We are pleased to describe your legal service benefits, which comprise one of the most comprehensive prepaid legal services plans in the country. Since its first pioneering prepaid legal services plan was introduced in 1975, the Fund's benefits have proved to be an essential contribution to the well-being and peace of mind of thousands of covered members.

The benefit program described in this section includes a number of new improvements designed to make the plan as responsive as possible to your potential needs for legal counsel. As reaffirmed by United States Supreme Court Justice Black in the famous case of Gideon vs. Wainright:

"(The assistance of counsel) is one of the safeguards of the Sixth Amendment deemed necessary to insure fundamental human rights of life and liberty. The Sixth Amendment stands as a constant admonition that if the constitutional safeguards it provides be lost, justice will not 'still be done'."

Because attorneys' services can be so important, we urge you to read this section carefully and keep it handy for future reference. The Fund provides a General Consultation Benefit that allows you to discuss any matter whatsoever with an attorney, as well as a variety of benefits covering specific, more complex legal matters. You are entitled to up to three General Consultations each year with a panel attorney, at no out-of-pocket expense. The legal advice you receive could serve to ease your mind concerning current circumstances and could prevent serious legal problems from developing.

The Social Service Employees Union Local 371 Legal Services Fund holds an established position among the premier providers of prepaid legal services benefits.

In solidarity,
THE TRUSTEES