Free Legal Help: Legal Advice and Referral Clinics
Eligibility: Accepts tenants from any city or county
2-1-1 is available throughout the U.S. and in many parts of Canada by phone, text, and web. A toll-free call to connects you to a community resource specialist in your area who can help you find services and resources that are available to you locally and provide critical services that can improve... continue reading
Eligibility: USA and parts of Canada.
Affordable Housing Advocates (AHA) provides free legal representation in impact housing and tenants' rights cases in the city and county of San Diego through two projects:
Eligibility: Go to: http://www.lawhelpcalifornia.org/CA/index.cfm Does not generally serve Section 8 tenants. Section 8 tenants should go to Legal Aid.
*No immigration status requirement - open to undocumented people.
The Affordable Housing Network’s purpose is to preserve and expand the supply of housing affordable to low-income people in our country through a program of education, empowerment, coordination, and support. Founded in 1987, AHN members include grassroots individuals and community organizations... continue reading
ALRP’s mission is to help people with HIV/AIDS maintain or improve their health by resolving their legal issues. ALRP accomplishes this mission by providing free and low-cost legal services (Education and assistance) to people with HIV/AIDS in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Eligibility: HIV positive. Call for more information.
The Alameda County Bar Association Volunteer Legal Services Corporation (VLSC) will hosts this free legal clinic once per month on the first Saturday.
Eligibility: This is a free service available to anyone, regardless of residence or income.
Alameda Renters Coalition (ARC) is an alliance of Alameda renters and supporters advocating and organizing for protections to stabilize our community and help keep Alamedans in their homes.
Updated 10/31/21_EE
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed.
Serve tenants in San Francisco Bay Area (also a small number of cases in San Mateo, Alameda, and San Jose) providing eviction defense, representation at the SF Rent Board and affirmative lawsuits for wrongful/constructive eviction,lock-outs, tenant harassment & failure to provide habitable... continue reading
Eligibility: provide sliding scale
Small community law firm with offices in the Mission District of San Francisco and in downtown Oakland. We represent tenants in affirmative lawsuits against landlords for bad housing conditions / habitability, wrongful eviction, lockout, fires, injuries, discrimination, and harassment. Free... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed.
The mission of Advancing Justice - ALC is to promote, advance, and represent the legal and civil rights of Asian and Pacific Islander (API) communities. Recognizing that social, economic, political and racial inequalities continue to exist in the United States, Advancing Justice - ALC is committed... continue reading
Eligibility: Low income, underserved immigrants in the San Francisco greater bay area region.
Non-profit legal services organization
Eligibility: Low income for representation
Our mission is to advocate for civil rights, provide legal services and education, and build coalitions to positively influence and impact Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders and to create a more equitable and harmonious society.
The Asian Pacific American Legal Center, a... continue reading
Eligibility: Must be of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander descent.
Tenant lawyer working in Santa Clara County. Is your Landlord a Slumlord? Have you made requests for repairs that have been ignored by your Landlord? Have you been threatened with an eviction? California law protects tenants and you may be entitled to recovery.
BASTA operates exclusively for charitable purposes by fighting for freedom, justice, and equality through the delivery of cultural-sensitive social, professional, legal, and educational services to those in need.
BASTA operates exclusively for charitable purposes by fighting for freedom, justice, and equality through the delivery of cultural-sensitive social, professional, legal, and educational services to those in need.
BASTA operates exclusively for charitable purposes by fighting for freedom, justice, and equality through the delivery of cultural-sensitive social, professional, legal, and educational services to those in need.
Eligibility: BASTA is the only group in Los Angeles County that provides direct representation to tenants with no restrictions (citizenship, financial, etc.) on who we can help.
Bay Area Legal Aid - Alameda<https://www.tenantstogether.org/resources/bay-area-legal-aid-alameda> County Regional Office Bay Area Legal Aid provides free civil legal advice, counsel and representation to low-income people living in the Bay Area. The Alameda County Office serves residents of... continue reading
Eligibility: Some income restrictions.
Eligibility: Some income restrictions
Bay Area Legal Aid provides free civil legal advice, counsel and representation to low-income people living in the Bay Area. The Richmond office serves residents of Contra Costa County.
Eligibility: Low income and very low income individuals and families.
Phone: (510) 250-5270 x925
Eligibility: Some income restrictions.
Eligibility: Some income restrictions.
Eligibility: Some income restrictions.
BayLegal provides free legal assistance to eligible clients in the following counties: Alameda, Contra, Napa, Marin, Santa Clara, San Francisco and San Mateo County and in the following practice areas: Public Benefits, housing issues, domestic violence commencement of divorce, immigration relief... continue reading
Eligibility: Some income eligibility guidelines.
Eligibility: Clients must live or work in 94124 zip code of San Francisco. If there is a housing issue, the residence must be located in 94124.
Eligibility: Any tenant (or landlord) in Berkeley. Also, referral to free legal services for low-income tenants in eviction lawsuits.
The Berkeley Tenants Union is dedicated to defending and advancing the rights of Berkeley renters through grassroots organizing, outreach, and policy advocacy. We believe housing is a human right and rent stabilization is Berkeley’s most effective affordable housing program. We will empower and... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed.
Bet Tzedek was founded in 1974 by a small group of lawyers, rabbis, and community activists who sought to act upon a central tenet of Jewish law and tradition: “Tzedek, tzedek tirdof – Justice, justice you shall pursue.” This doctrine establishes an obligation to advocate the just causes of the... continue reading
Eligibility: Low income residents of Los Angeles
CARA is a statewide, progressive, grassroots senior advocacy organization representing over 800,000 members from affiliated organizations (union retiree groups, senior centers, senior resident associations, senior serving agencies, community groups). We work on issues to improve the quality of life... continue reading
Eligibility: Not a direct service provider - refer seniors to agencies serving the elderly. We are a membership based advocacy organization.
The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) is responsible for enforcing state fair housing laws that make it illegal to discriminate against or harass someone because of a protected characteristic, such as their gender, race, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or religion. (For... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status or documentation required.
Formed in 1976 following a farmworker housing conference, CCRH is one of the oldest state low-income housing coalitions in the country. Through advocacy, organizing, research, and technical assistance, our goal is to make the case for rural housing improvement and strengthen the capacity of the... continue reading
Eligibility: Serves everyone in California.
Eligibility: Eviction Defense Assistance, Legal Representation, Legal Representation -- Eviction Defense
Eligibility: Eviction Defense Assistance, Legal Representation, Legal Representation -- Eviction Defense
Eligibility: Eviction Defense Assistance, Legal Representation, Legal Representation -- Eviction Defense
Eligibility: Legal problem must be a CRLA priority and the office will assist if there are resources available.
Income less than 125% of Federal Poverty Guidelines, or up to 200% in special situations; U.S. citizen or legal immigrant.
Free Legal Housing Clinic offered in English & Spanish.
Every other Saturday, from 11am to 1pm.
The California Women's Law Center is helping tenants answer their legal questions. Attorney sare available to discuss your legal housing needs, including questions about emergency measures related... continue reading
See most recent LSNC resource updates for this emergency at https://lsnc.net/camp-fire-butte-county-resources
We are a general civil litigation firm with special expertise in all aspects of housing law.
Campbell & Farahani, LLP is one of the few private law firms in Southern California focusing on litigating housing rights cases in both State and federal court. Its cases involving disability and national original discrimination, fraudulent eviction, constructive eviction, violation of local... continue reading
***click here to return to the Sample Letters webpage in English***
Eligibility: At Castelblanco Law Group, A Prof. Law Corp., we fight to protect tenant rights. We concentrate our practice exclusively in Housing Law so we can focus on tenants. We primarily represent tenants who live in substandard living conditions and lead poisoning cases. The State of California guarantees everyone the right to live in safe and secure housing without threat of discrimination or persecution. Castelblanco Law Group, A Prof. Law Corp. is here to help any resident of California who feels that their rights were violated by their landlord. We devote our entire practice to helping tenants – never landlords. We fight to maximize your compensation and to prevent landlords from violating anyone else’s rights in the future.
Catholic Charities administers the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) when they receive funding. The EFSP offers one month's rent or mortgage payment, and/or one month's utility bill for qualified residents of Fresno County.
Eligibility: The EFSP offers one month's rent or mortgage payment, and/or one month's utility bill for qualified residents of Fresno County.
Catholic Charities of Stockton adminsters the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) which can provide up to one month's rent or mortgage payment and/or one month's utility bill for qualifying residents of Stockton.
Eligibility: For Stockton residents. Call for more information.
We are a housing & immigrant rights organization in SF and Oakland. We have a Tenant Rights Clinic in both cities and help low-income Spanish speaking tenants in the SF office. In the Oakland office we serve low-income tenants who reside in Oakland. The Tenant Rights Clinics helps tenants with... continue reading
Eligibility: Low-income tenant of Oakland.
Causa Justa :: Just Cause (CJJC) is a multi-racial, grassroots organization building community leadership to achieve justice for low-income San Francisco and Oakland residents. We have a Tenant Rights Clinic that serves low-income Spanish-speaking tenants of San Francisco. It is the only tenant... continue reading
Eligibility: Low-income, Spanish-speaking (there are some exceptions)
CAUSE's mission is to build grassroots power to invoke social, economic and environmental justice for the people of California's Central Coast Region through policy research, leadership development, organizing, and advocacy.
The Center for Community Advocacy (CCA) trains farmworkers to form and lead neighborhood-based tenant and health committees or comités that, themselves, advocate for improved housing and health conditions for farmworkers and other low-income families in Monterey County and Santa Cruz County.
The Center for Social Advocacy (CSA) was incorporated in 1969 as a private non-profit organization by members of regions who were concerned about social injustices and inequities. CSA services have grown over the years and now include:
COUNSELING
Includes the provision of information concerning... continue reading
Eligibility: Must reside in one of the contract areas. If you live outside of CSA's contract area you will be referred to the appropriate agency.
Mission: To Advance Justice and Empower People
Core Values: Commitment to excellence in providing creative quality legal services; Equal justice; Respect and compassion for our clients; Empowerment of clients; Pride, enjoyment and satisfaction in our work.
Purpose: The... continue reading
Eligibility: Our services are available to eligible low-income individuals in the counties we serve regardless of race, sex, age, religion, disability, family status, sexual orientation or national origin. Serving communities in the Central Valley and Sierra Foothills with offices based in Visalia, Merced, and Fresno. (ONLY AVAILABLE FOR DOCUMENTED US CITIZENS)
Mission: To Advance Justice and Empower People
Core Values: Commitment to excellence in providing creative quality legal services; Equal justice; Respect and compassion for our clients; Empowerment of clients; Pride, enjoyment and satisfaction in our work.
Purpose: The... continue reading
Eligibility: Our services are available to eligible low-income individuals in the counties we serve regardless of race, sex, age, religion, disability, family status, sexual orientation or national origin. Serving communities in the Central Valley and Sierra Foothills with offices based in Visalia, Merced, and Fresno.
Mission: To Advance Justice and Empower People
Core Values: Commitment to excellence in providing creative quality legal services; Equal justice; Respect and compassion for our clients; Empowerment of clients; Pride, enjoyment and satisfaction in our work.
Purpose: The... continue reading
Eligibility: Our services are available to eligible low-income individuals in the counties we serve regardless of race, sex, age, religion, disability, family status, sexual orientation or national origin. Serving communities in the Central Valley and Sierra Foothills with offices based in Visalia, Merced, and Fresno.
A comprehensive legal services agency whose mission is to protect and advance the rights of immigrant, low-income, and Latino communities. Promotes safe, stable, and healthy housing by helping people fight unlawful evictions, rent increases, and bad conditions. Six clinics per month – please call... continue reading
Eligibility: Must meet federal poverty or HUD guidelines to be eligible for free services.
The Mission of the Chinatown Community Development Center is to build community and enhance the quality of life for San Francisco residents. We are a place-based community development organization serving primarily the Chinatown neighborhood, and also serve other areas including North Beach,... continue reading
The Chronicle Season of Sharing Fund provides temporary assistance to help people living in Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma counties.
Eligibility: Low-to-moderate income families with dependent children; senior citizens (55+); disabled individuals; veterans; victims of domestic violence; pregnant women in their 2nd or 3rd trimester; and transitioning emancipated foster youth who have a critical need and who reside in the counties of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, or Sonoma
The City of Alameda Housing Authority runs the Rent Review Advisory Committee (RRAC). This is a rent review program that enforces the Rent Stabilization and Eviction Ordinance no3148.
Grass-roots group organizing renters throughout the Los Angeles area to protect rent control, ensure tenants' rights, preserve affordable housing. Among an impressive list of victories achieved in it 35 year history includes leading the effort to win rent control in the cities of Los Angeles and... continue reading
HUD approved Housing Counseling Agency
Eligibility: Anyone seeking information regarding Tenants
Community Legal Aid SoCal is dedicated to meeting the legal needs of the greatest number of low-income people throughout Orange and Los Angeles Counties.
We are able to provide assistance in the following areas. Contact us to learn more about how we can help with:
Eligibility: All seniors, 60+
Legal Services Corporation and State Bar guidelines for income (low-income)
The Community Legal Information Center (CLIC) is a student-run, non-profit organization that has been providing legal information to students and community members for over 40 years. Free legal information is offered in 11 areas of the law, including housing.
Eligibility: Students and community members.
We are affiliated with the McGeorge School of Law and assist low-income clients in Sacramento County in the following clinics: Bankruptcy Clinic, Elder Law and Health Clinic, Immigration Clinic and Victims of Crime Clinic.
Eligibility: assist low-income clients in Sacramento County in the following clinics: Bankruptcy Clinic, Elder Law and Health Clinic, Immigration Clinic and Victims of Crime Clinic.
Community Legal Services in East Palo Alto (CLSEPA) provides legal assistance to low-income individuals and families in East Palo Alto and the surrounding community. Our practice areas include immigration, housing, and economic advancement.
www.clsepa.org
Community Resources for Independent Living (CRIL) advocates and provides resources for people with disabilities to improve the quality of life and make communities fully accessible. We provide 15 independent living programs and services, including housing assistance, individual advocacy and more!... continue reading
Eligibility: Alameda County resident with any type of disability or functional limitation who can benefit from CRIL services to increase personal independence.
No Immigration status requirements
Our Emergency Assistance program is designed to provide vital resources to clients in crisis. Our case workers assess each situation and determine immediate needs, whether that comes in the form of providing temporary shelter or one-time emergency financial assistance to help pay rent or PG&E... continue reading
Eligibility: Community Services Agency of Mountain View and Los Altos provides services to residents of Mountain View, Los Altos and Los Altos Hills. Applicants must meet HUD income guidelines to qualify for services.
Contra Costa Senior Legal Services (“CCSLS”) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free civil legal services to Contra Costa County residents who are 60 or older. We offer a wide array of services throughout the county.
Clients can speak with an attorney at our office conveniently... continue reading
Eligibility: SLS SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE ONLY TO RESIDENTS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY (CALIFORNIA) WHO ARE SIXTY YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER. THERE IS NO FEE FOR OUR SERVICE.
SLS provides general advice, counsel and representation in civil legal matters, such as housing, income maintenance/ finance, elder abuse, consumer matters, estate planning and related issue
Marin Mediation Services is a service of the County of Marin. Mediation is a voluntary process by which people come together with one or more professionally trained and experienced mediators who assist them in resolving their dispute in order to arrive at a mutually satisfactory agreement.
Eligibility: Sliding scale fees.
FREE OR LOW COST LANDLORD/TENANT MEDIATION SERVICES - We act as neutral third party to help people in conflict resolve disputes. Participation is voluntary for all parties. We also offer mediation and conflict-coaching services to resolve family, small business, real estate, community/residential,... continue reading
Eligibility: We are a low-cost service for all of SLO County. Also, our special SLO Solutions program provides services FREE for any city of San Luis Obispo resident, as well as any student at Cal Poly or Cuesta. No immigration status/documentation needed
Mission for Creative Real Estate:
Eligibility: Must be Low income
Aggressive landlord tenant law practice focusing solely on the representation of tenants. Eviction help. Sue the landlord. OMI wrongful eviction. Personal injury. We accept major credit cards.
The mission of the Department of Fair Employment and Housing is to protect Californians from employment, housing and public accommodation discrimination, and hate violence. The DFEH is the largest state civil rights agency in the country. It was established by the Legislature in 1959 as the... continue reading
Advance the rights of Californians with disabilities. Disability Rights California works to bring about fairness and justice for people with disabilities. To reach those goals of fairness and justice, we may:
File lawsuits on behalf of individuals or groups,
Investigate charges of abuse and neglect... continue reading
Eligibility: California resident with a disability.
Eligibility: Income Guidelines
In general, EBCLC serves individuals living at or below 125% of the federal poverty guidelines. The guidelines change every year, but the following monthly incomes are rough estimates for a household of:
$1,125
$1,515
$1,900
$2,295
Cities Served
Primarily northern Alameda County, in the cities of:
Berkeley
Oakland
Emeryville
For some types of cases we serve all of Alameda and Contra Costa counties.
East Bay Housing Organizations (EBHO) is a 27-year-old membership non-profit organization, founded in 1984, dedicated to working with communities in Alameda and Contra Costa counties to preserve, protect and expand affordable housing opportunities through education, advocacy, and coalition... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
ELACC develops and coordinates affordable housing projects in Los Angeles, offers support programs for local residents, and advances tenant right protections through community inclusion in workshops and advocacy-related events.
updated 08/19_FC
The mission of EPACT and EPACT Education Fund is to protect and promote the rights, common good and general welfare of the tenant residents of East Palo Alto, California through preserving and creating quality affordable housing for low and moderate income residents, advocacy, lobbying,... continue reading
The Rent Stabilization Program offers information to tenants, landlords, and the public on matters related to the City's rent stabilization laws.
The East Palo Alto Rent Stabilization Program offers several services:
Provide information and assistance to landlords and tenants... continue reading
Eligibility: *No immigration status/documentation needed
ECHO Housing services include
1) Tenant/Landlord Counseling Program
provides information to tenants and landlords on their housing rights and responsibilities
2) Rental Assistance Program
assists residents living in Livermore and Pleasanton with move-in costs or delinquent rent due to a... continue reading
A Committee of Neighbors of the Western Side of East Palo Alto:
Dedicated to tenants' rights, anti-displacement work, and affordable housing.
updated 08/19_FC
Eligibility: Low-income tenants in East Palo Alto.
Elder Law & Advocacy programs include:
1) Senior Citizens Legal Services – legal services for persons ages 60 and over;
Eligibility: Senior residents of San Diego and Imperial counties.
Elke & Merchant LLP are experienced tenant lawyers dedicated to protecting tenant rights throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
EDC has been dedicated to serving marginalized communities inlcuding, but not limited to, low-income families, elderly tenants, and tenants with disabilities.
EDC services for Berkeley residents
Free legal support on a broad range of housing matters including substandard housing... continue reading
The EDC provides legal assistance to people who are in legal proceedings for eviction in San Francisco. EDC connects tenants directly with the attorney that will represent them for free through trial.
EDC also runs the Rental Assistance Disbursement Component (RADCo) program, which provides... continue reading
Eligibility: Rental Assistance Disbursement Component (RADCo) eligibility criteria: 1) You live in San Francisco and are not a Housing Authority tenant; 2) Your household has sufficient income to pay your future rent and expenses 3) You plan to stay in your home for at least six months; Note: You do not have to have a three-day notice to qualify for rental assistance. Likewise, you may still be able to get help even if you have already been sued for eviction. // Refer to website for needed intake documentation
No immigration status/documentation needed
To apply for services fill out this form https://edn.la/eviction-defense-form/ If you cannot do that yourself ask someone to help you or call 213/385-8112 and we will help you fill it out.
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
Offices in Century City, Burbank, Sacramento
Office hours:
Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
In-person meetings by appointment only. Please call 213-340-0300 or email info@excelsislaw.com for a free consultation and appointment.
Fax: (213) 340-0200
Eligibility: *No immigration status/documentation needed
The FHCCC investigates complaints of housing discrimination and predatory lending, and also offers mediation, counseling, advocacy, research, and fair housing training and workshops for consumers as well as housing providers.
updated 08/19_FC
Services provided by the Fair Housing Council include fair housing enforcement and education, landlord/tenant counseling, mediation and homebuyer HUD counseling which includes first-time homebuyer education and mortgage default counseling.
Eligibility: All callers, on-line or walk-ins (tenants, landlords, managers, etc.) with inquiries involving property located in Orange County. Services are available to low-to-moderate income clients free-of-charge and to others for a moderate donation. No immigration status/documentation needed.
The Fair Housing Council of Riverside County, Inc. (FHCRC) offers services to both landlords and tenants in an effort to resolve disputes arising from the individual’s tenancy. FHCRC receives complaints, investigates them, and then attempts to mediate the dispute between the landlord and tenant.... continue reading
The Council's primary goal is to investigate complaints of housing and lending discrimination, but we also offer direct assistance to tenants in foreclosed properties and provide assistance to homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure. Additionally, the Council takes complaints regarding... continue reading
The Fair Housing Foundation runs a Fair Housing Program that addresses housing discrimination claims; informs landlords and tenants of their rights and duties; helps tenants with habitability issues and evictions, among other tenancy-related problems; and offers referrals to other agencies.
Los... continue reading
Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California provides
free comprehensive fair housing counseling
complaint investigation
assistance in filing housing discrimination complaints with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or the California Department of Fair Employment... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration documentation / status needed
Through a massive outreach and listening campaign, Faith in the Vally leaders have developed a comprehensive vision for change focused on
safe and decent housing
jobs and poverty
environmental justice
parks
police accountability
gun violence
Address:
1955 Broadway St.
Fresno,... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status or documentation needed.
A nonprofit agency providing landlords and tenants with confidential counseling for all rental housing questions:
security deposits
repairs
termination of tenancy
evictions
privacy
right to entry
retaliation
rent increases
The program also provides confidential... continue reading
The scope of service provided by Fresno EOC consists of almost all facets of human services and economic development:
crisis intervention (emergency shelter for youth and families)
pre-school education
vocational training
youth recreation
senior citizen hot meal services
energy... continue reading
Eligibility: Call to confirm
Programs managed by the Fresno Housing Authority involve:
Eligibility: Resident of Fresno County.
FIRM serves the needs of over 6500 refugees in the Fresno area of the California San Joaquin Valley, primarily refugees of Southeast Asian, Slavic, and African origin.
Services include
Giampaoli Law is the solo practice of Lisa Giampaoli, attorney at law.
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
We answer emails and calls on a regular basis and we have meetings open to community members on the first and third Wednesday of every month. To attend meetings, email or call to be sent a zoom link.
Our meetings are in Spanish, English and Armenian.
Eligibility: *No immigration status/documentation needed
Golden State Manufactured-home Owners League, Inc. (GSMOL) is a nonprofit homeowner advocacy organization, dedicated to protecting the rights and quality of life of manufactured home owners. GSMOL educates home owners on their rights, solves problems for manufactured home communities throughout... continue reading
Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance, Inc offers free legal services in civil matters to low-income persons residing in its service area within Kern County, California
Areas of practice include but are not limited to:
Housing and homelessness
Domestic violence,
Guardianship... continue reading
Eligibility: To be eligible for services, individuals must reside in Kern County, meet income and asset guidelines, and present a legal problem within the GBLA core areas of practice.
Greenstein & McDonald can represent tenants for claims against landlords including but not limited to:
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
Phone: (415) 773-1240 x304
Hamilton Families is San Francisco’s leading service provider to homeless families, with carefully designed programs to prevent homelessness, provide shelter and stability, return families to permanent housing and support the well-being of children experiencing homelessness.
Programs
1) Hamilton... continue reading
HIP Housing’s mission is to invest in human potential by improving the housing and lives of people in our community.
Programs:
1) Home Sharing Program
A living arrangement among two or more unrelated people
Home owners or renters who have a residence with one or more bedrooms are matched... continue reading
Eligibility: Home Sharing: a home or apartment to share or someone seeking a place to live.
Self Sufficiency: low income single parent or two parent family or Transitional Aged Foster Youth in school or doing job-training.
Below-market or subsidized units: must call 650-348-6820 for more information and availability.
No immigration status/documentation needed.
HAP provides legal services and supporting social services to individuals and families in San Francisco who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness, while prioritizing individuals who have mental health disabilities.
The most common legal issues addressed at HAP are federal disability... continue reading
Eligibility: Homeless, or threatened with homelessness; you have a disability or minor children living with you
The Hooshmand Law Group specializes in tenants' rights concerning just cause evictions and Proposition M. We focus on obtaining justice for those who have had their rights violated by San Francisco landlords.
Phone: (415) 835-5900 x122
We are a firm that represents tenants against the improper actions of landlords.
We assist tenants in protecting their right to live in a clean, affordable home by suing landlords who do not comply with the law. We strive to obtain compliance with the law and also money damages when the landlord has not complied. Typically there is no cost to the client.
We are committed and compassionate lawyers and legal professionals in San Francisco and Oakland who provide tenant advice in San Francisco and tenant advice in Oakland. For evictions we assist tenants in defending evictions from owner move in (OMI) evictions, wrongful and retaliatory evictions and... continue reading
The Housing Advocacy Council provides homeless prevention services to low income residents of Monterey County. Services includes emergency rental assistance, security deposit guarantees, tenant education, and financial literacy education.
Eligibility: Rental assistance-need, sustainability following assistance, documentation of the emergency or homelessness, completion of application process.
Security deposit - Adequate income to cover all household costs
Education - none
HERA is a California statewide, not-for-profit legal service and advocacy organization dedicated to helping Californians — particularly those most vulnerable — build a safe, sound financial future, free of discrimination and economic abuses, in all aspects of household financial concerns.
We... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
Phone: (510) 271-8443 x300
The Housing Authority of the City of Redding offers a Housing Choice Voucher Program:
Provides rental assistance to very-low income, eligible applicants
Preference given to elderly individuals, individuals with disabilties, and families who live or work within the City of Redding.
updated... continue reading
Eligibility: Resident of the City of Redding
The Housing Authority of the County of Monterey (HACM) is a public agency that provides rental assistance and develops and manages affordable housing throughout Monterey County, California.
Programs
1) Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)
Provides assistance for very low-income households (single... continue reading
Eligibility: Must be Monterey County residents
HELP seeks to expand legal protections in fair housing through its advocacy, leadership training, education and outreach, and enforcement of anti-discrimination laws. Its services include:
1) Client Representation
Housing discrimination investigations
Counseling
Mediation... continue reading
Eligibility: Tenants: complaint must be an allegation of discrimination based on fair housing laws.
Landlords: Fair Housing training available for private groups as well as larger groups for a fee
Government: Provide input on policy making,preparing analysis of impediments, compliance audits to ensure CDBG & HUD guidelines are being met by local municipalities and subcontractors
No immigration status/documentation needed
Housing For All Burlingame (HFAB) advocates for affordable housing to ensure the stability, safety, and diversity of our community. We are working to stabilize rents and support affordable housing in Burlingame.
updated 07/19_FC
Eligibility: Resident of Burlingame
Our vision is a Long Beach where all residents live in affordable, accessible, quality housing in healthy and empowered communities where government officials are responsive to the social and economic needs of all residents.
Our housing work focuses in four main areas:
Eligibility: Resident of Long Beach
The Housing Resource Center of Monterey County provides a continuum of housing resources for homeless prevention to access affordable housing opportunities.
Emergency Rental Assistance:
Eligibility: Call to confirm
Housing Rights Committee has fought for tenant rights since 1979.
Free counseling* for San Francisco tenants in all types of housing: rent-controlled units, SROs, public housing and Section 8, serving over 5,000 tenants a year.
Organize entire buildings to fight against displacement... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
The Court’s self-help centers provide assistance in the areas of both family law and non-family (civil) law. These services are available to all self-represented parties, regardless of income.
The self-help center staff can provide you with information on your legal rights and obligations; they... continue reading
Humphreys Joiner Law Group, LLP are a tenant-serving law office that addresses the following issues:
wrongful evictions
tenant harassment
tenant lockouts and utility shutoffs
owner move-in eviction
security deposit issues
San Francisco rent board petitions
sublease and... continue reading
IMPACT promotes tenants becoming owners. We are lawyers and brokers, representing tenants buying their units and groups of tenants buying their buildings. DRE 02078337, https://impactindeed.com
Office hours: Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM
Address:
870 Market St., Suite 315
San Francisco, CA... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
Inland Counties Legal Services, Inc. pursues justice and equality for low-income people through counsel, advice, advocacy, and community education, treating all with dignity and respect.
Eligibility: Must meet ICLS low-income guidelines, and be a U.S. citizen or Legal Permanent Resident.
Inland Counties Legal Services pursues justice and equality for low income people
through counsel, advice, advocacy, and community education,treating all with dignity and respect."
Eligibility: Riverside County Residents and low income.
IELLA's mission has been to provide free legal services for the poor and underprivileged residents of the Inland Empire via it's volunteer attorneys and staff. IELLA supports individuals in many legal areas, including but not limited to tenant-landlord issues and debt matters.
updated 07/19_FC
Eligibility: You must qualify as a low income individual; You must physically live in either Riverside or San Bernardino County; IELLA is able to help U.S. citizens, legal residents, and non-legal residents
Funded by numerous grants and awards, IFHMB serves as an intermediary to assist individuals in resolving issues related to housing discrimination, homeownership sustainability, rental complaints, & disputes in court through the provision of resource recommendations, education, and mediation.... continue reading
Phone: (909) 984-2254 x134
For help with an eviction, tenants must be referred to ICLC via Shriver Self Help Centers in the courthouses or Stay Housed LA (www.stayhousedla.org)
ICLC provides a wide variety of legal services focused mainly on housing and homelessness to low-income individuals and families:
Healthy Homes
Eligibility: Call to confirm, No immigration status or documentation needed
Inquilinos Unidos (United Tenants) empowers low-income Los Angeles tenants through community organizing, education and advocacy. We also work on legislative efforts, tenant rights training and strategy planning, and class action or taxpayer lawsuits to address the most egregious housing violations... continue reading
Eligibility: Open to general public.
The best way for tenants to contact us is to schedule a consultation through our website or send us an email.
We are a student run organization that primarily focuses on tenant education and legal counseling.
Isla Vista Tenants Union challenges and transforms unjust housing conditions and housing... continue reading
Eligibility: We serve residents of Isla Vista and UC Santa Barbara students. No immigrant status or documentation needed.
At the heart of Jewish Free Loan Association is the General or Emergency Loan Program, providing interest-free loans of up to $15,000 to individuals and families of all faiths in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. These loans assist normally self-supporting individuals with money for rent, moving... continue reading
Eligibility: You are a US citizen with a social security number; You are a resident of Los Angeles, Ventura, or Santa Barbara county; You are at least 18 years old; You have a state-issued California ID; You have a steady source of income or you are a full-time student seeking a student loan; You can demonstrate a need for a loan; You have one or two guarantors to secure your loan; You can supply all the documentation required.
Phone: (323) 761-8830 x100
Our Tenant Advocacy Project offers eviction prevention legal services. The goal is to find a resolution before it reaches a point of eviction or homelessness. This project is currently undergoing some structural changes and is not operational. In the meantime, tenants should use our Lawyer Referral... continue reading
Eligibility: Accepts tenants from any city or county
The LA Tenants Union is a diverse, tenant-led movement fighting for the human right to housing for all.
To mobilize tenants in a city as diverse and expansive as Los Angeles, the LA Tenants Union is establishing local chapters. Locals organize around neighborhood issues and help link neighborhood... continue reading
Our Housing Program provides free legal advice and representation on housing-related matters to low-income individuals in Santa Clara County.
We can assist with:
• Defending eviction lawsuits
• Housing discrimination issues like reasonable accommodation requests for individuals with disabilities
•... continue reading
Eligibility: Low-income individuals in Santa Clara
Public interest law firm specializing in housing, eviction defense, tenant advocacy, employment rights, wage claims. Offering services in Spanish, Russian, French and Tagalog.
Eligibility: Call to confirm
***This attorney is a member of the Tenant Lawyer Network of California (TLN). The TLN is a professional association of dues-paying tenant lawyers operated by Tenants Together. The TLN is not a lawyer referral service. TLN members do not share fees with TLN or Tenants Together or pay any referral... continue reading
Mark Palmer is a tenants’ lawyer (both commercial and residential). He has represented hundreds of tenants in unlawful detainers (eviction cases) and appeals. He was featured on the KNX-AM Business Hour in Los Angeles as an expert in tenants’ rights. He drafts court documents (answers, demurrers,... continue reading
Mark Palmer has been a private attorney since 1984. He has operated his own firm, the Law Office of Mark B. Palmer, since 1994, representing tenants only. Mark Palmer represents both commercial and residential tenants in unlawful detainer actions (eviction cases), lease reviews, security deposit... continue reading
Eligibility: Although I have been in practice since 1984, I have operated my own firm since 1994, representing tenants only. I have handled hundreds of unlawful detainer actions and many appeals. I donate my time at Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (Santa Monica office) for the tenants’ rights clinics.
sole practitioner. not able to take all cases. UD defense, affirmative actions (suing LL for money damages due to breach of warranty of habitability.) Also Sec. 8 voucher termination hearings and writs of mandate.
Eligibility: Private law office - $200 per hour for representation. Limited service negotiable. Represent on contingency fee basis if tenant is suing landlord.
**This attorney is a member of the Tenant Lawyer Network of California (TLN). The TLN is a professional association of dues-paying tenant lawyers operated by Tenants Together. The TLN is not a lawyer referral service. TLN members do not share fees with TLN or Tenants Together or pay any referral... continue reading
Eligibility: Must be a tenant.
**This attorney is a member of the Tenant Lawyer Network. Tenants Together is not a lawyer referral service. We operate the Tenant Lawyer Network of California, a professional association of dues paying tenant lawyers. TLN members do not share fees with TLN or Tenants Together or pay any referral... continue reading
Private practice of law, emphasis on eviction defense
Eligibility: Not a funded legal services agency, and representation therefore requires fee, although effort is made to take client's resources into account in setting fees
Todd Espinosa is an attorney who has practiced law in the Bay Area since 2000. Todd represents tenants in housing discrimination lawsuits.
Law office specializing in representation of tenants in habitability, retaliation, wrongful eviction and personal injury claims in Sonoma County. Spanish speaking.
Eligibility: Consultations at no charge. Fees depend on nature of service, sliding scale for low income. Will take some cases on a contingency fee basis.
Tenant-side law office representing tenants in eviction defense, attempted wrongful eviction, wrongful eviction and other affirmative cases against landlord, buy-outs, habitability issues, general disputes.
Established in 2008, the Law Office of David L. McCarthy only represents tenants. Affordable, flat rate fees are told to the potential client in advance.
Service Areas
Eligibility: Call to confirm
Exclusively representing tenants in eviction matters for 15 years.
Eligibility: Helping renters get back their security deposits.
This law firm represents tenants in all types of disputes with landlords, property managers, resident managers, and master tenants, in San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Emeryville, Albany, and Alameda. Cases include: eviction defense, rent board cases, harassment, unlawful retaliation, tenancy... continue reading
Eligibility: Clients must have email or ready access to email.
As a new attorney in private practice I am eager to sue landlords for violating leases and state laws. What I lack in experience, I am happy to make up in cheaper fees. I am a Tenants Together hotline volunteer and love doing research to expand my expertise in whatever direction your case takes me.
LEDA Law specializes in protecting families that have endured substandard housing due to the oppressive conduct of their landlords. LEDA strives to help clients transition to safe, habitable housing and recover for their personal injuries and economic losses related to their tenancy. "We are a... continue reading
Legal Access provides free legal services to low-income people in Alameda County through monthly legal clinics in a range of areas of law.
Legal Access offers several programs:
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles is a nonprofit law firm that protects and advances the rights of the most underserved in several areas.
1) Eviction Defense -- We offer eligible clients the following services: Counsel and advice regarding housing issues, regardless whether an eviction is pending... continue reading
Eligibility: People with income less than 125% of the federal poverty guidelines are eligible and may qualify for assistance. Sometimes people with less than 200% of the federal poverty guidelines can qualify. Please call to see if you are eligible.
Legal Aid is a legal services agency.
They are walk-in clinics that offer self-representing individuals legal information, assistance in preparing legal forms, and guidance on a variety of civil matters, including evictions, divorces and paternity actions, and civil harassment. Referrals to private attorneys or legal services programs... continue reading
Eligibility: Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles helps low-income people. People with income less than 125% of the federal poverty guidelines are eligible and may qualify for assistance. Sometimes people with less than 200% of the federal poverty guidelines can qualify. Please call LAFLA at 800-399-4529 to see if you are eligible.
The Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara provides free legal assistance to low-income people and senior citizens at our Legal Aid offices in the following areas of law
Legal Aid of Sonoma County offers the HOME program, which helps low-income tenants with eviction defense, Section 8 issues, mobile home park issues, and habitability problems.
updated 07/19_FC
Eligibility: Low income Sonoma county resident; You must come to our office during business hours to make an appointment, and you must bring proof of your income with you.
The Legal Aid Society advocates educating, organizing, and empowering tenants to exercise their human right to affordable and safe housing, with an emphasis on foreclosure prevention.
U.D.(Eviction) Answers Clinic*
Legal Aid Society of San Bernardino
588 W. Sixth Street, San Bernardino CA... continue reading
Eligibility: Must be a resident of San Bernadino County
The Legal Aid Society of San Diego, Inc. (LASSD) is a nonprofit law firm that provides free legal services to lower income San Diego residents.
Housing
Eviction
Problems or questions about public housing (section 8, tax credit or other)
Housing discrimination
Questions about tenant... continue reading
Eligibility: Low-Income San Diego residents
The Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County’s vision is for every person to have the basic necessities of life, including safe affordable housing, access to health care, economic security, secure immigration status, an appropriate education, and freedom from violence and abuse.
Tenant Rights... continue reading
Legal Aid Society investigate , conciliates and when appropriate litigates cases of housing discrimination. Also works with tenants in some areas of tenant/landlord law, subsidized housing rights when combined with a discriminatory housing issue. Offers education and outreach in Housing... continue reading
Phone: (408) 283-1535 x246
LAE provides advice, referrals and/or representation at no cost to eligible individuals who are experiencing the following:
HOUSING
-- Tenants facing eviction, illegal rent increases, denials of reasonable accommodations of their disabilities and some other housing issues
Eligibility: Must be a San Francisco resident age sixty and over, or a San Francisco resident age eighteen through fifty-nine and disabled.
Legal Services for Seniors (LSS) can help with:
- Elder Abuse, Financial & Physical
- Security, SSI and private pension problems
- Health care, Medicare, Medi-Cal & private health insurance problems
- Housing rights and landlord/tenant disputes
- Advanced Health Care... continue reading
Eligibility: Must be a Monterey County Resident and at least 60 years old.
LSNC is a federal, state and local-funded legal services program providing civil representation to low-income clients in 23 counties in Northern California.
Housing priorities address: Assisting clients with the creation and preservation of low-income housing, tenants rights, evictions and lock... continue reading
Eligibility: Low Income and persons over age 59.
Since 1956, Legal Services of Northern California has provided quality legal services that empower the poor to identify and defeat the causes and effects of poverty. LSNC’s service priorities include the preservation of housing; health care; enhancing economic stability; support for families,... continue reading
Eligibility: Serve low income persons--up to 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines or persons over the age of 59.
Since 1956, Legal Services of Northern California has provided quality legal services that empower the poor to identify and defeat the causes and effects of poverty. LSNC’s service priorities include the preservation of housing; health care; enhancing economic stability; support for families,... continue reading
Eligibility: Serve low income persons--up to 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines or persons over the age of 59.
Since 1956, Legal Services of Northern California has provided quality legal services that empower the poor to identify and defeat the causes and effects of poverty. LSNC’s service priorities include the preservation of housing; health care; enhancing economic stability; support for families,... continue reading
Eligibility: Serve low income persons--up to 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines or persons over the age of 59.
Since 1956, Legal Services of Northern California has provided quality legal services that empower the poor to identify and defeat the causes and effects of poverty. LSNC’s service priorities include the preservation of housing; health care; enhancing economic stability; support for families,... continue reading
Eligibility: Serve low income persons--up to 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines or persons over the age of 59
Since 1956, Legal Services of Northern California has provided quality legal services that empower the poor to identify and defeat the causes and effects of poverty. LSNC’s service priorities include the preservation of housing; health care; enhancing economic stability; support for families,... continue reading
Eligibility: Serve low income persons--up to 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines or persons over the age of 59.
Since 1956, Legal Services of Northern California has provided quality legal services that empower the poor to identify and defeat the causes and effects of poverty. LSNC’s service priorities include the preservation of housing; health care; enhancing economic stability; support for families,... continue reading
Eligibility: Serve low income persons--up to 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines or persons over the age of 59.
LiBRE is a grassroots organizing group advancing justice in disadvantaged communities through creation and preservation of affordable housing, renter protections, and community economic development.
updated 07/19_FC
Eligibility: Must live within Long Beach or surrounding cities
The LifeMoves mission is to provide interim housing and supportive services for homeless families and individuals to rapidly return to stable housing and achieve long-term self-sufficiency.
LifeMoves provides safe and clean living spaces, nutritious food, counseling and mental health supportive... continue reading
LACLJ strives to provide holistic, trauma-informed services. In addition to meeting clients’ diverse legal needs, LACLJ provides clients with safety planning, psycho-education and social service referrals through its Community Care Advocacy Program. LACLJ works closely with survivors of domestic... continue reading
The mission of the LA Human Right to Housing Collective is to build a city-wide tenants movement and create a network of resident-led organizations and committees that can build power to implement the principle of the human right to housing in LA housing policies.
updated 07/19_FC
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
Free Legal Self Help Services Available to the Public, in English and Spanish
Eligibility: Marin County
This is a free service is available to anyone who calls or texts the California Peer-Run Warm Line at 1-855-845-7415. It is a peer-run mental health line.
We exist to bring our community the resources, support, and guidance with regards to tenants of area residential motels, mobile home parks, and other unique and legally fuzzy living communities.
Eligibility: We have recently established ourselves in terms of the basics, so we anticipate a trial and error period. Local resources in the Central Valley are welcome to submit questions.
Phone: (209) 522-7276 x140
The Self-Help Center provides information and explains options to self-represented litigants. The Self-Help Center does not represent parties or give legal advice.
The Self-Help Center can help you with:
Unlawful Detainers and Answers (Landlord/Tenant Issues)
Monterey County Bar Association... continue reading
Eligibility: Monterey county resident
Phone: (831) 647-5800 x3005
The law firm of Mosbrucker & Foran specializes in lawsuits involving wrongful evictions, Costa-Hawkins disputes and other excessive rent increases, illegal rental units, landlord harassment, and substandard living conditions.
Most of the work we do for tenants is on a contingency fee basis.... continue reading
The MVTC is a tenant-centered movement comprised of a diverse range of people who have in common a desire to protect renters' rights and to fight for the human right to housing for all. Our mission and goals are as follows:
Eligibility: resident in Mountain View
The Neighborhood House Association (NHA) is San Diego County's largest multi-purpose human services agency. NHA helps thousands of individuals and families improve their quality of life by providing vital social services including employment, healthcare, child, family, and senior services.
updated... continue reading
Eligibility: Available to all San Diego County residents
Neighborhood Legal Services believes access to safe, affordable housing is essential to the health of individuals, families, and communities.
The organization works to preserve affordable housing and rent control, prevent unlawful evictions and foreclosures, and fight discrimination in... continue reading
Eligibility: Income and eligibility guidelines must be met to qualify for services.
North Marin Community Services provides an array of services for children, adults, seniors and families to help them achieve well-being, growth and success.
If you are experiencing a financial crisis and may be at risk for becoming homeless, you may be eligible to apply for one-time rental... continue reading
Eligibility: Must be resident of Novato for 6 months. Must show certain paperwork as mandated by case manager.
Nunes Law represents clients in cases of:
1) Business and Agriculture Law
2) Personal Injury Law
updated 07/19_FC
The Neighborhood Law Corps (NLC) is an award-winning unit in the City Attorney's Office that works with partners in the community to improve quality of life in Oakland. Through lawsuits and other civil actions, the NLC fights for social, environmental and economic justice with a focus on abusive... continue reading
When available, Oakland Housing Authority offers rent subsidies to clients who qualify through a variety of different programs. Potential residents are encouraged to apply for housing that meets the needs of their household when pre-applications are being accepted. Generally, applicants are... continue reading
Oakland Tenants Union (OTU) is a community-based volunteer organization of housing activists dedicated to protecting tenant rights and interests in Oakland. OTU does this by working directly with tenants in their struggles with landlords; impacting legislation and public policy about housing;... continue reading
Eligibility: Must live in zip codes 94124, 94134, 94107, 94112, 94115, 94117, 94121, 94102, or 94109
The Superior Court of Orange County Self-Help Centers and website provide services and procedural information for self-represented litigants in order to increase understanding, participation, and access to the justice system and to enhance efficiencies and effectiveness of the court. Self-help... continue reading
Eligibility: Orange county resident.
Mediation is a voluntary dispute resolution process designed to bring people in conflict together in a safe environment for a face-to-face meeting to work out solutions to their differences.The PAMP office, through Project Sentinel, provides a full range of free dispute resolution services,... continue reading
Eligibility: Mediation services are offered to those who live, work, or own property in Palo Alto. These services are free, voluntary, and confidential.
Parkmerced Residents Organization is the SF Board of Supervisors recognized tenant organization for the neighborhood. We have fought for tenants rights and community issues and are a volunteer based organization.
This is a weekly clinic that provides FREE one-on-one consultations with our eviction defense attorney and attorney volunteers. Anyone with a UD or pre-UD questions can come to the clinic for information. The Clinic is held every Thursday from 3pm-7pm at the Pasadena Central Library in the meeting... continue reading
Eligibility: Assistance is limited to eviction cases filed in Pasadena or Van Nuys Courthouses
Phone: (213) 385-2977 x402
We are a grassroots movement founded in November 2016 by tenants and homeowners. We are a membership body of volunteers and have no paid staff. We believe housing is a human right and renters have an inalienable right to safe, decent, stable, and affordable housing. We advocate for renter rights... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
People Organized for Westside Renewal (POWER) is a membership-based community organizing group. We employ a community organizing strategy based on relationship building and direct action to create meaningful change in the neighborhoods where we work. We start locally, working on issues that matter... continue reading
Eligibility: POWER works with any tenants who are willing to stand together, help build a bigger base of organized tenants, and who are willing to fight for the Human Right to Housing for people of all incomes, races, religions, ethnicities, genders and backgrounds. No immigration status/documentation needed.
At Petaluma People Services Center (PPSC) our goal is to reduce poverty, physical and mental abuse, chemical dependence, violence, ignorance, isolation and mental illness, among children, adults, families and seniors.
PPSC offers:
counseling
job placement
gang prevention
daily hot... continue reading
Eligibility: Visit www.petalumapeople.org for eligibility of programs.
POWER is an organization that unites working class families, youth, and tenants to achieve economic, racial, and gender justice through organization and empowerment. POWER’s work changes the conditions and policies that exploit and displace our families and communities, by influencing policy to win... continue reading
Eligibility: POWER's main constituency in the Bayview Organizing Project is public housing residents and low-income home owners in the Bayview Hunters Point neighborhood.
In the Women Workers Project, our primary constituency is Latina immigrant women workers.
Since its founding in 1986, Pro Bono Project has been dedicated to representing clients of limited means and improving access to justice. The Pro Bono Project focuses on family law, domestic violence, and consumer law.
The Pro Bono Project offers free legal clinics/consultations with... continue reading
Eligibility: Santa Clara County Residents
Project Return Peer Support Network offers a variety of services ranging from self-help groups, support hotline (offered in English and Spanish), a respite house for individuals experiencing a crisis, resource centers, career and employment support, and training and consultation to other peer run... continue reading
Eligibility: Helps individuals dealing with mental health issues navigate social support services and obtain support from peers.
Project Sentinel assists individuals with housing problems such as discrimination, mortgage foreclosure & delinquency, rental issues including repairs, deposits, privacy, dispute resolution, home buyer education, post purchase education and reverse mortgages.
Santa Clara Office, Housing... continue reading
Project Sentinel assists individuals with housing problems such as discrimination, mortgage foreclosure & delinquency, rental issues including repairs, deposits, privacy, dispute resolution, home buyer education, post purchase education and reverse mortgages.
Fremont Office, Housing... continue reading
Project Sentinel assists individuals with housing problems such as discrimination, mortgage foreclosure & delinquency, rental issues including repairs, deposits, privacy, dispute resolution, home buyer education, post purchase education and reverse mortgages.
Gilroy Office, Housing... continue reading
Project Sentinel assists individuals with housing problems such as discrimination, mortgage foreclosure & delinquency, rental issues including repairs, deposits, privacy, dispute resolution, home buyer education, post purchase education and reverse mortgages.
Milpitas Office, Housing... continue reading
Project Sentinel assists individuals with housing problems such as discrimination, mortgage foreclosure & delinquency, rental issues including repairs, deposits, privacy, dispute resolution, home buyer education, post purchase education and reverse mortgages.
Modesto Office, Housing... continue reading
Project Sentinel assists individuals with housing problems such as discrimination, mortgage foreclosure & delinquency, rental issues including repairs, deposits, privacy, dispute resolution, home buyer education, post purchase education and reverse mortgages.
Redwood City Office, Housing... continue reading
Project Sentinel assists individuals with housing problems such as discrimination, mortgage foreclosure & delinquency, rental issues including repairs, deposits, privacy, dispute resolution, home buyer education, post purchase education and reverse mortgages.
Sacramento Office, Housing... continue reading
Public Counsel provides a wide variety of legal services to low-income individuals, nonprofits, and small businesses.
Public Counsel's Homelessness Prevention Law Project: eviction defense team provides assistance through direct representation at the Stanley Mosk and Pasadena Courthouses; prepare... continue reading
Eligibility: Low-income communities.
Through volunteers and staff, PLC provides free civil legal services, including counseling, individual representation, community education, and strategic litigation and advocacy to challenge societal injustices.
PLC works to preserve and create affordable housing in Orange County, prevent... continue reading
Eligibility: Orange County low-income resident and meet income requirements
The Richmond Rent Program is a city program that enforces the Richmond Fair Rent, Just Cause for Evictions and Homeowner's Protection Ordinance. The program provides information and assistance to tenants and landlords who are covered by the Ordinance, which went into effect December 30, 2016.... continue reading
Eligibility: Only available for tenants living in the City of Richmond
At Riley Law Group, PC, we limit our practice exclusively to helping tenants assert their rights against negligent and abusive landlords. Whether you and your family have been exposed to lead paint or have suffered an injury due to the uninhabitable conditions of the property being rented to you,... continue reading
Rooney & Lickel is a San Diego law firm specializing in tenant's rights, consumer rights, and bankruptcy. We vigorously represent tenants facing eviction in court, defend against illegal debt collection, and when necessary we bring affirmative actions against abusive landlords and illicit debt... continue reading
Eligibility: We charge a consultation fee and up front flat fee when defending unlawful detainer actions. In certain cases, we will waive the initial consultation fee and will work on a contingency basis.
San Diego Tenants United is an organization that fights for affordable & safe housing. We amplify the voices of tenants and aim to implement rent control.
updated 11/21_WW
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
The North County Unlawful Detainer Clinic provides legal information to litigants in unlawful detainer cases. Clinics operate weekly and are provided on a walk-in basis.
Eligibility: If you receive financial assistance under one or more of the following programs, you meet the income eligibility criteria for SDVLP's free legal services:
CAL-WORKS (TANF) Program
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or State Supplemental Payments Program (SSP)
Food Stamps Program
County Relief, General Relief (G.R.) or General Assistance (G.A.) Program
Older Americans Act (age 60 or older)
Developmentally Disabled Assistance Act
OR: If your household income is at or below established income guidelines as determined by Title 25 of the California Administrative Code for Housing and Community Development you are eligible.
San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program (SDVLP), Inc. provides free civil legal services to disadvantaged families, seniors, persons with disabilities, persons infected with HIV or AIDS, and domestic violence survivors in San Diego County. SDVLP offers the North County Unlawful Detainer Clinic, which... continue reading
Eligibility: If you receive financial assistance under one or more of the following programs, you meet the income eligibility criteria for SDVLP’s free legal services:
CAL-WORKS (TANF) Program
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or State Supplemental Payments Program (SSP)
Food Stamps Program
County Relief, General Relief (G.R.) or General Assistance (G.A.) Program
Older Americans Act (age 60 or older)
Developmentally Disabled Assistance Act;
OR: If your household income is at or below established income guidelines as determined by Title 25 of the California Administrative Code for Housing and Community Development you are eligible.
A primary goal of the San Francisco Housing Authority is to provide housing for low-income households, while integrating housing and economic opportunities for residents and maintaining high standards of property management, fiscal management and service delivery. The mission of the Authority is... continue reading
Eligibility: Residents of San Francisco County.
The mission of SFHDC is to foster financial stability through the development of affordable housing, the facilitation of homeownership and the economic empowerment and revitalization of Bayview Hunters Point and other neighborhoods of Southeast San Francisco.
Eligibility: Anyone interested in BMR (Below market rate) Housing and rental education. No immigration status/documentation needed
The San Francisco Rent Ordinance (SF Administrative Code, Chapter 37) was enacted effective June 13, 1979 by the Board Of Supervisors and signed by the Mayor as emergency legislation to alleviate the city's housing crisis.
The Rent Board has the authority to:
1) Promulgate Rules and... continue reading
The purpose of the San Francisco Tenants Union is to promote the preservation and expansion of the rights of tenants and the supply of affordable housing. Through drop-in counseling services and the distribution of the Tenants Rights Handbook, the SFTU has educated thousands of San Francisco... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
The mission of San Joaquin Fair Housing is to ensure that all members of our community have equal access to safe affordable housing and to eliminate discrimination in housing. We offer these services:
SLOLAF’s programs offer free legal-aid services, including direct legal representation, educating clients for self-representation, and facilitating conflict resolution
Eligibility: SLOLAF provides free legal assistance on civil matters to eligible low-income residents of San Luis Obispo County, including seniors (60+), veterans, people with disabilities, and other individuals/families, No immigration status/documentation needed
The Tenant Sanctuary hosts free legal clinics to tenants in the city of Santa Cruz.
Updated 11/21_WW
SMRR advocates for legislative protections of tenant rights, and it also offers the SMRR Hotline for Santa Monica Tenants. The hotline is a callback system where volunteers respond to tenants' messages about their needs. The hotline number is (310) 394-0848
Updated 06/19_FC
Eligibility: Tenant in the City of Santa Monica
With a diverse group of volunteers whom we train in communication and conflict resolution skills, SEEDS mediates disputes between neighbors, friends, families, landlords and tenants, those in business relationships, and court litigants. In addition to that, SEEDS provides conflict resolution... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
We are a non-profit organization serving low-income families in Rohnert Park and Cotati. We offer several programs, including Homeless Prevention (rental and deposit assistance), Youth Education and Employment, Counseling, Latino Outreach and Diversion Counseling.
Eligibility: Applicants need to be low-income families or individuals living in or moving to Rohnert Park or Cotati, and have already lived in Sonoma County for at least six months. Applicants are not eligible if: 1) they have received assistance for rent or deposit within the last two years; 2) have received deposit assistance that was not returned to the funding agency when the tenant moved out; 3) have Section 8 Housing Assistance (can apply for deposit only); or 4) can not prove that they will be able to pay their future rent. Applicants need to attend a Homeless Prevention workshop, which is offered twice each week (please call the information line listed for eligibility requirements and workshop times and locations.)
SPTU is a grassroots organization dedicated to defending tenant rights and interests. We are a community of activists that believe in fair and affordable housing. We are in support of Rent Control and Just Cause Eviction for South Pasadena. We aim to spread awareness, support, and education for... continue reading
Eligibility: Tenants and their supporters in Pasadena
The Housing Rights Center (HRC) offers an array of services:
1) Housing Discrimination Complaint Investigation
HRC investigates allegations of housing discrimination under the fair housing laws
Case resolution can include mediation, conciliation, a referral to state and federal... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
To improve the quality of life through comprehensive services that help establish food security, shelter, gainful employment and other opportunities toward achieving self-sufficiency. In existence since 1981.
Eligibility: Low income; resident of Gilroy or San Martin, CA; other minor criteria depending on what service is being sought.
Phone: (408) 842-6662 x25
Here in Marin, since 1946, our key crisis assistance programs support over 10,000 people annually and have grown to include:
1) Homeless Prevention through trained volunteer home visits.
2) Housing Help Desk provides direct client aid for homeless people.
3) Homeless Outreach Team (HOT... continue reading
Eligibility: Live in Marin County; For Crisis Assistance: you currently have housing but need help with an emergency situation; For Housing Help: you don't have housing; Dining Room open to all; For Jobs Stipend and Employment Training Program: you are homeless and unemployed; For Community Court: homeless or low-income
Eligibility: Call to inquire about eligibility.
Since 1996 SAJE has been a force for economic justice in our community focusing on tenant rights, healthy housing, and equitable development. We run a regular tenant clinic, help connect local residents to jobs, and fight for community benefits regarding future development through private... continue reading
SCS’s mission is to prevent homelessness and hunger in our local community. Our agency assists residents in all zip codes in Sunnyvale and the neighboring Alviso community in San Jose, as well as homeless persons including Veterans throughout Santa Clara County. SCS assists low-income individuals... continue reading
Eligibility: If you are a resident of Sunnyvale, CA or Alviso, CA and are experiencing a financial emergency; don’t have enough money left over to buy food after paying your rent and utility bills; or have children going to school and cannot afford a backpack or basic school supplies.
This is a virtual online self-help center for understanding the legal process. Its information clarifies how to handle your court case, whether you have a lawyer or not. This site offers information on court procedures, as well as forms and links to other important resources. There is information... continue reading
Updated 08/23_RV
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
Tenant Defenders is a law firm dedicated to representing tenants in disputes with their landlords. We specialize in eviction defense and preventing landlord's abusive practices.
Eligibility: Clients must be tenants, or facing eviction. We do not represent landlords.
Eligibility: Tenants in the Greater Los Angeles Area
We are a community Law Office located and practicing in San Diego, CA providing important and effective legal assistance, by an Attorney, to residential and commercial renters. Our goal is to provide an affordable resource for tenants and occupants to become educated and protected as to their... continue reading
Tenants Together is a statewide coalition of local tenant organizations dedicated to defending and advancing the rights of California tenants to safe, decent, and affordable housing. As California’s only statewide renters’ rights organization, Tenants Together works to improve the lives of... continue reading
Eligibility: Serves California tenants only
For questions concerning local rent control and just cause protections call the city's Rental Housing Helpline (the name of the Oridnance is Community Stablization and Fair Rent Act). There are also Walk in office hours at City Hall in the Public Works Front Conference Room (500 Castro Street) each... continue reading
Eligibility: City of Mountain View residents only.
We are a group of paralegals currently supervised by five (5) attorneys and one accountant. We've been in business for more than 30 years in the same location for more than 15 years and we offer competitive prices
Eligibility: Tenants being evicted in foreclosure actions by banks.
Andrew Wolff is an attorney working on behalf of injured people and tenants suing their landlord due to the poor conditions of their rental units. His practice is focused on personal injury and landlord-tenant litigation. Mr. Wolff has practiced law for twenty years, and has extensive experience in... continue reading
Eligibility: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM; Closed weekends
Q Foundation believes in a world where all people have a safe, decent, and affordable home.
Eligibility: Criteria for application eligibility: San Francisco resident; Have not accessed financial assistance from Q Foundation in the past 5 years; Income at or below 50% of the Area Median Income; Have been offered housing, or are at risk of losing existing housing.
The Renters Lawyer only represents Tenants (renters) and can help with almost any landlord/tenant situation or dispute. Defending evictions, writing demand letters, lease breaks, resolving disputes, and stopping lockouts are just a few of the services that I provide. I charge affordable, flat rate... continue reading
Eligibility: CA State Bar # 254352
Have exclusively practiced Tenant law since 2006.
The Renters Lawyer provides low cost, flat fee services for all renter issues, such as, evictions, demand letters and retraining orders.
The Law Office of David L. McCarthy only represents Tenants (renters) and can help with almost any landlord/tenant situation or dispute.
Many situations can be resolved with a consultation and a demand letter to Landlord (included in consult fee) to quickly resolve habitability, repair, harassment... continue reading
Eligibility: low cost, flat fee rates are charged.
Eligibility: FREE CONSULTATIONS
Tenants rights law firm, specializing in repairs, evictions, buyouts, harassment, and landlord-caused injuries.
Tenant lawyers serving San Jose, Oakland, San Francisco, Fremont, San Rafael, Berkeley and surrounding Bay Area cities. We stop landlord harassment, refusal to repair, and wrongful evictions. In rent-controlled jurisdictions, we fight illegal rent increases, landlord move-in evictions (OMIs and... continue reading
Urban Habitat believes that every Bay Area resident has the right to safe, decent, and affordable housing. Current housing policies foster chronic housing insecurity in many communities, and contribute to gentrification, displacement, and the suburbanization of poverty. We advance a regional... continue reading
Eligibility: No immigration status/documentation needed
USD Legal Clinics are funded by University of San Diego and, in part, by grants from the State Bar of California and the U.S. Department of Treasury.
Landlord Tenant: Represents clients in matters such as Superior Court unlawful detainer trials and in administrative hearings involving... continue reading
Eligibility: Services are available to lower income individuals. If you are interested in obtaining free assistance from USD Legal Clinics, or have any questions, please contact us at (619) 260-7470.
The Self-Help Legal Access Center provides informational assistance to self-represented litigants in the following types of civil cases:
1) Unlawful Detainer
2) Collection
3) Guardianship and Conservatorship
4) Civil Harassment Restraining Order
5) Name Change
6) Step-Parent Adoption
7)... continue reading
The Volunteer Legal Services Program of Northern California assists low-income clients by referring them to volunteer attorneys for direct representation, and by assisting self-represented parties at our legal clinics. VLSP examines cases within five areas:
1) Debt Collection Defense and Bankruptcy... continue reading
Eligibility: Must live in Sacramento or neighboring counties like El Dorado, Placer, San Joaquin, or Yolo. Must meet income and asset requirements, and must possess legal residence or citizenship documentation.
Our firm started in 1981 and focuses on tenant rights litigation, including wrongful evictions, affirmative habitability, including class actions. We also do some general real estate litigation. **This attorney is a member of the Tenant Lawyer Network of California (TLN). The TLN is a professional... continue reading
Eligibility: Mostly contingency. Some hourly.
We are a non-profit that provides emergency funds and supportive care to people in crisis or who have special needs and are unable to find assistance through any other means. We organize a variety of community events and programs for low-income families and individuals. We offer several resources... continue reading
Eligibility: Low-income/very-low income and no other resources available
Wolford Wayne LLP is a tenant’s rights law firm dedicated to representing Bay Area tenants. We represent tenants in wrongful eviction actions, tenant harassment, failure to repair, eviction defense and other related landlord tenant disputes. Almost all of our cases are handled on a contingency fee... continue reading
Eligibility: Bay Area tenants, No immigration status/documentation needed