Medlaw partnership of wny

The MedLaw Partnership of WNY is a collaborative initiative dedicated to addressing civil legal issues that negatively impact patients’ health. Legal challenges can create significant stress and even prevent individuals from receiving necessary medical care. By tackling these health-related legal barriers, the MedLaw Partnership aims to improve both the well-being and health outcomes of the individuals we serve. Our support includes full legal representation, brief advice and consultation, and community-focused education.

• Elder financial and physical abuse

• Employment rights

• Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney

• Health insurance coverage & denials

• Landlord/tenant issues

• Immigration status

• Income maintenance

• Mortgage foreclosure

• Public benefits including SNAP, HEAP & Social Security

• Simple wills

Referrals to the MedLaw Partnership are made directly by healthcare professionals who have been trained to recognize risk factors and common legal issues that may affect their patients' health and well-being.

• Erie County Medical Center

• Kaleida Health

• Western New York Breast Health

  • Our partnership places a special focus on serving individuals with a history of breast cancer. If you are a breast cancer patient or survivor, you are eligible for free legal assistance—regardless of where you receive your medical care.

We have offices located within hospitals, allowing for close collaboration with healthcare teams and easier access for patients in need of legal support.

• Buffalo General Medical Center / Gates Vascular Institute, 100 High Street, Buffalo, NY

• Erie County Medical Center, 462 Grider Street, Snyder Building, Buffalo, NY 14215

• John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital, 818 Ellicott Street, Buffalo, NY 14203

In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association, free legal assistance is now available to both individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or Dementia and their caregivers.

Referrals are made directly by the Office for the Aging in each of the eight counties of Western New York through funding from the New York State Department of Health.

 I am receiving treatment for cancer and I need to take time off work. Can you help me protect my job?

• Yes, the MedLaw Partnership can advise you of your workplace rights and work with you and your employer in the hopes of reaching an accommodation that will allow you to keep your job while you obtain the health treatments you need.

Due to my hospitalizations and treatment, I'm behind on my bills and rent. Can you help me?

• Yes, the MedLaw Partnership can help you determine if you qualify for any benefits, such as public assistance, unemployment benefits, or short-term disability. Obtaining these benefits may help you afford life essentials, such as food and housing. Additionally, we can help you with consumer debt problems by speaking and negotiating with your creditors.

Do you provide representation in a medical malpractice lawsuit or help suing a provider?

• No, the MedLaw Partnership does not provide representation in medical malpractice lawsuits.

• For more information or to see if you qualify for services call toll free at 1-844-700-1872.

• If you would like to discuss a potential partnership with your health organization, please contact Supervising Attorney, Rachel Baldassaro, rbaldassaro@elderjusticeny.org 

• The MedLaw Partnership offers free educational programs to the public on important legal topics that can contribute to health disparities within the community. These sessions aim to raise awareness, empower individuals with knowledge, and help prevent legal issues that negatively impact health and well-being. Please contact our office 716-853-3087 to schedule.