The 2026 state legislative session is moving at a rapid pace, with several critical bills currently being debated. We are keeping an eye on legislation that could impact tenants, survivors, and vulnerable families ELAP serves. Here are some bills worth watching: The legislature provides many ways to engage during the
By Annika Hauer, ELAP Intern Civil legal aid is legal advice for folks facing “civil” legal situations: domestic violence, housing charges or evictions, medical bills, immigration cases, and more. Civil legal aid is free, and it exists for people whom the legal system is not set up to support. InvestigateWest
Navigating the immigration system can be overwhelming—especially for youth and young adults who may be facing it for the first time. Whether you’re applying for DACA, figuring out your rights during an encounter with immigration officials, or seeking help with school and employment opportunities, having accurate, trustworthy information is essential.
A new rent stabilization law (HB 1217) went into effect in Washington state in May. The law sets a limit on how much a landlord may increase a tenant’s rent over a 12-month period. The Attorney General’s Office will enforce the law, and tenants may also take action to protect
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
