Legal Counsel for the Elderly

Who We Are

Founded in 1975, Legal Counsel for the Elderly (LCE) champions the dignity and rights of vulnerable Washington, D.C. seniors, 60 and older, providing free legal and social work services to those in need — empowering, defending and protecting.  Attorneys represent seniors facing foreclosures, evictions, and consumer fraud. LCE handles Medicaid and Social Security cases, provides benefits checkups to assure that seniors and Veterans are receiving the benefits they are due, prepares Wills and Powers of Attorney, and educates elders in ways to avoid Medicare and Medicaid fraud. LCE also accommodates homebound seniors by providing legal services in their homes. LCE houses the office of the D.C. Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, which advocates on behalf of seniors in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and those receiving home health care. If you are seeking legal help, please contact the Legal Hotline at (202) 434-2120. Please do not visit the LCE office without an appointment.

Who We Serve

Area(s): D.C. Residents Only

Language(s) Spoken

• Spanish / Español

Cirumstances and languages in which interpreters are provided

Interpreters are provided as needed.

Income Guidelines

Income guidelines only apply in cases where LCE provides full legal representation. Your family’s income should be at or below 200% of the poverty level, and asset limits also apply. The income and asset guidelines do not apply for other services, such as the Self-Help Offices, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, and power of attorney seminars. Calls to the hotline for legal assistance, advice and referrals are free.

Is this organization accessible by wheelchair?: Yes

Does this organization provide access for the hearing impaired?: Yes

Eligibility Restrictions

Must be a D.C. Resident, 60+ and meet income eligibility requirements. For Social Security and disability matters, you must be 55.

Type of Help

This group provides the following types of services based on your legal needs and its resources:

• Full Legal Representation
• Brief Advice
• Other