Senior Adults Legal Assistance (SALA) is a non-profit elder law office supporting seniors (60 and older) in their efforts to live safely and independently. Since 1973, this community based organization (CBO) has provided an array of legal services: from simple advice and referrals to comprehensive legal representation.

SALA focuses on legal matters commonly impacting seniors. For example, they assist elder abuse victims to obtain restraining orders and to stay safe at home.

SALA helps elders who have Social Security or Medicare/Medi-Cal benefits difficulties. SALA also helps with housing by advocating for senior tenants. Assistance is also available for advance health care directives, powers of attorney, and simple wills. Supervising Attorney Michele D. Schroeder visited Sourcewise to share SALA’s mission. She stated, “At SALA, we see many elders who are in crisis. Some are suffering physical, emotional, or financial abuse. Others face the threat of losing their income or housing. SALA can help stabilize these elders by helping them navigate complex government systems; from the courts to the Social Security Administration. SALA also helps elders plan for future incapacity by preparing planning documents, ensuring that elders’ wishes are followed, and caregivers are given authority to advocate for frail elders. Assisting with a current crisis and planning to prevent a future crisis are both important aspects of the work that SALA does.”

Sourcewise provides funding for Senior Adults Legal Assistance to continue its mission to help seniors with free legal aid. Services are provided through appointments at senior centers throughout Santa Clara County. There are no income qualifications for services.

For more information about the services offered by SALA and other legal resources throughout Santa Clara County, please contact the Community Resource Specialists of Sourcewise: (408) 350-3200, option 1.