During the current coronavirus global health crisis, residents throughout the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area are dealing with legal matters relating to COVID-19 and beyond. In fact, many of these issues are likely to persist after we flatten the curve. Today, and in the near future, the greatest areas of questions and need for legal services will be employment law, wills and estate planning, and landlord tenant disputes.

Another area where the need for legal assistance may arise includes from those seeking protection from abuse and other domestic relations matters. As states order citizens to "shelter in place" for public safety, some fear individuals facing domestic violence situations place themselves at higher risk by being confined at home with their abusers. Job loss or work from home situations could also add to the stresses, leading to increased violence in the home. The prospect of domestic violence related legal incidents have attorney and legal advocacy organizations on high alert.

Many of our friends, neighbors and loved ones throughout our community may have to make the difficult decision to access legal assistance while this pandemic continues. Although this unprecedented worldwide crisis will create additional legal challenges, it is also important residents do all they can to protect themselves during this time by taking a few steps:

• Make sure that you and your family members have your affairs in order. Have a will. Have a power of attorney so that another family member can make financial or medical decisions for you should you become incapacitated.
• Be vigilant about your finances. In difficult times, the scammers will try to take advantage of the unwary. Monitor your credit report and accounts.
• As an employee, know your rights. You may be eligible for short term disability if you become ill. There are other benefits available, including unemployment compensation, if you lose your job as a result of the economic downturn.

To help those who undoubtedly need legal advice and navigate their rights during the current health crisis, The Philadelphia Bar Association's Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS) remains open and available to everyone in the Philadelphia area. Residents can speak to a Philadelphia Bar Association staff attorney—for free—who can assist them with a referral to an attorney in private practice for legal advice regarding COVID-19 or other matters. For instance, attorneys referred through this service are prepared to help residents navigate the new 2019 tax deadlines and the details about the federal stimulus and financial support recently signed into law by the president.

Lawyer referrals are available any day and time at www.needalawyernow.com. There is no fee to request a referral. Once referred, the attorney in private practice has agreed to provide a 30-minute consultation for a small, set fee of $35. If callers do not need an attorney or cannot afford one, they will be directed to a legal service organization, agency or other resource for assistance.

The Philadelphia Bar Association created the lawyer referral service in 1948 to address the demand for legal services in the boom following World War II. Since then, more than 1 million people have contacted LRIS for help with their legal problems. In fact, the program has grown to become one of the largest public service initiatives in Philadelphia while also being a leader for other programs across the country. Lawyers who accept referrals through LRIS must be in good standing, insured and have the necessary practice experience.

Now more than ever, it is important we come together as a community to help one another. The Lawyer Referral and Information Service program is a free community service for all Philadelphia-area residents to access and seek assistance. We invite our residents who need legal help to review our tips above and reach out so we can connect them to the support they need during this global crisis.

Charles J. Klitsch is the Philadelphia Bar Association's director of public and legal services. The Philadelphia Bar Association, founded in 1802, is the oldest association of lawyers in the United States. With more than 200 years of dedicated service to stand on, the Philadelphia Bar Association is firmly rooted in the Philadelphia community as a steady and reliable bellwether. LRIS is available by calling 215-238-6333 Monday through Friday between 9 a.m.-5 p.m.