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Finding suitable housing in Boston's tight market is difficult. However, if you are a woman, a member of a minority group, have children or receive public assistance, this difficulty may be compounded by the added burden of housing discrimination. Discrimination can range from subtle to blatant: a realtor steering you away from renting in a particular neighborhood, for example, or a flat refusal to rent you an apartment. Housing discrimination is illegal in Massachusetts if done on the basis of age, blindness, children, marital status, national origin, race, receipt of public assistance, religion or sex. The City of Cambridge has also included color, disability, sexual orientation, family status, military status or source of income. It is, however, not illegal to discriminate against students because of their age. If you have a question, or believe you have been a victim of housing discrimination, you may contact the following organizations for assistance:
Web resources:
Sites to register problems with landlords, property management and real estate companies:
If you are having
problems with your landowner or have questions concerning your rights
as a tenant, you should contact your local tenant organization.
There are a number of agencies in the Boston area that provide legal assistance to low-income people. Students can qualify for legal aid but are required to fill out an eligibility questionnaire in order to meet the qualifications. For further information, contact the following agencies:
Small Claims Court is a "people's court" designed to settle everyday consumer disputes in Massachusetts. Small Claims Court is intended to be informal and inexpensive, where the average citizen can present his/her case and receive a fast and fair hearing. Small Claims Courts are designed to be as accessible as possible; you are not required to have a lawyer in order to sue. Once the claim is filed, the Clerk of Courts will notify the defending party(s) of the hearing date. In Cambridge, there is usually a five to six week wait between the filing of the claim and the scheduling of the hearing. In Boston, this could take up to one year. Contact the District Court on your community for further information. MIT Campus Police can also offer advice and assistance on preparation for your claim. Small Claims Courts in surrounding towns:
If you have a legal problem and need to consult a lawyer, the following organizations will provide referrals:
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