PAIR

What is PAIR?

Protection and Advocacy of Individual Rights (PAIR) is a federally funded program operated by MO P&A.

The primary focus of the PAIR program is protecting the legal rights of people with disabilities guaranteed by federal laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation act, Fair Housing Act, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and the Air Carriers Access Act, as well as state and local laws relating to disability rights.

We are here to help individuals with significant disabilities to secure the rights and services to which they are entitled.

Who is eligible for PAIR program services?

PAIR services are available to people:

• Who have a significant disability
• Who need help to protect their rights related to a disability
• Who are not eligible for other MO P&A operated programs for persons with disabilities

What kind of services does PAIR offer?

You may receive the following services:

• Information and Referral - A referral to another agency, with a 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 included: self-advocacy coaching, explaining the service delivery system, etc.
• Administrative Remedies - Appealing your case within an agency or facility that 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 a court of law

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 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 PAIR services.
• Visit any MO P&A office and someone will assist you in completing an application for PAIR services.

Is there a charge for PAIR program services?

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

The PAIR program is 100% federally funded by the Rehabilitation Services Administration.
Grant Award H240A030026E