South Carolina Association of Justice Offers Legal Resources to Those Impacted by Historic Pee Dee Flooding

The South Carolina Association for Justice is providing a free service to homeowners in the Pee Dee in the aftermath of the flooding caused by Hurricane Florence.  With over 1300 members state-wide, SCAJ is using their combined resources to provide information and assistance to those impacted by the flooding the storm left in its wake. 

“The flooding has been devastating to so many communities.   Thankfully the waters have finally started to recede, and we are pivoting to recovery.  People are now returning home, assessing the damage, and starting the long and costly road to repair or rebuild. We are an association of lawyers who have dedicated our lives to helping those in need.  It is a natural fit for our organization to offer assistance to those who are dealing with the aftermath of the flooding,” said SCAJ President Theile McVey.

The following suggestions and services are being offered by SCAJ’s team of legal experts:

LEGAL RESOURCES IN YOUR COMMUNITY
If any homeowner suspects or has been a victim of price-gouging, scams, or other flood-related crimes, we will connect you with a SCAJ member attorney in your area to assist you. Anyone wanting to use this service can contact the SCAJ office at 803.799.5097 or via email at courtney@scaj.com.

VERIFY YOUR CONTRACTOR FOR INSURANCE CLAIMS
Insurance companies don’t always make it is easy to process claims.  If you are using a company or contractor for home repairs, be sure to verify their licenses in advance of hiring them.  Some policies require licenses and you want to be sure you get the reimbursement that is appropriate under your particular plan.  You can check your contractor’s status at https://www.llr.sc.gov/. 

ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS: DUA & FEMA
There are several programs for assistance.  Those affected should research and find the best fit for their situation.  Two major programs are available through the government. Horry, Dillion, Marion and Marlboro County qualifying residents are eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) funds. Go to dew.sc.gov and click the MyBenefits Login to apply or call 1-866-831-1724 (application deadline is  October 24, 2018).  If you have experienced property damage to your home, contact FEMA to see if you are eligible for assistance. Visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/ and enter your zip code to apply for funding or call 1 (800) 621-3362.

A New Safeguard for Victims of Alcohol-Related Crime

South Carolina Association of Justice Paves Way for Passage of Dram Shop Bill (S.116)

Families across South Carolina have scored a big win with the passage of S.116, known as the Dram Shop bill. The new law requires alcohol-serving businesses or individuals to have liability insurance that could help assist victims who are wounded, paralyzed, or worse due to alcohol-related crimes. The South Carolina Association for Justice (SCAJ) has been working closely with legislative leaders to put this safeguard in place. The organization’s leadership and lobbying team joined Governor Henry McMaster in his office when he signed the bill into law, which went into effect July 1, 2017.

To view the full statement, click here.