Right to Counsel: City of LA

What is a Right to Counsel (RTC) in eviction cases?

A right to counsel provides a free lawyer to represent you in your unlawful detainer (eviction) case. 

Who has a Right to Counsel in Los Angeles?

Tenants who:

• Live in the City of Los Angeles 
• Are low income
• Have an active eviction case filed against them 
• Live in a priority ZIP code
• OR their subsidized housing (Section 8, public housing) is being terminated

What is a priority ZIP code and how are they chosen? 

There are more evictions filed in the City of Los Angeles than attorneys available to assist tenants. Stay Housed LA is prioritizing tenants who live in highly vulnerable ZIP codes. New ZIP codes are added each January as the program’s capacity to represent tenants grows. See a list of current priority ZIP codes here: stayhousedla.org/priority-zip-codes 

What should I do if I receive an eviction lawsuit (unlawful detainer)? 

• You should NOT move out of your home until ordered by the court or sheriff to do so. 

• You should NOT ignore the eviction lawsuit (“unlawful detainer”) or you will automatically LOSE and have to move.

• When you get an eviction, you need to file an answer within 10 court days. 

  • You can use this tool to produce an answer here: https://tools.debtcollective.org/ or 

  • Visit a self-help center at a nearby courthouse. For help locating self-help centers: https://dcba.lacounty.gov/legal-access-centers/

• Eviction cases move quickly. Please contact SHLA to apply for assistance as soon as you are served with eviction court paperwork.

• If you receive anything from the court about an “unlawful detainer” go to court to pick up paperwork. 

• Apply for free legal representation here: stayhousedla.org/get-legal-help