Tenant Right to Counsel Project (TRCP)

Housing is a human right.

Eviction Defense Help

Maryland law provides eligible renters the right to a free attorney in eviction cases. Maryland Legal Aid may be able to provide free representation in your eviction case. A lawyer can find the right defense, stand with you in court, and help protect your home. Getting legal support can make a real difference and help you understand your rights.

Received a Notice? Get Help Now

If you are facing eviction, at risk of losing your housing voucher or subsidy, or having problems with your housing or landlord:

  • Call 2-1-1 to get connected to resources near you  
  • Call 1-888-465-2468 to see if you qualify for a free lawyer through Maryland Legal Aid. 

Court Case Tomorrow? Showing Up Matters 

If you live in any of these counties, you can go to the District Court where your case is scheduled and speak with an attorney before your hearing. Please arrive 30 minutes before the hearing time on your notice (also called a complaint and summons) to allow time to discuss your case. 

  • Allegany
  • Anne Arundel
  • Baltimore County
  • Baltimore City
  • Carroll
  • Cecil
  • Charles
  • Frederick
  • Farrett
  • Howard
  • Montgomery
  • Prince George’s
  • St. Mary’s
  • Washington
  • Wicomico

Why Showing Up Matters 

If you have received an eviction notice, or notice threatening eviction, or your landlord has accused you of something, don’t wait. If you show up, you may be able to:

  • Stay in your home longer  
  • Work out a payment plan  
  • Get time to move safely  
  • Raise concerns about repairs or unsafe conditions  
  • Request a postponement to get assistance from an attorney

A lawyer can stand with you in court and help you understand your options. 

Who Qualifies for Representation

  • Those who have vouchers, subsidies, or live in public housing 
  • Low-income families in any housing, including mobile homes 
  • Older adults of any income (60+) 

Know Your Rights – A notice does not mean you have to leave

In Maryland, your landlord must follow the law and go through the court process to evict you. They must wait until a judge says they have the right to have the property back. Landlords cannot:

  • Evict you or change the locks without a court order.  
  • Remove you or your belongings themselves. Evictions must be carried out by the Sheriff’s Office (or Constable in Baltimore County).  
  • Shut off utilities or ignore unsafe conditions to force you out of your home.  

When a Lawyer Can Help

You may qualify for free legal help if your landlord has filed any of the following cases against you:

  • Failure to Pay Rent.  (Your landlord says you owe rent.) 
  • Breach of Lease.  (Your landlord says you broke the rules in your lease.) 
  • Tenant Holding Over.  (Your landlord says your lease has ended, they gave you notice to leave, and you refuse to leave the property.) 
  • Voucher or Subsidy Termination.  (Your voucher program or landlord says you broke the program rules.)

A lawyer can explain your rights, help you prepare your case, and speak on your behalf. You have options, even if you don’t think you do. 

Watch – How Legal Help Has Made a Difference 

Resources

PROGRAMA DE ACCESO A ASESORAMIENTO EN CASOS DE DESALOJO EN MARYLAND!

About the Tenant Right to Counsel Project

The Tenant Right to Counsel Project (TRCP) is Maryland Legal Aid’s implementation of Maryland’s Access to Counsel in Evictions law. We’re building a model where your right to a lawyer is widely known, easily accessible, and is a vehicle for community empowerment. 

TRCP works with you, not just for you. We’re following your lead on what matters most, prioritizing solutions that truly help, and working to create lasting change for renters across Maryland. 

Tenant Right to Counsel Project Career Opportunities

The MLA Tenants’ Right to Counsel Project is currently hiring attorneys and paralegals across the state.  Come work where it matters most and be part of the solution! Apply today!

In need of help or looking for more information? Call today to work with a representative and see if you qualify.

For more information, call Maryland Legal Aid’s Centralized Intake at 1-888-465-2468.

The Access to Counsel in Eviction Program is administered by Maryland Legal Services Corporation.