Oregon Law Center Eviction Defense Project
Free eviction-defense lawyers for renters
What it pays or provides
The Eviction Defense Project doesn't pay you money -- it gives you free legal advice and, if you qualify, a lawyer to represent you in your eviction court case. In Multnomah County, help can start even before your case is filed if you've received a termination notice.
Who qualifies
You qualify if you're a low-income renter facing an eviction court case in Oregon. Oregon Law Center, which runs this project, helps people with incomes up to 125% of the federal poverty level, and can sometimes help people slightly above that level. They provide services regardless of your immigration status, and there's no immigration consequence to getting help from their office.
Income limits by household size
| People in your household | Monthly income limit (about) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,660 |
| 2 | $2,250 |
| 3 | $2,850 |
| 4 | $3,440 |
| 5 | $4,030 |
| 6 | $4,620 |
| 7 | $5,210 |
| 8 | $5,800 |
Limits shown are approximately 125% of the federal poverty guidelines, rounded — the program’s own table is the final word.
Where you have to live
This project covers renters facing eviction court cases anywhere in Oregon.
How other benefits affect it
You still have to show up in court even if you've applied for rent assistance. For rent assistance itself, contact 211info or apply directly through pplfirst.com -- the Eviction Defense Project no longer takes rent-assistance referrals itself. If you can't afford your court filing fees while defending your case, you can also ask the court to waive or delay them.
How to apply
Call 888-585-9638 as soon as you get an eviction notice or a court date -- have your case number and hearing date ready if you have them. You can also reach the intake message line at 833-746-8167, or fill out the online form on Oregon Law Center's website. Contact them before your first court appearance date; eviction cases move fast, so don't wait, and don't sign any settlement agreement with your landlord before talking to them first.
Go to the official page →or call 888-585-9638
Programs that combine with it
- Legal Aid Services of Oregon — free civil legal aid (LASO)
- Multnomah County Eviction Prevention / Emergency Rent Assistance — emergency rent help to stop eviction
Sources
- Oregon Law Help: Eviction Defense Project referral page
- Official rule text “The Eviction Defense Project provides free legal assistance to low-income tenants across the state facing eviction court cases.” (checked July 6, 2026)
- Official rule text “OLC helps people with incomes up to 125% of the federal poverty level. In some situations, OLC can help people slightly above this level.” (checked July 19, 2026)