When TK came to AVLF in 2024, she had already been illegally removed from her home by her landlord.
The lockout left her without access to the property and belongings she had worked hard to acquire. What she lost represented more than household items. It represented time, money, stability, and the ability to feel secure in her own home.
AVLF stepped in to help TK hold her landlord accountable. Her case proceeded to a bench trial, where an AVLF attorney presented evidence of the harm she experienced and sought compensation for the value of her lost property.
Determining that value was a critical part of the case. AVLF partnered with a volunteer forensic consultant who carefully assessed TK’s property and testified at trial. The consultant explained why the actual or replacement value of the items was the most appropriate way to calculate TK’s losses.
That expert testimony helped the court understand the full financial impact of the landlord’s actions. At the conclusion of the trial, AVLF secured a judgment of more than $54,000 for TK in compensatory and punitive damages.
What began with TK being illegally removed from her home ended with her voice being heard and her landlord held accountable. With AVLF and a dedicated volunteer by her side, TK secured a result that honored the value of what had been taken from her.