CORT First Friday Webinar - Disasters, Disruptions, and Due Diligence: Civil Legal Aid Preparedness for Whatever Comes Next

Civil legal aid organizations are often called upon to respond when disaster strikes—but effective response starts long before the emergency. This session will explore how legal aid programs can build practical, sustainable disaster preparedness structures that support both community-facing legal needs and internal staff safety. Presenters will discuss why disaster planning matters, how to begin developing protocols, and how funder expectations, partner agency collaboration, and real-world experiences can shape an organization’s approach. The session will also examine the difference between natural and non-natural disasters, including how existing disaster procedures can be adapted for events such as building fires, utility shutoffs, displacement, workplace safety concerns, and threats of violence. Participants will leave with lessons learned, practical starting points, and resources to help their organizations create or strengthen disaster preparedness teams, policies, checklists, and response plans.

 

Presenters: 

Marianne Conrad, Managing Attorney, Indiana Legal Services (ILS),

Andrea Rossi, Executive Director, and

Brian Smith, COO of Legal Services of Eastern Michigan (LSEM).