(FORT PIERCE, Fla.) - One of our clients came to Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS) after losing her job. Although she was past retirement age, she continued working to cover basic living expenses. At her workplace, a conflict occurred between her and a coworker. She was not the aggressor and had to take cover behind items to avoid injury. Still, she was terminated. She believed age discrimination may have influenced her employer’s decision.
After applying for unemployment benefits, she never received payment. Without answers and unsure of how to move forward, she reached out to FRLS for help. FRLS is a nonprofit law firm that provides free civil legal aid to qualified individuals, families, and vulnerable communities across 13 Florida counties and to farmworkers statewide.
By the time she connected with FRLS, she had started a new job to keep up with rent. Our legal team helped her file an appeal, reviewed her documentation, and guided her through the process.

Her appeal was successful. She was awarded more than $2,000 in unemployment compensation for the weeks she went unpaid. She left with both the financial relief she was owed and the confidence that someone had advocated for her rights.
FRLS supports qualified everyday people facing issues with public benefits, including denials, terminations, and overpayments. Many seniors depend on these benefits after job loss or changes in income. If you or someone you know needs help, call us at 1-888-582-3410.
About Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS):
Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS) is a non-profit law firm that provides free civil legal aid to qualified individuals, families, and vulnerable communities across 13 Florida counties and to farmworkers statewide. Since 1966, FRLS has pursued justice by providing legal services in
housing law, family law, consumer protection, public benefits, elder law, disaster relief, education law, and more, all at no cost to our clients. FRLS collaborates with community organizations and Pro Bono attorneys to deliver quality advocacy, outreach, and education designed to protect the rights of those in need. For over 50 years, FRLS has been a steadfast advocate for justice. Learn more at www.FRLS.org.