Housing Justice Project – Seattle, WA

Critical Eviction Defense for King County Renters

The Housing Justice Project (HJP) is a vital legal aid program operated by the King County Bar Association, dedicated to preventing homelessness and protecting the rights of low-income tenants. Located directly inside the King County Courthouse in Downtown Seattle, HJP serves as a frontline defense for individuals and families facing the immediate threat of eviction. Unlike private law firms, this program provides free, accessible legal assistance to those who might otherwise navigate the complex court system alone.

Our office is situated in Room W-314 of the courthouse, making it easy for tenants to find help right where their cases are being heard. We believe that housing is a human right, and our team of staff attorneys and volunteer lawyers works tirelessly to keep people in their homes. If you are a tenant looking to find a lawyer because you have received an eviction notice, the Housing Justice Project is your most important resource.

Free Legal Services

We focus exclusively on eviction prevention and housing stability for low-income residents:

• Eviction Defense: Providing immediate legal counsel and representation for tenants facing unlawful detainer (eviction) lawsuits.
• Negotiation: working with landlords and their attorneys to reach agreements that allow tenants to stay in their homes or leave on their own terms.
• Legal Advice: Explaining your rights under Washington’s Residential Landlord-Tenant Act and helping you understand court papers.
• Rental Assistance Referrals: Connecting eligible tenants with local charities and government programs that can help pay back-rent.
• interpreters: Ensuring that non-English speakers have full access to justice through professional interpreter services.

A Community Safety Net

The Housing Justice Project is nationally recognized for its effective, court-based model. We provide ”real-time” legal help, meaning we often assist clients on the very day of their hearing. Our team is compassionate and culturally competent, offering services in multiple languages including Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin. We understand that facing eviction is terrifying, and we are here to stand beside you.

Eligibility for our services is generally based on income and the nature of your legal problem. We prioritize cases where a tenant is at imminent risk of losing their housing. By leveling the playing field in eviction court, we help maintain the fabric of our community and prevent the devastating cascade of problems that follows homelessness.

How to Get Help

If you have received an eviction notice, do not ignore it. Time is critical. Visit the Housing Justice Project during our walk-in clinic hours at the King County Courthouse. We are here to listen, to advise, and to fight for your right to a safe place to live.