THE MISSION of Disability Rights DC at University Legal Services (DRDC) is to ensure that District of Columbia residents with disabilities have the legal rights to which they are entitled, including the right to be free from harm, the right to individual choice and the right to full inclusion in the community.

The following are the priorities and objectives for the Protection and Advocacy Program for Assistive Technology (PAAT) for 2022:

Ensure that people with disabilities receive access to assistive technology that meets their needs and promotes their choices and inclusion in community life.

1. Advocate for people with disabilities to obtain properly fitted wheelchairs and other durable medical equipment and assistive technology that maximizes their independence through the DC Medicaid Program and other DC government programs.
2. Advocate for full access for people with disabilities using assistive technology and other accommodations at polling places, governmental facilities, and public accommodations including health care facilities.

CASE SELECTION CRITERIA

DRDC accepts cases related to protecting the legal and human rights of individuals who reside in the District of Columbia who have disabilities that fall within the aforementioned priorities.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

While Disability Rights DC (DRDC) at University Legal Services (ULS) recognizes that every situation is important, please note that case acceptance is dependent upon available resources, including staff time. If your case is not accepted and you wish to file a grievance, please submit your grievance in writing to ULS’ Executive Director. Current clients may also submit a grievance to the Executive Director about the quality of DRDC’s representation and regarding a decision to close a case. In addition, an individual who receives mental health or other services, his/her family members or representatives may also submit a grievance regarding DRDC’s advocacy on behalf of people with disabilities and role as the DC protection and advocacy program.   If requested, an individual may lodge an oral grievance with a DRDC staff member who shall put the grievance in writing and submit it to the Executive Director. The Executive Director may be reached at:

Jane Brown, Executive Director
University Legal Services
220 I Street, N.E., Suite 130
Washington, D.C. 20002
(202) 547-0198 Phone
(202) 547-2662 Fax
(202) 547-2657 TTY

The Executive Director shall respond in writing within thirty (30) days of receipt of a grievance from any client or prospective client, or community member who has an interest in the operation of the protection and advocacy program.

A grievant may appeal the Executive Director’s decision to the ULS Board of Directors within ten (10) days of the written decision of the Executive Director. The decision of the ULS Board of Directors shall be final and not subject to further appeal or review. Client confidentiality shall be maintained.

The Executive Director shall report grievances to the Board of Directors annually.