Ohio is often considered the epicenter of the Opioid epidemic due to the high rates of overdose deaths and the severe impact on communities across the state. Even as deaths decline, the impact of those losses and the ongoing challenges faced by people still in addiction or recovery continue to deeply affect our communities. The response to this crisis requires a multi-disciplinary approach in which civil legal aid and LASCO play a vital role. That includes helping with issues like housing, jobs, healthcare and family law. In addition to helping individuals, it also means strengthening families and communities impacted by substance abuse.
This Recovery Month, Legal Aid is highlighting the power of second chances. Jessica* for example had a 10-year-old theft charge on her record stemming from her misuse of opiates. She had been in recovery for five years, but the criminal charge made it difficult for her to move beyond an entry level position at her place of employment. Jessica filed for an expungement but was unable to complete the process on her own because of its complexity. Our Equal Justice Works Opioid Crisis Response Fellow was able to step in and help, getting the charge expunged and the $1600 in court costs waived. Jessica was promoted to a managerial position that she aspired to for many years that also brings in additional income for her and her disabled children.
John* came to LASCO because debt-related license suspensions made it challenging for him to find steady work, get to medical appointments and fully participate in his recovery. Like many Ohioans, he faced thousands of dollars in court fines and costs that made progress feel nearly impossible. With Legal Aid’s help, John completed community service, set up payment plans with several courts, and got his license restored even when the system seemed stacked against him.
Our capacity to support people like Jessica and John has grown thanks to a two year fellowship from Equal Justice Works, continued funding from the State of Ohio, and OneOhio Recovery Foundation grants in several of our counties. Funding for our Opioid Crisis Response work has allowed us to connect more closely with community partners, provide training to healthcare providers, social workers and community members on legal interventions, and develop ongoing referral programs for individuals and families in need.
*Client names have been changed to protect their privacy.
