Hurricane Ian: Resources for Florida Attorneys

Though the storm has passed, the devastating effects of Hurricane Ian will be felt for years. This extends to the Florida legal community. Considering the recent disaster, several organizations have put together resources for Florida attorneys – both for those who need assistance and for those who want to assist.

Here are some resources you can use if you practice in Florida. If you do not practice in Florida but still want to help, scroll to the bottom of the post to find out what you can do.

Resources for Florida Attorneys

The Florida Bar has put together an extensive list of resources Florida attorneys can utilize in light of the recent storm. Resources provided include:

• A free mental health helpline for Florida Bar members
• A technology helpline
• A link to court closures
• A list of free trials for Florida Bar members

In addition to resources for attorneys in need, The Florida Bar has also published a list of organizations that Florida attorneys can lend their legal expertise to. These include:

• FEMA/YLD Disaster Hotline
• Florida Free Legal Answers
• Florida Pro Bono Matters
• National Disaster Legal Aid Advocacy Center

The American Bar Association offers disaster resources for attorneys who need them. Amongst other things, they offer:

• A disaster planning and recovery guide for law firms
• Business continuity resources for law firms
• Numerous past articles from ABA journals covering disaster relief and recovery

Florida Court Closures and Filing Deadlines

The Florida Supreme Court has published a list of Administrative Orders concerning extensions in courts affected by the storm.

Florida CLE Reporting and Hurricane Ian

Since The Florida bar has not stated CLE reporting requirements were affected because of the storm, it is to be assumed that things are business as usual for Florida attorneys. It is best to contact The Florida Bar to find out more information.

In certain circumstances, Florida attorneys may be eligible for hardship waivers if they are unable to practice law due to substantial and material hardship, medical or otherwise. If you think this may apply to you, reach out to the bar directly.

For general, non-hurricane related CLE questions, check out NBI’s Florida CLE Requirements page. It has information on reporting requirements, specialty credits and more.

How to Help if You Don’t Practice in Florida

If you do not practice in Florida but want to help, the American Red Cross has a disaster relief page for Hurricane Ian relief.

If you are interested in donating to relief efforts for animals affected by the storm, the American Humane Society of the United States has a donation page set up.