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Client Self/Team-Help Resources

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You can jump to the Resource Links below if you’ve already read or listened to this introduction regarding the “opportunity” that these charges we are facing are providing you.

Introduction

Self-help Introduction read by AI Voice (Option)

I am an attorney and good at what I do. But what I do is help you and others navigate and address legal problems. Of course, legal problems are seldom just “legal.” They are usually part of a larger package of other issues—substance abuse, driving problems, mental and medical health issues, and other factors like housing, employment, and money. While I wish I had the time and resources to help with all of these other issues, I don’t. And that is frustrating, because I can often get a much better deal from the prosecutor, from probation, and from judges if we can show that the non-legal problems are being addressed.

My job is to handle the complex legal issues. But your job, with the help of your Team, is to address the other cores issues. When we each focus on our role, we can achieve the best possible outcome for your case and, more importantly, for your future. Please use these resources and let me worry about the law.

>Resources

Holistic Defense Services (HDS) is a program within MSPD that focuses on addressing the underlying social, economic, and health issues that contribute to a client’s involvement with the criminal justice system. HDS aims to provide comprehensive support to clients, beyond traditional legal representation, to help them overcome barriers and achieve better outcomes.

  • Here is link to the HDS’s “How To” Guide Page, and are summaries of and links to the various guides directly:
    • Mental Health Crises
      • Like a health crisis, a mental health, alcohol, or drug crisis can be hard for the person experiencing it. It is also hard on their loved ones and their community. In the moment, the person may feel overwhelmed or unable to cope with what is happening. If you or someone you know needs help, here are some resources to assist.
    • Expungement Resources
      • Expunging a conviction can have significant benefits for individuals who have been convicted of various offenses. Here are some resources for expungement assistance.
    • How to Get an ID
      • When you apply for an ID, you have the option to get a regular ID or a Real ID. Starting May 7, 2025, a Real ID will be required to board domestic flights or access federal buildings. Required documents and how to apply for a state ID are covered in our pdf document.
    • How to Get a Birth Certificate
      • A birth certificate is your first legal proof of identity. Birth certificates are necessary for obtaining a social security number, applying for a passport, enrolling in schools, getting a driver’s license, and gaining employment. Here is a pdf document describing how to obtain your Missouri Birth Certificate.
    • How to Reinstate Your Driver’s License
      • If someone’s driver’s license has been suspended or revoked, they might need to go through a process to reinstate it – or, in other words, get their driving privileges back. What to do and how to apply for reinstatement is described in this pdf document.
    • How to Get Your Social Security Card
      • A social security care is often a necessary item when one deals with any agency. Without it, one finds a frustrating experience in obtaining the desired service. How to get your social security card is explained here.
    • How to Apply for Medicaid
    • MO HealthNet is the Medicaid coverage for Missouri’s low income and vulnerable citizens. There are multiple programs which provide access to health care. This pdf document covers what they are and how to get coverage.
    • How to Access Transportation
      • Transportation is a critical need for many, and while there is no single provider for it, there are resources which may provide affordable or free transportation in some areas. Our pdf document covers what they are and how to access it.
    • How To Apply for Disability Benefits
      • Applying for disability benefits is an important decision that can provide financial support when you’re unable to work due to a lasting medical condition. How one does this is described in this pdf document.
    • How to Get SNAP Benefits
      • SNAP, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is the federal program that provides funds to help low- and no-income families purchase food at local grocery stores. SNAP was formally know as food stamps. Eligibility and applying for SNAP is covered in this pdf.
    • How to Get Free Phones and Data
      • People whose income is 135% or less of the federal poverty guidelines might qualify for reduced-cost cell phones, phone service, and a good amount of data with the help of Lifeline and/or the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The pdf document linked here describes the eligibility criteria and how to apply for this program.
    • Library Resources
      • Libraries are for more than just reading a book. Did you know that some provide notary services, can provide help with your GED or homework assignments, and much more. Here’s how to get your library card.
    • How to Apply for Section 8 Housing
      • Section 8 housing in Missouri is a voucher program. It helps families and individuals with lower incomes in Missouri pay for their rent. Eligibility and how to apply for Section 8 Housing is described in this pdf.
    • How to Start Child Support
      • When there’s no legal documentation confirming parenthood, challenges can arise. For example, individuals may struggle to visit their children while incarcerated. Establishing legal parentage can be a complex process. Here’s how to get started in this process.
    • How to Modify Child Support
      • People who pay child support can request modifications, changing the amount they are required to pay, in two ways – either through the courts, or through the Department of Social Services (DSS). This pdf document describes how to modify Child Support.
    • How to Establish Paternity
      • Establishing paternity is a very important step in the legal processes involving families and child support. This pdf describes how to establish paternity.

If there are other “self-help” pages you think might be helpful, let me know by texting: 573-705-9455; or email me at grant.doty@mymopd.com

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