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The labyrinth of agencies, courts, and laws are often overwhelming and unmanageable for even the most experienced advocate, and simply impenetrable for the average parent. The Children s Law Line is an easily accessible legal resource that can assist callers on a variety of issues. Some questions include:

1. What to do if a parent is not complying with court-ordered child support
2. Whether visitation can be denied
3. How to protect a child whose parent is often under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Services like the Children s Law Line are desperately needed by those with severe budgetary constraints who want to help a child, but are at the mercy of a complex and inflexible legal system.

The program has several positive benefits for callers including:

Calls are answered by a person trained in family law.

1. Common questions are answered immediately and more complex questions are referred to a staff attorney.
2. There is no income screening to access the program.
3. There is no limit for how many times a person can call.

Who can call?

Children, parents, grandparents, other relatives, foster parents, or professionals with a specific question about the law and children may call the Law Line. CLC does not discuss a specific case with a third party without the permission of the person with the legal issue.

What is the process like?

A trained staff member will take some confidential information about the caller and the question. If the person cannot answer the question fully, an attorney will take the call immediately or call back within 24 hours. An attorney reviews all calls by the end of the day to make sure that the caller has received the best information available. Due to the high demand, there may be a wait time, so please stay on the line and we will assist you as quickly as possible.

What can CLC help me with?

The Law Line helps callers understand the legal processes that involve children, such as custody, visitation, guardianship, and abuse and neglect. CLC can also refer callers to other agencies or resources for help with getting an attorney, special education advocacy, and school law.

Is it confidential?

Yes. Nothing regarding your call to the Law Line will be disclosed to a third party without your written consent.

Can I call anonymously?

Sometimes. If you are calling for general information and referrals, such as the address of a court or what agency to call for special education information, we can give you that information without taking your personal information. However, if you are calling with specific questions regarding an ongoing dispute, we will need to take your name and the names of other parties involved. This information is confidential and will not be disclosed to anyone else.

How much does it cost to use the Children's Law Line?

There is no cost to call the Law Line. It is a free service, statewide.

She gave me the most help possible. Thank you for your services, effort, and dedication I learned so much from calling this number. I learned words, terms, phrases that have all helped me so much in court. I am so grateful. - Law Line Caller