upgrade?
Yes. Veterans who received a discharge from military service that was not categorized as Honorable frequently have questions about the type of discharge they received.
Can you answer questions involving veteran benefits, such as service-connected disability, non-service-connected pension, aid, attendance, or survivor’s benefits?
Yes. Many of the Veterans we assist are dealing with Veteran Administration-related matters in which input from an attorney is beneficial.
Can your project refer me to a reduced-fee attorney in my area?
Perhaps. In some areas of Texas, we have agreements with private attorneys to handle cases referred by Texas Legal Services Center at a reduced fee.
Can your attorneys handle my criminal case?
No. Our funding sources specifically prohibit us from handling criminal cases.
How long before I can speak with an attorney?
After you call or contact us, you will go through an interview process with an intake specialist to determine if you are eligible to receive our assistance.
If you are eligible for legal assistance you can expect to be contacted by an attorney within 5 to 10 business days after you speak with the intake specialist.
I have been discriminated against as a disabled vet. Can you help with this?
Yes.
