The Legal Risk Detector, developed by Pro Bono Net, is a web-based legal health “check-up” tool that allows adult consumers to screen themselves for risks of the following legal problems: housing, debt, health care, financial exploitation, and elder abuse. The Legal Risk Detector is currently intended for adults age 60+ and adults 18-59 with a disability, but the tool will be tailored for use by professionals in the future.
More than 25 million Americans over age 60 are considered economically insecure, and the Covid-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the well-being of older adults and adults with disabilities.
Low-income older adults face legal risks that can profoundly impact their well-being, including maintaining safe and affordable housing, overcoming debt or financial scams, and navigating healthcare or other public benefits. The Legal Risk Detector is, therefore, designed to comprehensively reach and serve a population that is vulnerable to various forms of elder abuse, but difficult to serve through traditional legal services.
The Legal Risk Detector is user-friendly and enables adult consumers to screen themselves for common legal issues. Once the assessment is completed, a report is generated that categorizes the adult’s risk as “low,” “medium,” or “high.” With informed consent, the report is then sent to Legal Aid Chicago for follow-up and appropriate action.
The Elder Risk Detector tool is coming soon. It is intended for adults aged 60 and older or adults with disabilities aged 18-59 living in Suburban Cook County.
If this doesn’t apply to you, you can find legal information at https://www.legalaidchicago.org/
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