PADD

What is PADD?

Protection and Advocacy for persons with developmental disabilities (PADD) is a federally funded program operated by MO P&A.

If you have a developmental disability and feel you are being abused, neglected or denied your legal rights, we can help you secure the rights and services to which you are entitled.

Who is eligible for PADD program services?

PADD services are available to people . . .

• Who have a severe and chronic mental or physical disability, and
• Onset of disability was prior to age 22, and
• The disability substantially limits a person's abilities in 3 or more of the following life activities:
  • Self Care
  • Learning
  • Self-Direction
  • Economic Self-Sufficiency
  • Language
  • Mobility
  • Independent Living
• OR, a child (birth to age 5) who has substantial developmental delay or specific congenital or acquired conditions with a high probability of resulting in developmental disabilities if services are not provided.

What kind of services does PADD offer?

We have trained information specialists, advocates and legal staff to assist you with problems. We are not psychiatrists, psychologists or social workers. We are not a government agency. We are advocates and lawyers who can work for you. All inquiries are kept strictly confidential.

You may receive the following services:

• Information and Referral - A referral to another agency, with follow-up by our staff to see if you need more assistance
• Professional Assistance - Discussions with you that lead to resolution of the problem(s). Items include: self-advocacy coaching, explaining the service delivery system, etc.
• Administrative Remedies - Appealing your case within an agency or facility which does not involve going to a court of law
• Negotiation/Mediation - Participation in discussions to resolve your problem without the use of administrative or legal procedures
• Legal Services - Legal counsel or representation by an attorney in court.

How can MO P&A help?

MO P&A provides the following services:

• Information about services available through agencies in the community
• Advice to you about your legal rights
• Assistance in resolving disagreements through mediation and negotiation
• Individual advocacy services including assistance with administrative and legal proceedings

What should you do?

Call MO P&A if you or someone you know has been prevented from getting appropriate services, benefits, or treatment because of fear, discrimination, or lack of information about disability rights.

If you want our help:

• Call our Jefferson City office at 573-893-3333 or toll free 800-392-8667, and an information specialist will assist you in applying for our services. TDD users please contact Relay Missouri for access at 800-735-2966.
• Write or email our Jefferson City office and tell us how we can contact you for assistance in applying for PADD services.
• Visit any MO P&A office and someone will assist you in completing an application for PADD services.

Is there a charge for PADD program services?

PADD non-legal advocacy services are free. However, there is a sliding scale fee based on annual gross income for legal representation and litigation expenses.

This program is 100% federally funded by the Administration on Developmental Disabilities.
Grant Award G-0301MOPA26