ThinkingKap developed ten micro-modules, each lasting 5 to 7 minutes, to educate legal aid providers on the science of OUD, stigma reduction strategies, legal issues faced by individuals with OUD, and advocacy techniques for specific populations. These modules equipped legal aid providers with the necessary tools for improved client advocacy.

Challenge

The Legal Services Corporation (LSC) established an Opioid Task Force to address the civil legal issues faced by individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) and their families. The Task Force aimed to understand these issues better and determine the roles of civil legal aid providers in resolving them. During their investigation, the Task Force identified a significant gap: many legal aid providers lacked a fundamental understanding of the science behind OUD. This deficiency in education impeded their ability to advocate effectively for clients suffering from OUD. Consequently, there was a pressing need to develop specialized training materials that could bridge this knowledge gap and enhance the effectiveness of legal aid services.

Solution

To address these challenges, ThinkingKap developed a comprehensive training solution consisting of ten micro-modules, each lasting between five to seven minutes. These modules were designed to increase legal aid providers’ understanding of the science behind OUD, including medications for treatment and strategies for reducing associated stigma. Additionally, the modules aimed to raise awareness about the diverse legal issues faced by persons with OUD. Special emphasis was placed on highlighting the unique experiences of vulnerable populations such as pregnant and parenting individuals, veterans, Native Americans, and those involved in the justice system. The training also provided practical tools to help legal aid providers advocate more effectively for their clients.

Impact

The introduction of these targeted micro-modules significantly impacted the legal aid community. Legal aid attorneys who participated in the training gained a thorough understanding of the opioid epidemic, including its legal ramifications. The detailed instruction covered essential advocacy strategies and highlighted the specific challenges faced by vulnerable populations affected by substance use disorder. As a result, attorneys were better equipped to handle the complex legal issues associated with OUD clients. The training not only increased their advocacy effectiveness, but also had a broader social impact by ensuring more informed and compassionate legal support for individuals grappling with OUD.