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MassLegalHelp

@masslegalhelp.bsky.social

Explaining Massachusetts non-criminal law in plain language. By legal aid programs. https://www.MassLegalHelp.org

170 Posts117 Follower 56 Folgt

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 3d ago

When you apply for a job, it is illegal for most employers to ask about your criminal records (CORI) on job applications before an interview. Learn more at MassLegalHelp: www.masslegalhelp.org/criminal-rec... Information by @bostonlegalaid.bsky.social

Graphic titled “Jobs and CORI.” The top of this graphic features a blue folder containing someone’s police report. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? Employers can only get a copy of your CORI if you allow them to. It is illegal for employers to ask you to give them a copy of a CORI report you got on yourself. They must get their own copy from the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (DCJIS). Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · last wk.

Learn about common parentage concerns, what to do if you disagree about who a child’s father is, and more. www.masslegalhelp.org/children-fam... Information by @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic titled “Parentage.” The top of this graphic features a person who is hugging a child. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? “Parentage” means there is a legal relationship between a parent and their child. Parentage can affect a child’s right to benefits, financial support, and inheritance from their legal parents. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 2w ago

A bond is an amount of money you pay to ICE to be released from immigration detention. Learn more about how to get bond: www.masslegalhelp.org/immigration/... Information by PAIR Project

Graphic titled “Bond in Immigration Court.” The top of this graphic features a person who is reading from a document inside a courthouse. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? The immigration judge will have to answer 3 questions before deciding if you will get a bond: Are you eligible for a bond? Are you a danger to the public? Are you a “flight risk”? Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 3w ago

What if a lender takes your car because you missed a loan payment? Learn more at MassLegalHelp: www.masslegalhelp.org/money-debt/a... Information by Northeast Legal Aid

Graphic titled “Repossession.” The top of this graphic features a car being towed by a tow truck. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? Repossession is when a lender takes your car or other vehicle because you missed loan payments or broke the terms of your loan agreement. Most car loan contracts say that the lender can take your car even if you only miss one payment. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · last mo.

Have questions about appointing a guardian, caregiver, or temporary agent for your child? Check out the newly-updated Guardianship section of our website: www.masslegalhelp.org/children-fam...

Graphic titled “Guardians & Other Caregivers” The top of this graphic features two adults and one child preparing a meal together and they are surrounded by potted plants. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? In this section, learn: How to change or end guardianship of a child, How to plan for a family emergency, How to ask the court for a lawyer in a guardianship case, How to file court forms about guardianship, And more! Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · last mo.

Learn more about the different types of tenancies and your rights as a renter in Massachusetts. Learn more at MassLegalHelp: www.masslegalhelp.org/housing-apar... Information by @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic titled “Types of tenancies.” The top of this graphic features nine windows from different apartments. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? As a renter in Massachusetts, some of your rights and responsibilities depend on: The kind of tenancy you have, and The kind of housing you rent. You also have certain rights no matter what type of tenancy you have. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · last mo.

Here are some things to know and do before you agree to rent an apartment in Massachusetts. www.masslegalhelp.org/housing-apar... Information by @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic titled “Tenants' rights.” The top of this graphic features two people who are linking arms and speaking to another person who is giving them information. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? When you move in, landlords can only charge you for: First and last month’s rent, A new lock and key, and A security deposit that is no more than 1 month’s rent. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · last mo.

Learn how to get ready to move out of your apartment and avoid problems with your landlord. www.masslegalhelp.org/housing-apar... Information by @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic titled “Tenants' rights.” The top of this graphic features a person holding a box and there is a stack of boxes next to them. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? When you move out of your apartment, it is a good idea to prepare ahead of time to avoid problems with your landlord. There are laws about when to tell your landlord you are leaving, security deposits, and more. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 2mo ago

Did you know? If your family gets TAFDC cash assistance, you'll get a $500 clothing allowance for each child getting TAFDC in late August or September. Learn more at MassLegalHelp: www.masslegalhelp.org/public-benef... Information by @masslawreform.bsky.social

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 2mo ago

Know what to expect when you arrive at court, in the courtroom, and before you leave. www.masslegalhelp.org/courts-heari... Information by Boston University Civil Litigation and Justice Program and @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic titled “Going to court.” The top of this graphic features a judge sitting at their judge’s bench in a courtroom. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? When you speak to the judge in the courtroom: Stand up. Call the judge “Your Honor". Make eye contact with the judge. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 2mo ago

Get practical tips on how to prepare for a court hearing when you don’t have a lawyer. www.masslegalhelp.org/courts-heari... Information by Boston University Civil Litigation and Justice Program and @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic titled “Going to court.” The top of this graphic features a person who is wearing a suit and reading from a document while inside a courtroom. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? If you can’t make your scheduled court date or time for a serious reason, you can ask to “continue” or reschedule your hearing.” Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 2mo ago

Looking for legal information in your language on MassLegalHelp? See our lists of content in Portuguese, Haitian Creole, Cape Verdean Creole, Simplified Chinese, and Vietnamese! Visit www.masslegalhelp.org/languages.

Image of "welcome" in different language on multicolored paper, with screenshot of Languages webpage in center.

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 2mo ago

It’s important to know why you are at court. In this article, learn about some common types of court events. www.masslegalhelp.org/courts-heari... Article by Boston University Civil Litigation and Justice Program and @masslawreform.bsky.social

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 2mo ago

Do you have a court date coming up? Read our new three-part guide on going to court, written especially for people who don’t have a lawyer. It covers: - Getting ready - What to expect - Types of court events

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 3mo ago

The Department of Children and Families (DCF) will sometimes get involved if it believes that domestic violence is affecting a child. Read on to find the answers to some common questions about DCF cases. www.masslegalhelp.org/domestic-abu... By CLCM, MLRI, & the Family Preservation Project (FPP)

Graphic titled “DCF and domestic violence.” The top of this graphic features an adult and a child facing each other with a look of concern in each of their faces. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? If DCF opens a case because of domestic violence against you, DCF will call it a case of "neglect." This means that DCF thinks you are "neglecting" your child by letting your child see and hear the abuse. Your DCF worker should try to protect your child and also help you stay safe. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 3mo ago

For all older adults (age 60 or over) and people with disabilities: if you tell DTA about out-of-pocket medical costs, your SNAP benefits may go up. www.masslegalhelp.org/public-benef... Article by @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic titled “SNAP food benefits.” The top of this graphic features someone pushing someone in a wheelchair. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? For all older adults (age 60 or over) and people with disabilities: If you provide DTA proof of health care costs of at least $35 per month, DTA will automatically give you a standard $155 deduction off your income. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 3mo ago

If you have costs for the care of any child under 18 or a disabled adult of any age, and you are working, looking for work, or in school, your family may qualify for more SNAP. www.masslegalhelp.org/public-benef... Article by @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic titled “SNAP food benefits.” The top of this graphic features two people who are caring for one older adult. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? Your family may qualify for more SNAP. Tell DTA about child or dependent adult care costs to get more SNAP. To get the deduction, you need to submit proof of your expenses to DTA. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

Greater Boston Legal Services @bostonlegalaid.bsky.social · 4mo ago

Share your story and make a difference! @masslawreform.bsky.social is looking to talk to MA residents who are losing MassHealth or the Health Connector because of federal policy changes to immigrant eligibility. Contact immigrantvoices@mlri.org to participate!

Immigrant Voices Project
WHAT: New federal law has limited immigrants’ access to MassHealth and ConnectorCare coverage. MLRI is looking to talk to Massachusetts residents who have lost or are at risk of losing their health care coverage because of this new law.
WHY: By sharing your experiences, we can work to make sure all voices are heard and access to healthcare is protected.
WHO: We’re seeking participants who fit into these categories to talk about what the loss of health coverage means to them: MA resident legally residing in the U.S., people with a current, recognized immigration status such as Asylees, Refugees, Permanent Residents, people with work authorization, etc., have lost/are expecting to lose either MassHealth or
ConnectorCare coverage because of new limitations on immigrants’ access to coverage. For example, anyone who lost ConnectorCare Plan Type 1 at the beginning of this year.
Participants may choose to remain anonymous – not use their full name, or use only initials – and will be compensated for their
participation.

PROYECTO “LAS VOCES DE LOS INMIGRANTES"
¿QUÉ?: Una nueva ley federal ha limitado el acceso de inmigrantes a la
cobertura de MassHealth y ConnectorCare. El Instituto de Reforma Legal de Massachusetts quiere hablar con los residentes de Massachusetts que hayan perdido su cobertura de atenciónmédica o que estén en riesgo deperderla por lo dispuesto en estanueva ley.
¿POR QUÉ?: Si comparten sus experiencias, podemos trabajar para asegurarnos de que todas las Voces sean escuchadas y de quese proteja el acceso a la atención médica.
¿QUIÉNES?: Buscamos participantes que se encuentren dentro de las siguientes categorías para hablar de lo que significa para ellos la pérdida de cobertura médica: Residentes de Massachusetts que vivan legalmente en los EE, personas que hayan perdido la cobertura de MassHealth o ConnectorCare o que prevean perderla debido a las nuevas limitaciones en el acceso a la cobertura médica para los inmigrantes.
Los participantes pueden optar por permanecer en el anonimato (no utilizar su nombre completo ousar solo iniciales). Además, recibirán una compensación por su participación.

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 4mo ago

Did you know? You can ask the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to review and change some decisions by asking for a “fair hearing.” Learn more at MassLegalHelp: www.masslegalhelp.org/children-fam... Article by Children's Law Center, @masslawreform.bsky.social, & Family Preservation Project

Graphic titled “Department of Children and Families (DCF).” The top of this graphic features a family of three people who are reading from a document. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? If you disagree with a decision that the Department of Children and Families (DCF) made about you or your family, you may be able to get that decision reviewed. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 4mo ago

Did you know? The Massachusetts state Sanitary Code sets the minimum requirements for rental housing. This Housing Code Checklist will help you figure out if your home meets these requirements. www.masslegalhelp.org/housing-apar... Article by @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic titled “Housing Code Checklist.” The top of this graphic features a family of four people who are expressing excitement while standing inside of a house. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? Everyone has a right to a safe home. In Massachusetts, the state Sanitary Code is the main law that gives tenants a right to decent housing. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 4mo ago

Here are some things to know and do before you agree to rent an apartment in Massachusetts. www.masslegalhelp.org/housing-apar... Article by @masslawreform.bsky.social

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 5mo ago

Learn how to get ready to move out of your apartment and avoid problems with your landlord. www.masslegalhelp.org/housing-apar... Article by @masslawreform.bsky.social

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 5mo ago

Are you a renter planning to sign a lease? Read this MassLegalHelp article to learn more about what should — and shouldn’t — be in your lease. www.masslegalhelp.org/housing-apar... . Article by @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic titled “Lease agreement.” The top of this graphic features a person looking at a document that has a picture of a house on it. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? If you have a written lease, both you and your landlord must sign it. Within 30 days of signing it, the landlord must give you a copy. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 5mo ago

Having trouble reaching the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) on the Assistance Line? Check out these tips on MassLegalHelp. www.masslegalhelp.org/public-benef... Article by @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic titled “DTA Assistance Line.” The top of this graphic features a person taking a phone call. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? It has been extremely hard to reach a SNAP worker because the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) does not have enough SNAP caseworkers. There are other places you can contact to get help from the DTA. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 5mo ago

Do you need help to pay for your phone and internet bills? The federal government pays a part of your monthly phone or internet charges to certain companies through a program called Lifeline. Learn more about Lifeline: www.masslegalhelp.org/public-benef... Article by @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic titled “Lifeline.” The top of this graphic features a person using a laptop with a phone symbol and internet connection symbol on either side of them. Below this photo is text that says, “If you qualify for the Lifeline program, Lifeline gives you up to $9.25/month for internet services or combined phone-internet monthly services. Some companies that accept Lifeline offer free cell phones. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 6mo ago

Do you have a medical bill that you can't afford to pay? Read this MassLegalHelp article to learn more about paying medical bills and dealing with medical debt. www.masslegalhelp.org/health-disab... Article by @hlamass.bsky.social (Health Law Advocates)

Graphic titled “Medical Bills and Debt.” The top of this graphic features a person holding a stack of papers and reading them. Below this photo is text that says, “Did you know? If you get a medical bill that you can’t afford, you have options. Sometimes the doctor or hospital is not allowed to charge you. Or if your insurance doesn’t want to pay for a service, you can appeal their decision. There are also financial assistance programs. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 6mo ago

Are you looking for mental and behavioral health services, like help with substance or drug use, or stress-related issues? Or are you wondering what types of behavioral health services MassHealth covers? Learn more: www.masslegalhelp.org/health-disab... Article by @masslawreform.bsky.social

Graphic showing an image of two people sitting across from each other having a conversation, one of them has a clipboard. Text at the top says “Mental health coverage.” Below that is text that says, “Did you know? MassHealth covers mental health and substance use disorder treatment for a crisis or on an ongoing basis. For people with the most serious mental health needs, Department of Mental Health (DMH) provides supplemental services. Mass Legal Help. Massachusetts Legal Information.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 6mo ago

Did you know? As a Massachusetts tax filer, you may be eligible for several state and federal tax credits. Get help filing your taxes and check your eligibility for these credits on findyourfunds.org, a site from community organizations and legal services in Massachusetts.

A graphic showing a person using a laptop and text that says “Did you know? The federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), MA Earned Income Credit (EIC), and MA Child and Family Tax Credit are all ways to get money back from the government when you file taxes. Learn more and check if you’re eligible at: FindYourFunds.org.”

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 6mo ago

If you lose your job, you may be able to get Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits in Massachusetts. You may also qualify for certain health insurance and job training benefits while you are unemployed. Learn more: www.masslegalhelp.org/employment-u... Article by @bostonlegalaid.bsky.social

Graphic with a blue box at the top with text that says “I lost my job. Can I get Unemployment Insurance in Massachusetts?” Below that, there is a text box that says, “Whether you can get Unemployment Insurance depends on the reason your job ended, if you’ve been paid enough to qualify for benefits, and if you are ready and able to work.” Image in the center is a person sitting on a chair with a stressed look on their face. Text at bottom reads: Learn more at MassLegalHelp.org. Our content is written and reviewed by legal aid programs, lawyers, and community partners.

MassLegalHelp @masslegalhelp.bsky.social · 7mo ago

If you've lost food you bought with SNAP during the recent snowstorm, you can still request replacement SNAP benefits. You have 10 days after the food loss to report it. Learn more: www.masslegalhelp.org/public-benef... Article by @masslawreform.bsky.social

Replacement SNAP benefits flyer: https://www.masslegalhelp.org/sites/default/files/2025-07/Replacement%20SNAP%20KYR.pdf