Shore Legal Access

When we met Michelle* she was distraught over the case her landlord had filed saying she had breached her lease and should be evicted. Michelle was positive she hadn’t done anything in violation of her lease and couldn’t understand why this was happening. She was terrified about what could happen. Michelle had several young children and no safe place to go if they were evicted. Shore Legal Access’ housing attorney and Michelle worked together to get the issue resolved, leading to dismissal of the case.

Unfortunately, the challenge Michelle and her children faced was not unusual. Over 30% of the people threatened with eviction are under age 15. The average eviction filing rate for counties on the Eastern Shore is 25%, more than three times that national average. Having legal representation improves outcomes for tenants, and for landlords too. Everyone gets a better result.

Knowing your rights as a tenant can make a big difference and coming to court on the scheduled date is key. Did you know that tenants can’t be evicted without a court order and that tenants have the right to defend themselves against eviction or subsidy termination? Legal representation helps tenants and landlords negotiate agreements such as repayment plans and getting necessary repairs.

Legal challenges can be painful, and are often invisible. People frequently feel alone and aren’t sure who they can reach out to for help. Shore Legal Access provides representation for financially qualifying tenants and makes it easy to get assistance. Tenants with questions or who just want to know what their rights can get a free legal consultation over the phone. Shore Legal Access attorneys also represent tenants in court for failure to pay rent and other landlord tenant matters.

Our attorneys are available for same-day representation at the Caroline District Court on Friday afternoons, when the rent docket is typically scheduled.