Lawrence Residents Advocate for Tenant Right to Counsel Amid Rising Evictions

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners convened on September 3, 2025, to discuss pressing issues surrounding tenant rights and eviction processes, with a significant focus on the proposed implementation of a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction. This meeting highlighted the urgent need for legal representation in eviction cases, as community members voiced their concerns about the current imbalance in legal support between landlords and tenants.

A key point raised during the meeting was the alarming statistic that prior to the adoption of right to counsel in Kansas City, only 0.2% of contested eviction cases were decided in favor of tenants. In stark contrast, after the policy was implemented, that figure surged to 82%. This data underscores the potential impact of legal representation on the outcomes of eviction cases, suggesting that a substantial number of eviction filings may be legally deficient.

Community members, including former AmeriCorps member Jasmine Bates and Lawrence resident Micah Cox, shared personal experiences and data supporting the need for tenant representation. Bates emphasized the confusion many tenants face during the eviction process, particularly those who may not speak English fluently or are unfamiliar with legal procedures. Cox pointed out that over 400 evictions were filed in Douglas County last year, highlighting the urgent need for action to protect vulnerable families from homelessness.

Several speakers argued that the current system disproportionately favors landlords, who are represented by attorneys in 82% of eviction cases, while tenants have legal representation only 3% of the time. This disparity raises concerns about fairness in the eviction process and the broader implications for public health and community stability. The emotional and psychological toll of eviction was also discussed, with speakers noting that the trauma of losing one’s home can have lasting effects on individuals and families.

Landlords, such as James Dunn, raised concerns about the potential implications of a right to counsel for their operations, particularly regarding issues like squatting and disruptive tenants. However, many community members countered that the right to counsel is not about providing a free pass for tenants but rather ensuring equitable access to legal resources that can help prevent unjust evictions.

The meeting concluded with a call for the Board to place the right to counsel on the agenda for the upcoming October 1 meeting. Advocates urged the commissioners to act decisively, emphasizing that the data and community support for this initiative are strong. The discussions reflect a growing recognition of housing as a critical public health issue and the need for systemic changes to protect tenants' rights in Douglas County. As the community awaits the Board's decision, the urgency for action remains palpable, with many residents hopeful for a more equitable future in housing stability.