Elizabeth “Lizzy” Coltrane is a BRLS housing law attorney and Virginia native who has helped nearly 700 clients in her four years with BRLS. See what some of her clients said about her and learn a little more about her below in this month’s “attorney interview!”

“Mrs. Coltrane was the BEST! We saw her go well beyond what was expected and were very happy with the outcome. Thank you!”

“[Working with] Elizabeth Coltrane was the best experience you could ever have. She took my case and kept me informed daily and I never had one worry. She took care of it- she is the best!”

Question and Answer:

Why do you work in legal aid?

I work in legal aid because I believe that the legal system should protect all people, not just those who can afford an attorney.

What’s the most rewarding part about your job, and what’s the hardest?

The most rewarding parts of my job are helping people who have been treated unfairly, being a voice to the Court on matters it had not previously considered and assisting people who have historically had a lack of support in their lives.

The hardest part of my job is navigating the laws that often benefit landlords instead of tenants.

Is there a case that stands out in your mind as something that was particularly rewarding?

There was a Circuit Court case that was particularly rewarding because the tenant’s situation was very typical. Low-income tenants often get into unbalanced rental agreements where the landlords hold most of the power. The leases are often written in favor of the landlords and don’t provide much security to the tenants. Landlords can use their leases and their knowledge of the eviction process to scare tenants into not fighting for themselves. Tenants deserve and need our help because we can help balance everything out to make sure the tenants’ rights are being respected and protected. 

In this case, the client had redeemed (paid all rent owed) but the landlord just felt like evicting her anyway and moved forward with the eviction despite the law stating he was no longer able to do that.  We were able to get through the appeal process and have the eviction dismissed.

What do you wish people knew about legal aid?

I wish people knew that we are actually “real” attorneys.  We do not charge our clients to represent them, but we do get paid. We try just as hard (if not harder) than an attorney in a more traditional firm.

What’s an interesting fact most people don’t know about you?

An interesting fact that most people don’t know about me is that I have run at least 7 half marathons.

Anything else we should know?

It’s cool to be kind.