Story of Justice: Keeping a Home—and a Lifeline—Through Legal Help

Midway through his lease, Harris, a senior with limited mobility, found himself in a confusing and dangerous situation: his landlord stopped accepting his rent payments. No matter how hard he tried to pay, he was turned away. This put him at serious risk of eviction—an outcome that would cause him to lose his Section 8 housing voucher, his only way to afford a place to live.

Because Harris has limited mobility, it was even more critical that he stay in stable housing. On top of the rent issues, there was another complication: while the lease said he’d be in a studio, Harris originally requested a one-bedroom apartment, but none were available. Now, the unit number listed on his lease didn’t match the apartment he was actually living in.

Just days before he was set to be served with an eviction notice, Harris called Coast to Coast Legal Aid of South Florida (CCLA) for help. Those few days made all the difference. CCLA attorneys quickly stepped in, began negotiating with the landlord’s attorney, and helped broker a repayment plan. Thanks to the support of CCLA’s community partner, a large portion of the back rent and legal fees were covered.

Still, one key question remained: what was the correct unit number? The lease and eviction paperwork said one thing, but both Harris and the landlord’s rent records said another. This issue could have been used as a defense in court—but CCLA focused on resolving the situation before it reached that point. After investigating, both parties agreed on the correct unit number and worked out a fair settlement.

Harris now has the time he needs to pay his rent in manageable monthly installments, and the threat of the looming eviction has been lifted. Thanks to quick legal action and a collaborative effort, he was able to keep his home—and his independence.