Legal Services for Seniors protects the rights, dignity, and independence of Monterey County residents age 60 and older by providing no-cost legal assistance, advocacy, and education. Our work helps seniors address legal issues that may impact their housing, financial security, health care decisions, and peace of mind.
Every senior deserves a plan that protects their wishes, their home, and the people they love. Through our “Every Senior Needs a Plan” initiative, Legal Services for Seniors provides free, accessible estate planning assistance to low-income older adults throughout Monterey County.
We currently help seniors prepare wills, advance health care directives, and powers of attorney. This year, we hope to expand our services to include simple living trusts for qualifying senior homeowners, particularly those whose home is their primary or only significant asset. Without proper planning, a family home may become tied up in probate, creating added costs, delays, and stress for loved ones.
MCGives! support will help us launch this new service, educate seniors about their options, and provide more older adults with the tools they need to protect their homes, preserve their legacies, and gain peace of mind.
After losing Carol, my beloved partner of 42 years, I was overwhelmed by grief and unable to face the legal paperwork connected to our home. When I received a letter from the County Assessor demanding that I update the ownership records, I froze. It wasn’t just my home—it was our home, built through a lifetime of love and shared dreams. Legal Services for Seniors gave me the compassionate, knowledgeable help I didn’t know existed. My legal advocate walked me through every step with patience, kindness, and dignity. She made an unbearable task possible and helped me move forward without ever making me feel rushed, judged, or alone. When another legal concern arose later, I knew exactly where to turn. Legal Services for Seniors offers more than legal expertise—it provides a safe, human place for seniors to seek help during life’s most vulnerable moments. I will always be grateful.
- Josina M, Monterey
