Our colleagues at Gwilliam, Ivary, Chiosso, Cavalli & Brewer, A Professional Corporation, along with their co-counsel, recently obtained an award of $658,000 for their clients, former residents of the Hacienda public housing project located in Richmond, California.
For years, the residents, most of which are elderly and disabled, complained to the City about the deplorable living conditions in the housing unit. There was mold in a fifth of the units, and roof leaks so severe stalactites formed causing leaks in the 6th-floor ceiling. Inspection reports of the property revealed exposed wiring, with smoke detectors and fire alarms either missing or inoperable. Almost half of the apartments were infested with mice and cockroaches. One of the plaintiff’s, a 78-year-old woman, was forced to sleep with the lights on in fear of mice biting her while she slept. She continues to have nightmares.
The former residents did not live in the housing authority for free. According to HUD, approximately 90% of them paid between $200 and $500 a month and had limited housing options available. An investigation into the deplorable conditions began in 2014. The investigation led to the eventual lawsuit brought about by our friends at Gwilliam, Ivary, Chiosso, Cavalli & Brewer, and their co-counsel, against The City of Richmond and the Richmond Housing Authority.
The proceedings were extensive and lengthy, and eventually justice prevailed with the $658,000 award. The former residents will soon be able to rebuild their lives and put this trauma behind them.
Randy Strauss said of the settlement:
“We are very happy for these clients, who have been through hell. They’re universally thrilled to be finally vindicated for standing up for their rights.”
Read more about this case here.
Congratulations to Gwilliam, Ivary, Chiosso, Cavalli & Brewer on a job well done!
Advocate Capital, Inc. is proud of to support Plaintiff Law firms for the work they do in their communities to make it a safe and healthy place for all of their neighbors.
Executive Client Manager II
