As we commemorate Veterans Day, we want to highlight the impact of the Illinois Armed Forces Legal Aid Network (IL-AFLAN).  Since its launch, IL-AFLAN, a program of the Illinois Equal Justice Foundation, has helped more than 15,000 heroes avoid homelessness, prepare estate plans, get divorced, secure medical benefits, and apply for discharge upgrades.

Heroes like “Charles”, a married father of five who suffers from PTSD and night terrors resulting from his time in combat. Prairie State Legal Services helped Charles secure an additional $2000 in monthly social security disability benefits and $55,000 in back benefits for him and his family.

IL-AFLAN is the only legal aid network in the country that offers services in all areas of civil law, including military specific issues like discharge upgrades and VA benefits appeals, on a statewide basis.  On average, it takes just seven minutes before a caller is speaking with a hotline attorney, who immediately begins the process of diagnosing and solving a caller’s legal problem.

If you know a veteran or service member in need of legal assistance, please encourage them to contact IL-AFLAN at 855.452.3526 or ilaflan.org.