As a member of BALS’ Centralized Telephone Intake (CTI) Unit, I have the privilege of assisting the program in its very important mission of “Preserving Independence, Hope and Dignity” for low-income people living in Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, Manatee, and Sarasota counties. For many of our clients, their initial appointment with BALS is scheduled through our CTI Unit.
Those of us who conduct intake appointments strive to properly screen clients for program eligibility, identify legal issues, provide appropriate legal advice and counsel, and refer cases expediently for further action, to be handled with the resources available through BALS and our regional partners. We are guided and supported by our experienced and dedicated Team Leaders.
Every applicant has his or her own unique story. No client’s case is the same as any other. (On the rare occasion when we begin to think one is, we quickly learn otherwise.) We have to listen very carefully. There is a lot of information and facts we have to gather in a limited amount of time. There may be deadlines involved. It is crucial that we provide as much legal advice and information to our clients as possible because some are experiencing a crisis that requires immediate attention.
From that initial call forward, the entire BALS team continues to work tirelessly with our clients to help them achieve their goals and to provide every client with the professional advocacy skills, compassion, and focus that each deserves.
Some say, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Along those lines, we at BALS believe, “It takes a team to preserve independence, hope and dignity.” I am proud to be part of the BALS team.
Submitted by Lois Sears, Centralized Intake Attorney, Family Law
