HAMESH DAAC CLIENT CONTRACT

This section provides a plain language overview of the agreement. The full legal details follow below.

• What this is: An agreement between you and Hamesh for advocacy services

• Services covered: Education, medical, workplace, and legal advocacy support

• Payment: Initial 20% deposit required before work begins, with remaining payments as agreed

• Communication: Regular, honest communication is essential for quality service

• Privacy: Your information is protected through encryption and compliance with privacy laws

• Cancellation: Hamesh knows that life happens. No fee for cancellation but Hamesh does ask for transparency and active communication.

• Code of conduct: Mutual respect required; harassment will not be toleratedon text goes here

Hamesh provides accessibility and advocacy services in four main areas that can be found here: https://www.hameshdaac.com/services-for-individuals

3.1 Initial Communication and Service Offer

Hamesh offers a virtual, 30 min onboading call to learn more about you and discuss your needs. A service offer and plan will be sent via email after this call.

3.2 Service Plan

Following the onboarding call, Hamesh will provide a customized service plan outlining recommended services, timeline, and cost estimates.

3.3 Commencement of Services

Services will commence once:

• This agreement is signed

• The initial payment (20% of total estimated cost) is received

• Any required intake forms are completed

4.1 Fee Structure

Fees are determined based on the scope of services required and the Client's position on our sliding scale, based on gross annual household income.

4.2 Sliding Scale

Hamesh offers services on a sliding scale based on financial need. Current sliding scale rates can be found at: https://www.hameshdaac.com/sliding-scale

4.3 Initial Payment

A non-refundable deposit of 20% of the total estimated service cost is required before work begins.

4.4 Payment Plans

• Payment plans are available and will be documented in writing

• All payment plans must be agreed upon before services commence

• Changes to payment plans must be requested in writing prior to the payment due date

4.5 Invoicing

• Invoices will be sent according to the agreed payment schedule

• All invoices are due upon receipt unless otherwise specified

• Recurring invoices will be issued as agreed in the payment plan

4.6 Late Payments

• Services may be suspended if payments are more than 14 days late

• Client must communicate any payment difficulties before the due date

4.7 Payment Methods

Hamesh accepts credit/debit cards, electronic funds transfers, and other methods as specified in the service plan.

5.1 Response Times

Hamesh aims to respond to all Client communications within 2 business days, with urgent matters addressed within 24 hours when possible.

5.2 Communication Methods

Communication methods (email, phone, text, video) will be established at the beginning of the service relationship.

5.3 Client Responsibility

The Client agrees to:

• Respond to Hamesh communications in a timely manner, usually within 3 business days. This allows Hamesh to best address your needs. If you need a different communication timeline, please be sure to let Hamesh know.  

• Provide accurate and complete information

• Notify Hamesh of any changes in circumstances that may affect services as soon as possible

• Communicate openly about needs, concerns, and financial constraints

• Discuss needed accommodations and points of discomfort to ensure effective communication.

5.4 Transparency

The more transparently you communicate your needs, challenges, and circumstances, the more effectively Hamesh can provide assistance. Honesty and openness are essential to quality advocacy.

6.1 Information Protection

Hamesh implements industry-standard safeguards to protect Client information, including:

• End-to-end encrypted communications when available

• Encrypted file storage systems

• Password-protected client portals

• Secure document sharing protocols

6.2 Compliance with Privacy Laws

Hamesh complies with all applicable privacy laws, including:

• Washington My Health My Data Act (MHMDA)

• Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) standards where applicable

• State data protection regulations

6.3 Information Use

Client information will only be used for:

• Providing contracted services

• Internal record-keeping

• Communicating with third parties as explicitly authorized by Client

6.4 Data Retention

Client records will be retained for a period of 7 years after the conclusion of services, after which they will be securely destroyed unless other arrangements are made.

6.5 Third-Party Disclosure

Hamesh will not disclose Client information to third parties unless:

• Explicitly authorized in writing by the Client

• Required by law or court order

• Necessary to prevent imminent harm (as required by mandatory reporting laws)

7.1 Scheduling

Appointments will be scheduled based on mutual availability using Hamesh's scheduling system.

7.2 Cancellations

• 48+ hours notice: No cancellation fee

• 24-48 hours notice: 50% of appointment fee may be charged

• Less than 24 hours notice: Full appointment fee may be charged

• Exceptions will be made for emergencies and unavoidable circumstances, or as negotiated in an accommodation plan prior to services offered

7.3 Rescheduling

Hamesh will make reasonable efforts to reschedule appointments when necessary.

8.1 Mutual Respect

Both parties agree to interact with respect, courtesy, and care. The complete code of conduct can be found at: https://www.hameshdaac.com/transparency-statement

At Hamesh, we value your experiences and are committed to providing personalized support for your accessibility needs. To ensure our professional relationship remains effective and beneficial:

1. Focused Consultation: Our sessions will focus on your specific accessibility goals and practical solutions. While understanding context is important, we request that discussions remain relevant to the services being provided.

2. Appropriate Disclosure: We recognize that disability and accessibility concerns often intersect with personal experiences. Please share information that is relevant to your accessibility needs, while being mindful that our staff are not licensed mental health professionals.

3. Emotional Support Boundaries: If you find yourself needing extensive emotional support or processing of traumatic experiences, we may suggest referrals to qualified mental health professionals who can provide appropriate care alongside our accessibility services.

4. Mutual Respect: We commit to listening with empathy and respect. We ask that communication remain collaborative and solution-focused to best serve your accessibility needs.

5. Additional Resources: Upon request, we can provide referrals to mental health professionals experienced in disability-related concerns who may serve as valuable additions to your support team.

By maintaining these boundaries, we can ensure that our expertise remains focused on effectively addressing your accessibility needs while supporting your overall wellbeing.

8.2 Prohibited Behavior

Hamesh does not tolerate from clients, team members, representatives or contractors:

• Harassment or discrimination based on any characteristic

• Abusive language or behavior

• Threats or intimidation

• Repeated violation of boundaries

8.3 Termination for Conduct Violations

When utilizing these Hamesh services, clients and partners are expected to do the same and Hamesh reserves the right to terminate services without refund if these values are not upheld in action, words, or care. Clients and partners will receive at least one warning before they are no longer able to participate in the Hamesh network. 

9.1 Non-Legal Services

Hamesh provides advocacy and support but does not provide legal representation or licensed legal advice. Services focus on strategies, education, and support.

9.2 Non-Medical Services

Hamesh provides medical advocacy but does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or healthcare services. Recommendations should be reviewed with licensed healthcare providers.

9.3 Results Not Guaranteed

While Hamesh commits to providing quality advocacy, specific outcomes cannot be guaranteed due to factors outside Hamesh's control.

10.1 Service Modifications

Adjustments to the service plan can be made by mutual agreement, with corresponding fee adjustments.

10.2 Termination by Client

The Client may terminate services at any time by providing written notice. Prepaid fees may be partially refundable as outlined in section 10.4.

10.3 Termination by Hamesh

Hamesh may terminate services if:

• The Client violates this agreement

• Hamesh determines it can no longer effectively serve the Client's needs

• The Client fails to make payments as agreed

• The Client-provider relationship becomes unproductive or harmful

10.4 Refunds Upon Termination

• Services completed: No refund

• Services partially completed: Prorated refund may be issued at Hamesh's discretion

• Initial 20% deposit: Non-refundable

Administrative fees may be deducted from any refund

11.1 Professional Judgment

Hamesh exercises professional judgment but cannot guarantee specific outcomes.

11.2 Limitation of Liability

Hamesh's liability is limited to the amount paid for services.

11.3 Third-Party Actions

Hamesh is not liable for the actions or decisions of third parties, including educational institutions, healthcare providers, employers, or legal systems.

13.1 Entire Agreement

This document constitutes the entire agreement between parties.

13.2 Severability

If any provision is found invalid, the remainder of the agreement remains in effect.

13.3 Modification

Modifications to this agreement must be in writing and agreed to by both parties.

14. ACCESSIBILITY

14.1 Format Availability

This agreement is available in alternative formats upon request, including:

• Large print

• Screen reader optimized versions

• Audio recordings

• Simplified language versions

• Other formats as needed

14.2 Comprehension Support

Hamesh will provide clarification of any terms upon request and ensure understanding before signature.