Why People Who Face Losing Their Homes in Legal Proceedings Must Have a Right to Counsel

Authors

Andrew Scherer, Legal Services for New York City

Abstract

The article advocates for the establishment of a right to counsel for individuals facing eviction in New York City's Housing Court, arguing that such a right is essential for fair legal proceedings, aligns with constitutional principles of due process and equal protection, and is cost-effective in preventing homelessness and reducing societal costs. The author emphasizes that the current system disproportionately disadvantages low-income tenants, who often lack legal representation, and draws on international precedents where such rights are recognized.

Disciplines

Civil Rights and Discrimination | Constitutional Law | Housing Law | Law

Recommended Citation

Andrew Scherer, Why People Who Face Losing Their Homes in Legal Proceedings Must Have a Right to Counsel, 3 Cardozo Pub. L. Pol’y & Ethics J. 699 (2006).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cplpej/vol3/iss3/5