In November 2019, BASTA Universal began as a pilot program aimed at demonstrating that tenants achieve better outcomes when represented by an attorney, even if the attorney steps in at the last minute. The program ran for about 3.5 months before the pandemic led to court closures. As the pandemic caused a surge in eviction cases, the County and City of Los Angeles allocated funds for tenant representation. In response, the pilot program evolved into a full-fledged organization, and BASTA Universal was officially established in August 2020. BASTA Universal seeks to protect tenants’ rights and empower tenants across Los Angeles County by offering legal assistance, guidance, and high-quality legal representation. Through direct legal services and strategic litigation, we work to uphold every tenant’s right to safe, stable, and dignified housing. We believe housing is a human right and are a member of the County of Los Angeles’ Right to Counsel Coalition.















Join a team of highly motivated attorneys and agents of change to fight against corporate landlords and protect the rights of our gente.