TSTA has identified attorneys in most areas of the state who have agreed to handle certain personal legal matters at a reduced rate. Normally, most attorneys charge a consultation fee even if the lawyer does not ultimately take your case. In the TSTA Attorney Referral Program, though, members may receive two, free 30-minute consultation sessions with a TSTA referral attorney during any membership year (from Sept. 1 - Aug. 31). During the two free sessions, you may discuss any legal matter in the area(s) in which the attorney has agreed to provide advice.

If after the free consultation you would like to hire the lawyer to provide representation in a personal legal matter, TSTA members in most areas of the state may have specific legal work performed in the following areas at a 30% reduction of the participating attorneys' normal fees.

Family Law: You can hire a TSTA referral attorney for representation in a divorce, custody, child support, guardianship, adoption, paternity, or name change.

Wills and Estates: A participating attorney can prepare your will, assist with estate planning, provide legal assistance if you are named the executor or administrator of an estate, or offer legal counsel in guardianship proceedings.

Criminal Defense: You can receive legal representation for traffic or other criminal allegations investigated by school district or municipal police, or a prosecuting authority.

Real Estate: Participating attorneys will provide assistance with the purchase or sale of residential property, disputes with landlords, property line controversies, and problems with zoning laws or land use regulations.

Consumer Protection: Participating attorneys will provide assistance for disputes with creditors or finance agencies and proceedings with retailers concerning defective merchandise.

Participating attorneys must agree to discuss fees before they render services. They must be willing to accept payment of their fees by installment payment plan or by credit card and they must be willing to meet before and after school.

As a TSTA member, your spouse, and dependent children may also receive these discounted services from participating attorneys.

What is not covered?
Problems such as business dealings, bankruptcies, and preparation of a defense in Internal Revenue Service income tax matters are not covered under the 30% discount. Participating attorneys have the right to decline representation due to a professional conflict, lack of merit to a case, or other ethical obligations. Participating attorneys are not permitted to represent a member in any matter in which the adverse party is TSTA, NEA, NEA affiliate, or another NEA member -except in separation or divorce proceedings. Of course, court costs, filing and service fees, and attorney out-of-pocket expenses are not discounted. The areas of law described above may not be covered in all parts of the state.