Eviction Defense Network – Los Angeles, CA

Standing as the Shield Against Displacement

The Eviction Defense Network (EDN) is a powerhouse non-profit law firm dedicated to protecting the right to housing in Los Angeles. Founded in 2003 by the tenacious attorney and activist Elena Popp, EDN was created to fill the massive gap in legal representation for tenants facing eviction. In a city where thousands of families are displaced annually, EDN serves as a critical line of defense, believing that access to justice should not depend on one’s ability to pay. The firm operates on a unique model that combines professional legal advocacy with community organizing, empowering tenants to fight back against unjust removals.

The Tenant Empowerment Program

Unlike traditional law firms, EDN utilizes a revolutionary approach known as the Tenant Empowerment Program (TEP). This initiative educates tenants on their rights and the legal process, enabling them to actively participate in their own defense. The firm handles high-volume litigation with a focus on:

• Unlawful Detainers: providing expert defense against eviction lawsuits, from the initial 3-day notice to jury trials.
• Sliding Scale Representation: Offering legal services based on income, ensuring that working-class families and low-income individuals can afford high-quality counsel.
• Emergency Stays: Filing immediate motions to stop lockouts for tenants who have already received a Sheriff’s notice to vacate.
• Habitability Claims: Defending tenants who are being evicted in retaliation for complaining about slum conditions or requesting necessary repairs.

A History of Advocacy

Under the leadership of Elena Popp, who has over three decades of experience in housing law, EDN has successfully represented tens of thousands of Angelenos. The firm is widely recognized for its "18 Steps to Victory" strategy, a comprehensive roadmap designed to guide tenants through the complex court system. The team is comprised of dedicated attorneys, paralegals, and activists who are fluent in multiple languages, ensuring that the diverse population of Los Angeles receives culturally competent representation.

Located in Historic Downtown

EDN is headquartered in the Broadway Spring Arcade Building in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. This central location allows the firm to be in close proximity to the Stanley Mosk Courthouse, where many eviction cases are heard. Whether you are facing a rent increase, harassment from a landlord, or an imminent court date, the Eviction Defense Network provides the aggressive, knowledgeable, and compassionate support needed to keep families in their homes.

Join the fight for your home. Contact the Eviction Defense Network immediately if you have received an eviction notice.