SERVICES Advocacy CalCLAD conducts systemic and impact advocacy in the courts, the state Legislature, and before governmental agencies and commissions to eliminate communication barriers and discrimination in private business and government. Priority services include health care, education (including special education), law enforcement and telecommunication. Other areas include employment, insurance, transportation and media. Education The Center undertakes both community and professional education. Community education is directed primarily toward the deaf and hard-of-hearing population. Workshops are given and written materials distributed on such topics as discrimination and access rights and how to use our legal system. Professional education, presented through workshops and written materials, is directed primarily toward the legal, health care and social service professions. Information and Referral Legal advice, consultation, and information are provided to deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in issues involving deafness discrimination as well as other issues that are not deafness related, such as consumer or landlord-tenant disputes. When more extensive assistance or representation is needed, CalCLAD will refer individuals to other legal aid organizations, lawyer referral services or private lawyers. CalCLAD also provides information, consultation and technical assistance to private businesses and government agencies to assist them in meeting their access and nondiscrimination obligations and to public and private attorneys representing deaf or hard-of-hearing people. CalCLAD charges a one-time procesing fee for legal advocacy or representation. The fee is $10 for low income clients and senior citizens, and $25 for other clients. Fees may be waived upon request. Funding for CalCLAD comes primarily from the State Department of Social Services and the State Bar of California. CalCLAD also relies on court awarded attorneys’ fees, foundation grants and private donations.
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