Jillian Marullo Comments on Houston’s Pro Bono Efforts Amid Eviction Crisis

A survey conducted by Rice University’s Kinder Institute for Urban Research found that a majority of respondents supported the investment of public dollars toward initiatives that would ensure everyone facing legal eviction has legal representation. However, Houston-area legal practitioners expressed concerns that, even if funds were available, the supply of available lawyers would still fall short to handle the rising number of eviction cases.

Environmental & Natural Resources special counsel Jillian Marullo, who is currently serving as pro bono counsel on an eviction case with Houston Volunteer Lawyers, noted that the tight window for eviction trials makes these cases particularly challenging.

 “The laws are very friendly to landlords and the timing for eviction cases is very short,” Marullo said. “When you have up to 400 eviction cases being heard in one day across Houston courts, the need for volunteer lawyers is immense.”

“Another problem is the tenants that I’ve talked to are so afraid for an eviction to be filed because it goes on their record permanently, even if they go to court and win. Whether it’s getting that policy changed or making the law a bit friendlier for tenants, there’s a lot to be done,” she said.

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Pillsbury’s pro bono mission focuses on access to justice, the protection of civil rights and aid to the indigent. Pillsbury’s pro bono practice is as varied as the lawyers’ interests. In addition to high-impact litigation, the firm provides basic legal services to the poor, including those facing eviction or in need of affordable housing. Pillsbury represents refugees seeking asylum, victims of domestic violence and veterans in administrative proceedings. The firm also counsels nonprofit and community organizations on their legal issues.