Public Employee Press

POLITICAL ACTION 2012
Community Association meetings
Members get help with legal issues

March meetings of DC 37's Community Associations included attorneys from the union's Municipal Employees Legal Services, who explained the services MELS offers and answered members' questions.

Attendance was high March 28 as the Jamaica, Queens, association met, and Local 372 retiree Beatrice Moody was eager to learn about her rights.

"Most DC 37 members are entitled to prepaid legal services in civil matters at no cost as part of their Health & Security Plan benefits, and that includes spouses and dependent children up to 23 if they are in school," said MELS Systems Manager David Boyd.

Krystel Momplaisir of the DC 37 Political Action Dept., which coordinates the union's nine Community Associations, explained DC 37's political action program and urged members to participate in the May 1 Lobby Day.

MELS Attorney Ralph Chappell spoke about real estate issues, such as reviewing documents for members purchasing homes or condos, and Attorney Andrew Bauman discussed legal issues in renting, including the results of not paying rent. Attorney Sheldon Barasch talked about avoiding debt, emphasizing two rules: Never co-sign a loan and never let other people use your credit card. "You are responsible for every charge on that card," he said.

Attorney Vincent Gagliardi explained the dangers of dying without a will, and Beatrice Moody was convinced. "I don't have a will," she said, "but now I'm going to call MELS at 212-815-1111 to get one prepared."

"Our attorneys were happy to participate in these meetings, because the more information and advice we can get to members, the more we can save folks from legal problems. We were particularly pleased to be able to talk with members right in their neighborhoods at the Community Association meetings, and we want to thank the Political Action Dept. for putting these together," said MELS Director and Chief Counsel Joan Beranbaum.

—Jane LaTour