New Right to Counsel Eviction Help program launched in Oklahoma City
OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) - A new Right to Counsel Eviction Help pilot program has been launched in Oklahoma City, aimed at providing legal information, assistance and representation to tenants as soon as they are at risk of eviction.
Locally, the program is a joint effort between Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Inc (LASO), the Community Cares Foundation of Oklahoma, and Community Cares Partners and is part of a growing movement of similar programs across the country. The goal is to ensure that renters facing circumstances impacting housing stability have access to early intervention.
"We know that access to legal information and representation is critical for tenants at risk of eviction," said Michael Figgins, LASO Executive Director. "The Right To Counsel program will help level the playing field for tenants and provide them with the legal support they need to stay in their homes."
Under the program, tenants should contact Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma as soon as issues or uncertainties arise. Renters will be provided with information about their legal rights, assistance with negotiations with their landlords, and when needed, a lawyer to represent them at eviction proceedings. The program is focused first on providing tenants with education on their right to seek legal advice and representation in such situations, commonly known as a person’s “right to counsel.”
“Tenants throughout the city are dealing with landlords who aren't making repairs, who are trying to collect improper fees, and who are violating the Fair Housing Act. They need an attorney for more than just defending evictions, and our services can help improve housing conditions and avoid unjust outcomes.” said Greg Beben, staff attorney in LASO’s Oklahoma City legal office.
The pilot program is available to tenants in the 73111 and 73119 Zip Codes but the goal is to expand Right to Counsel programs to all tenants in Oklahoma City. Tenants at risk of eviction should contact Legal Aid at (405) 554-4636 as soon as issues with housing or their landlord arise.
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