CAP Vets - You Can Help

The month of November always makes us thankful and this year, it certainly holds even more meaning than usual. The word "Thanksgiving" itself is the perfect combination: "thanks" for our blessings and we should be "giving" to others.

In addition to thoughts of our families this month, we are specifically reminded of our nation's veterans who have sacrificed so much. While reviewing Court Assistance Program ("CAP") Intakes, it became evident that on the Forcible Entry & Detainer ("Eviction") Docket, veterans have been vastly underserved, compromising only about 5% of the hundreds of renters that the CAP pro bono attorneys have represented through the years. Initially it seemed that the Veterans Administration ("VA") must have assisted the veterans but upon closer examination, the VA focused on home loans, medical coverage and educational opportunity.

There is no accurate way to determine what happened to the multitudes of veterans who have been subject to eviction; statistics indicate that many became homeless, were hospitalized or tragically, committed suicide. BUT, there is definitely a way to intervene! By providing more CAP volunteers, more renters, especially veterans, can be assisted.

CAP's Mission continues to be to provide pro bono attorneys for as many FED Dockets as possible.

Currently, the majority of the eviction cases are set on the 2, 3 and 4 pm dockets every day EXCEPT Wednesdays. Traditionally, CAP requested volunteers to appear only one afternoon per month but several attorneys make numerous appearances.

PLEASE consider volunteering or if you are personally unable to do so, suggest the Court Assistance Program to friends and colleagues. FREE training is available at the TCBA and you will receive one hour of CLE for viewing the presentation.

If you need additional information, contact me at: bethnellis@cox.net or 918-760-3945 (call or text).

You can help us, help Veterans!