AARP establishes legal services plan for seniors

AARP, a nonprofit organization for people age 50 and over, has developed a members-only Legal Service Network.

Made up of more than 1,000 attorneys in more than 40 states and the District of Columbia, the attorneys have been screened, interviewed and have met specific standards of experience and customer services, according to a press release from AARP. The network offers a free half-hour of legal consultation, a 20 percent reduction off the attorney’s usual rates, and fixed fees for simple, straight wills and powers of attorney.

"This program is designed to take the fear out of contacting an attorney," said Jane H. Margesson, senior marketing analyst for the Legal Service Network. "Surveys show that many older Americans do not seek legal advice even when they realize they should, because they don’t know how to find an attorney and are unsure of the costs involved."

For a central New Jersey attorney who will handle wills, probate, car accidents, fall-down injuries or traffic tickets, call (732) 906-2180, or visit www.aarp.org/LSN. For those who prefer to write, the address is LSN Fulfillment, P.O. Box 100084, Pittsburgh, Pa. 15233.