(LAKELAND, Fla.)- Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS) held an Eviction Prevention informational outreach event at the Dream Center of Lakeland on Wed., Aug. 16 at 3 p.m.
Attorneys at this outreach event, which was funded by the City of Lakeland, left attendees equipped with valuable insights and resources to navigate the complications that some may face during an eviction.
Legal representation in eviction cases makes an enormous difference. Tenants on their own typically struggle to raise legal arguments, identify applicable defenses, introduce evidence and navigate procedural obstacles. But nationally, landlords are four times more likely than tenants to be represented in eviction/landlord-tenant cases, and in many jurisdictions these imbalances are far more significant.
Without representation, most tenants will lose their cases and face eviction, according to Legal Services Corporation. Access to representation flips the odds, with a large majority of tenants able to delay or avoid eviction. Tenants with full representation win or favorably settle 96 percent of their disputes. And the benefits of representation extend beyond case outcomes: represented tenants are more than twice as likely to maintain their housing or secure additional time to find alternative accommodations. They are also more likely to avoid an eviction record.
FRLS Attorney Tamara Williams guided the attendees through this session with a passion for social justice. Williams stepped onto the stage, ready to unravel the complex topic of eviction prevention, a topic often covered in uncertainties and unanswered questions.
Reassuringly, Williams was able to give insightful information to attendees by explaining the most common issues surrounding eviction law. Frequently asked questions such as, "Can I withhold my rent if my landlord refuses to make repairs?" were a major part of the presentation. Attendees were encouraged to ask their own questions, resulting in a vibrant and dynamic discussion that clarified the subject.
Following the presentation, FRLS's dedicated team of attorneys extended their support to attendees by assisting in getting them started. Navigating the legal terrain can be daunting, but with FRLS by their side, attendees took their crucial first steps toward seeking the legal aid they deserve.
For what cause may a landlord evict a tenant?
- Nonpayment of rent
- Material breach
- Nuisance activity
- Remaining on property after expiration of lease
- Statutory tenant obligations
What is required to be in the notice?
- Reason for eviction
- Date rental agreement will terminate
- Amount owed
- Repercussions for failure to cure
How FRLS Can Help: If you or someone you know requires legal assistance, contact FRLS by calling 1-888-582-3410.
FRLS offers a range of Civil Legal Aid services to low-income individuals and families, ensuring that they receive the legal assistance necessary to navigate their legal challenges.
