Phoenix residents demand right to counsel to combat rising eviction crisis

During the Phoenix City Council's budget hearing on April 5, 2025, a pressing issue dominated discussions: the urgent need for a right to counsel program for tenants facing eviction. Community members passionately voiced their concerns about the rising homelessness crisis in Phoenix, highlighting the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, including the disabled, elderly, and low-income families.

Speakers shared heart-wrenching personal stories, illustrating the devastating effects of eviction and the lack of legal representation for tenants. One resident described how a significant rent increase from a new landlord left her disabled sister-in-law in a state of despair, relying on family support to stay in her home. Another speaker, a veteran involved in the "Take Back Our Homes" campaign, criticized the council for record-high eviction rates, urging them to prioritize funding for legal assistance to prevent further displacement.

Tina Jabilian, a homeowner and landlord, emphasized that homelessness is fundamentally a housing issue, not a policing problem. She argued that investing in a right to counsel program would not only protect tenants but also save the city money in the long run by reducing the costs associated with homelessness and evictions. Citing successful programs in cities like Philadelphia and Cleveland, she urged the council to allocate funds from the general budget to implement similar initiatives in Phoenix.

The statistics presented were alarming: in 2024, Maricopa County recorded 87,000 eviction filings, with a staggering 94% of landlords having legal representation compared to less than 1% of tenants. This stark imbalance highlights the systemic failures in the current housing system, prompting calls for immediate action from the council.

As the meeting concluded, community members expressed hope that their voices would lead to meaningful change. They urged the council to recognize housing as a human right and to take decisive steps to ensure that all residents have access to legal support in eviction proceedings. The council's response to these urgent pleas could shape the future of housing stability in Phoenix, making it a pivotal moment for the city's leadership.