Office Locations Boston, Massachusetts Springfield, Massachusetts South Hadley, Massachusetts Pittsfield, Massachusetts Worcester, Massachusetts Johnstown, Rhode Island

The following is a brief description of the legal services and benefits provided at no cost to eligible UFCW Local 1459 participants. A more complete Summary Plan Description is available for eligible participants by contacting the Fund Office at 1-800-634-2700. To verify eligibility or to utilize these benefits, call the Legal Service Provider 1-800-638-7700.

Unlimited Advice and Consultation
By telephone or by appointment at the Legal Plan Office most convenient to the Participant. This includes free legal advice and direction on all legal matters, including those that are not specifically covered under the Plan.

Preparation of Last Will and Testament

• For the participant and spouse of the participant (unlimited number of wills, excludes tax related matters)
• No limit to the type of will
• Codicils (unlimited number)

Preparation of Simple Legal Documents

• General Power of Attorney
• Contract for the sale or purchase of personal property
• General Release
• Authorization for the release of information, etc.
• Change of Name

Review and Explanation of Legal Documents

Administrative Law

• Social Security Disability Application
• Social Security Disability Reconsideration

Discounts on All Non-covered Legal Services, as follows:

• In matters that are not billed on an hourly basis, there will be a 20% reduction from the customary fee charged by the Plan attorneys for such service.
• In matters that are billed on an hourly basis, there will be a maximum rate of $75.00 per hour for all cases opened after July 1, 1998.

24-Hour Emergency Hot-Line Number

• Call 1-800-638-7700

Free Notary Service

Probate and Administration of Estates

• Assistance in probate of all estates at 75% of statutory fee allowable or if no statutory fee, 75% of the customary charge.

Service of an Attorney

• If an eligible Participant requests services, and that Participant is not located within 30 minutes of driving to the closest participating attorney, that Participant can recover legal services from any attorney of their choice. However, that Participant must first contact the Legal Service Provider and receive authorization to recover such services. Under these circumstances the Plan shall be responsible for a maximum fee of $250 per legal matter.

Includes All Covered Benefits Listed in the Part Time & Full Time Plan, plus the following:

Real Estate Matters

• Representation of buyer or seller at settlement of primary residence of the Participant, including preparation of all legal documents but excluding title search.
• Review and preparation of contract for the sale or purchase of Participant's primary residence.
• Representation as tenant in landlord and tenant disputes involving primary residence.
• Assistance in application for homestead exemption where applicable.

Consumer Problems

• Defense in the States' Lowest Court of initial jurisdiction (including court appearance)
• Excessive interest and late charges
• Debt collection actions
• Garnishments
• Furniture and other personal repossessions
• Advice regarding consumer rights and problems with credit ratings