Legal matters

It is against the law to discriminate against workers who have disabilities such as cancer. The national laws, The Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and The Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 protect your rights as a worker. Still, youmay face challenges atwork if you need to take time off for cancer treatment. When you need legal advice, you have options, and almost all of them are FREE:

Legal Insurance Paperwork Assistance (LIPA)

LIPA is the only program in New Mexico providing comprehensive assistance with cancer-related legal, insurance and paperwork issues. Services are available at no charge to any New Mexican coping with cancer.

Contact Stephanie Michnovicz, Cancer Services of New Mexico program manager, 888-668-2766

New Mexico Legal Aid

This program provides free legal help and advice for New Mexico residents age 54 and younger. 901West Alameda St., Suite 20-B 87501, 982-9886, 866-416-1934

New Mexico Bar Association

The Legal Resources for the Elderly Program is a free, statewide helpline for New Mexico residents age 55 and older. LREP staff attorneys provide legal advice and brief services inmost areas of civil law. Two of LREP’s attorneys are fluent Spanish speakers.

The Bar Association also can set up a 30-minute case assessment appointment with a private attorney for $35. The LIPA program also works with the Bar Association, and may be able to arrange fee dismissal.

In addition, the Bar Association holds free legal workshops to learn about powers of attorney, advanced care directives, estate planning and long-term care Medicaid planning. www.nmbar.org 505-797-6005 or 800-876-6657

National Cancer Legal Resource Center

This California program is staffed by attorneys and paralegals who provide free legal assistance tailored to your geographic location. 866-843-2572