Free Legal Advice For Those Facing Foreclosure

Hundreds of lawyers in Washington state have agreed to give free legal assistance to try to keep homeowners from foreclosure.

Governor Christine Gregoire announced a new statewide initiative Wednesday, the Home Foreclosure Legal Aid Project, to provide free legal help to keep families in their homes.

Eva Buck now lives in Ballard, but used to live in West Seattle before she fell behind in payments. She lost her home a few years ago to people who promised to rescue her from foreclosure. Buck used the free legal advice and was able to sue the scam artists.

"They helped us be able to get some money back. Kinda hurt them a little bit instead of us being hurt," Buck said.

Gregoire said that not all foreclosures can be stopped, but she said trained lawyers can help with lenders to find alternatives.

"All too often people, when they get a foreclosure notice don't know what to do and they can't afford to get any help. Here's an opportunity now to get the best help they can get, at no charge to them, to see them through this tough time," Gregoire said.

Gregoire said, "We are in a crisis when it comes to foreclosures."

Nearly 270 lawyers have signed up to help distressed homeowners keep their homes, but the president of the Washington State Bar Association predicts that number will grow to 500 as more attorneys learn about the project.

For help on foreclosures, call the toll-free number: 1-877-894-HOME (4663).