Legal & Advocacy

Florida Rural Legal Services – Lakeland

Free civil legal help for low-income residents: housing, benefits, family, and more. Call or visit the website to find the right office and intake step.

863-688-7376

Public Defender – 10th Judicial Circuit

Criminal defense for those who can’t afford an attorney.

863-534-4200

Disability Rights Florida

Protection and advocacy for people with disabilities, including mental illness.

1-800-342-0823

Mental Health America – Affiliate Finder

Find Mental Health America affiliates in Florida through the national directory for local support and advocacy.

Florida Behavioral Health Association

Champions peer integration and supportive behavioral health policy.

DCF Background Screening Exemptions

Apply for an Exemption from Disqualification (F.S. Ch. 397 & 435) for people in recovery with background barriers. Call or email the Background Screening unit directly.

850-300-4247

hqw.bgs.backgroundscreening@myflfamilies.com

Florida Abuse Hotline

Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of children or vulnerable adults, 24/7.

1-800-962-2873