10/3/2007

Tai Glenn, Directing Attorney of the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles' Housing Unit, and attorneys Paul B. Salvaty, Catalina J. Vergara, and Shannon Keast of the pro bono law firm O'Melveny & Myers LLP successfully represented 32 tenants against their slumlord for forcible detainer, wrongful eviction, and negligent infliction of emotional distress. Four of the tenants had leases that awarded attorneys' fees to the prevailing party in any civil action "in connection with" the lease.

In a decision certified for publication, the California Court of Appeal upheld an award of nearly $124,000 in attorneys' fees to the four tenants. In addition the Court noted that the decision should not be construed as supporting the trial court's judgment to reduce the fee request because O'Melveny took the case pro bono. "[O]ur research uncovered no case in which a trial court reduced a fee award simply because of the 'pro bono type of work' involved."

To read the decision, click here.