“My practice, although focused on affordable housing and community development, involves project financing and development. In contrast, the Legal Clinic provides the opportunity to work directly with individuals in need. That personal connection is very rewarding and is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.” – Stephen Nolan, Partner, Nolan Sheehan Patten
Attorney Steve Nolan, a Partner at Nolan Sheehan Patten, met Brian*, an elderly homeless man, in 2016 while volunteering with the Massachusetts Legal Clinic for the Homeless.
Brian was living in Long Island Shelter after financial hardship left him unable to pay his rent in full for a number of months, resulting in eviction and a judgment for unpaid rent. He had recently applied for subsidized housing through the Boston Housing Authority (BHA), but his application had been rejected due to his eviction record, which the BHA believed showed an inability or unwillingness to comply with terms of his lease.
Nolan Sheehan Patten helped Brian set up a payment plan to resolve his outstanding debt. Steve then assisted Brian with his appeal of BHA’s denial of housing. In the meantime, he encouraged Brian to apply for housing through other sources, including the Metropolitan Boston Housing Partnership (MBHP).
The BHA ultimately denied Brian’s appeal, but because Brian had settled his debt with his former landlord, he was able to secure affordable housing through MBHP and is now housed.
*Client’s name has been changed to protect privacy.
