Taylor Porter's Lake Charles office location - 145 East Street - has reopened, and our Lake Charles attorneys and staff have returned to the office. Our Lake Charles office main phone line is again functional at 337.436.7787.

Our Taylor Porter Lake Charles office attorneys can also be reached via email at:

• Rick Norman – rick.norman@taylorporter.com
• Joe Norman – joe.norman@taylorporter.com
• Jud Norman – jud.norman@taylorporter.com

The thoughts of the Taylor Porter family continue to be with all of those affected by the widespread flooding and damage across the Lake Charles and surrounding areas as a result of Hurricane Laura. As the recovery process continues, we will work to share important information with you as you work to rebuild your businesses and homes.

All of our Taylor Porter attorneys remain available to help with any part of your hurricane claims process, and please remember there is a short time fuse on flood claims. Feel free to contact any of our practice group leaders if you have legal questions in the recovery process. We are committed to rebuilding the city, and we are committed to Lake Charles every step of the way in that rebuilding effort.

From Our Friends at the SWLA Economic Development Alliance

Appointments will begin Wednesday, Sept. 23, as the Chamber SWLA/SWLA Economic Development Alliance will provide internet access via hotspot, business assistance and counseling along with McNeese's Small Business Development Center at The SEED Center. Extra computers have been set up for businesses that need assistance filling out online forms for funds through the SBA, LED and the State Treasurer's office.

Visit https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela to start the process with the Small Business Administration (SBA). 

Due to COVID-19, the Business Recovery Center will be by appointment only. Call (337) 433-3632 to set up your appointment.

FEMA Update

Hurricane Laura survivors in Louisiana should register with FEMA even if they have registered with the agency for previous disasters. FEMA considers each disaster to be a separate event so survivors affected by multiple storms may receive help more than once. Survivors in Acadia, Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, Ouachita, Vermilion and Vernon parishes may be eligible for FEMA grants to help with their recovery. Help may include rent, home repair, home replacement and other disaster-related needs such as childcare, medical and dental expenses. Survivors should keep receipts for three years to show how they spent FEMA grants. If you have a homeowner’s or flood insurance policy, file your insurance claim immediately before applying for disaster assistance. 

Visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA helpline 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585 to determine if state, voluntary or local organizations are in your community to address your immediate needs.