Bet Tzedek Legal Services

As a recognized nonprofit force, Bet Tzedek provides free legal services, education and outreach, policy advocacy, and impact litigation. We are united in our mission to create equitable access to justice for all communities. Visit http://bettzedek.org to learn more. 

Millennials are a generous demographic, with about 84% reporting that they donate to charity, often through online platforms or peer-to-peer fundraising. Bet Tzedek is inspired by how younger generations #giveback and drive meaningful change in their communities, and would be honored if they considered donating to our cause of providing FREE legal services to the people of Los Angeles, particularly marginalized communities that don’t normally have access to these services. Join Bet Tzedek’s mission by donating or volunteering today: https://lnkd.in/dN8NVZ4N

Kim Selfon, Bet Tzedek’s IHSS & Medi-Cal Policy Specialist, provided input to the U.S. Department of Justice on behalf of our clients and Bet Tzedek on a lawsuit alleging that Los Angeles County violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by denying voters with disabilities an equal opportunity to participate in its voting programs, services, and activities by failing to use accessible polling places. Kim's input helped the DOJ reach a settlement with the County, pursuant to which the County will be required to work with an independent accessibility expert for three years to ensure that polling locations are accessible or can be made accessible through temporary measures during voting periods. The expert will also provide semiannual reports to both the County and the Justice Department. Thank you, Kim, for your excellent work! This resolution is a significant achievement and demonstrates our commitment to advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities.

Stand up for what matters — get out and vote today! The right to vote is considered a cherished freedom in American Democracy, but it is not one to which everyone has equal access. To this day, new laws are being put in place that could negatively impact marginalized communities, including low-income individuals, people of color, and the elderly — groups that Bet Tzedek proudly serves. Stand with us in protecting equal access to equality and justice for all by participating in the democratic process today! Have you voted yet?

👏VICTORY!👏 We want to recognize a major Bet Tzedek trial victory that took place last month. Bet Tzedek attorneys Emily Chong, Nicholas Lampros, Aimee Williams, and Taylor Amstutz — along with pro bono partner McDermott Will & Emer — received a favorable verdict in a jury trial for a case that attorney Anna Burns brought when she was part of the Homeowner Protection team. Our colleagues represented an 83-year-old widower fighting for his home, in a claim filed in state court for quiet title. As a result of their relentless advocacy, the jury returned a “yes” to all three questions on the verdict form. All issues before the jury were decided in our client's favor. From Mr. Lopez's declaration: "I ask the court to decide that I am the true owner of the house… That way I will be able to live freely in my own home. I miss my house and I want to return as soon as possible." This case is a beautiful example of how Bet Tzedek stands with clients and is willing to see a case through the end, to ensure justice prevails. It also shows the world of difference made for someone who would otherwise not have access to an advocate. With Bet Tzedek, we work with not just one advocate but an entire legal to team to ensure our clients’ rights are protected. Thank you to the Impact and Homeowner Protection teams for reminding us all why we do what we do. And congratulations to Mr. Lopez and your team!

🗳️ Election Day Reminder! Are you ready to exercise your right to vote tomorrow? You can do Same Day Voter Registration, if you are not registered, and still vote! https://lnkd.in/dtYpTRF Polling places and vote centers will be open statewide from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. While most drop-off locations are open until 8 p.m., please check your local listings. If you're returning your ballot via U.S. Mail, remember that it must be postmarked by November 5th and received by November 12th to count. Let us know if you're ready to vote!

Thank you to our pro bono partner Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP. With their support, the Employment Rights Project at Bet Tzedek is representing a survivor of human trafficking. Our client was tricked and coerced into working for a family for years, without pay. She was forced to clean, care for a young child, and work for their family business from the early morning to late in the evening. She experienced daily emotional and mental abuse in their home. Manatt and Bet Tzedek are dedicated to fighting for her rights and securing justice on her behalf. We are so grateful for Manatt's commitment, and dedication to providing legal services to those desperate situations.

For many renters in Los Angeles, apartment renovations are no cause for celebration. Instead of getting a brand new kitchen or bathroom, tenants know they’ll often be getting an eviction. But on Tuesday, the L.A. City Council decided to push back on these “renovictions.” The council voted 11-0 to get rid of a local provision allowing landlords to evict tenants in cases where “substantial remodel” work will take more than 30 days. Instead, landlords could soon be required to temporarily relocate tenants and let them return after renovations are complete. Read more in the article below!

November marks the beginning of Giving Season, when we collectively focus on generosity and helping those in need. Giving to a nonprofit organization like Bet Tzedek helps FREE provide essential legal services that improve the lives of marginalized Los Angeles residents. You can contribute to our mission by donating, volunteering, or spreading the word about our services. Every effort helps protect Angelenos from injustice. #Giveback to your community today: https://lnkd.in/dN8NVZ4N

Diwali, the “Festival of Lights,” has been celebrated for over 2,500 years by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. The festivities span from October 30th through November 1st this year, each day significant and rooted in ancient legends and traditions. This Diwali, consider celebrating by supporting a cause that’s meaningful to you. Your contributions can help spread light and positivity in your community! #Diwali #HappyDiwali