A new law guaranteeing Baltimore renters the right to a lawyer in eviction cases is being hailed as a lifesaver, providing resources to keep people from losing their homes during a surging pandemic and historic economic downturn.

“So many people we work with are scared to make demands on their landlord because the landlord may retaliate with an eviction action,” said Tiffany Ralph, secretary of the Bolton House Residents Association. “Right to counsel gives support to residents who stand up for their right to live in safe, healthy housing.”

But while the needs amid Covid-19 are immediate, the bill signed into law last week by outgoing mayor Bernard C. “Jack” Young will take months – and perhaps years – to fully implement.

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