Small claims court can be confusing, yet sometimes it’s the best path to solve small legal issues. For example, tenants sometimes need to take their landlord to small claims court over issues like withheld security deposits or unaddressed repairs. If you’re navigating small claims court, you may be looking for
Here is some information and answers to common questions about safety planning, especially for our immigrant communities. What is a safety plan?A safety plan is a community resource to help parents prepare for emergencies. The plan contains important documents and instructions for the care of their child(ren) if a parent
Everyone has legal rights in the United States, regardless of immigration status. If you are concerned about being separated from your children in the event of a deportation, we recommend reviewing the Immigration Safety Plan created by Legal Counsel for Youth & Children: in English and en Español. Additional resources
“I received a Pay-or-Vacate Notice from my landlord. What do I do now?” This is a frequent question we get from tenants in King County. It can feel scary and intimidating to receive this type of notice. ELAP is here to help renters understand their legal rights. Listen to our
If you are a renter in the city of Kirkland, you have protections under Ordinance O-4810. Here’s a summary of what you should know about your rights as a tenant: Rent increase notices: Move-in fees: Good to know: What to do next or how to get help: Thank you to
If you are a renter in the city of Redmond, you have protections under Ordinance 3091AM, which took effect in 2022. Here’s a summary of what you should know about your rights as a tenant: Rent increase notices: Move-in fees: Late fees: Good to know: What to do next or
Written by Meg Rutherford, ELAP Summer InternEdited by ELAP staff Washington state HB 1564 went into effect on July 23, which bans the sale of over-the-counter sexual assault kits. This new law offers protection to survivors of sexual assault who may have otherwise been taken advantage of by offers of
Two new bills passed in the Washington state legislature this year that will affect tenants across the region. Here’s what you need to know: SB 5197 will allow people to testify remotely in landlord-tenant cases, at the court’s discretion. The bill allows a delay in the enforcement of a judgement
By Logan Winn, ELAP InternReviewed by Ashley Cummins, ELAP Housing Attorney Changes are coming to some pandemic-era housing programs—and renters need to be prepared. The “Eviction Resolution Pilot Program” will expire on July 1 and the “Requirement to Offer Reasonable Repayment Plan” expired April 30. The big takeaway for
By Evan Yi, ELAP intern Dealing with debt can be challenging and often scary. Here are a few of the best online and local resources to help you handle debt and get back on your feet: Washington Law Help Washington Law Help provides a comprehensive review of the law on
