Tenant Representation Pilot Project

The Tenant Representation Pilot Project (TRP) started in November 2024 with funding from the State of Vermont. The pilot project provides representation to income-eligible tenants in Windsor County and Lamoille County who have been served with an eviction complaint. This is a point in the eviction process when quick action is necessary to protect a tenant’s rights.

TRP’s attorneys work to protect the rights of tenants faced with eviction and ensure they have due process.

Tenants in Windsor County and Lamoille County who were served with a Complaint for Eviction (or know that one was filed) should contact Vermont Legal Aid as soon as possible. TRP may be able to help them with the eviction case for free. Many residents will be eligible for help. Tenants should reach out to learn more.

Effects of eviction

Eviction upends the lives of people who are housed and want to keep their home, but are forced to leave by a legal process. Evictions can create enormous stress, health issues, and lasting legal and housing problems. When we represent tenants, we make sure they have due process in the eviction process.

As a social determinant of health, “evictions are considered by experts to be among the most deleterious sources of housing instability in that they often come about suddenly, create extreme financial strain and stress, and carry lasting legal consequences that can preclude families from accessing quality, affordable housing in the future.” Source: Jacky M. Jennings, PhD, MPH and Kathryn M. Leifheit, MSPH