Day Pitney Files Suit Against Predatory Landlords; Pro Bono Representation of Connecticut Fair Housing Center Cites History of Defendants' Discriminatory Practices

Day Pitney LLP has filed suit on behalf of the Connecticut Fair Housing Center, Inc. (CFHC), alleging discriminatory practices by the owner and manager of residential buildings in the Hartford area. This action, which Day Pitney is handling on a pro bono basis, follows a multi-month investigation of local landlords by the CFHC that uncovered continued violations of federal and state antidiscrimination statutes.

The suit, filed in U.S. District Court, alleges discrimination against applicants based on their source of income. The defendants repeatedly rejected individuals seeking to rent homes from them because they either attempted to use state assistance programs or disability benefits to pay their rent or security deposit, or they could not demonstrate they were employed.

"Thanks to the hard work of nearly a dozen lawyers at Day Pitney, we filed this complaint in order to correct the injustice being done to members of the Hartford community. The source of their income should have never been an issue," said David J. Elliott, a partner at Day Pitney who is representing the CFHC. "We are proud to be affiliated with the Connecticut Fair Housing Center, as it underscores Day Pitney's commitment to pro bono work and helping those in our community who might not otherwise be able to obtain the legal representation they need."

As part of its investigation, the CFHC uncovered a consistent pattern of discriminatory conduct by the defendants. The suit seeks both compensatory and punitive damages.

"Day Pitney's involvement in this case gives us the litigation support we need to address the housing discrimination that is so prevalent in this state," said Erin Kemple, executive director of the CFHC. "With its deep roots in Hartford, the firm knows the legal system better than many, and we are grateful for the assistance of its talented lawyers."

About the Connecticut Fair Housing Center
The Connecticut Fair Housing Center is a statewide, non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring equal housing opportunity for everyone in Connecticut and to affirmatively furthering the cause of fair housing. The Center investigates violations of federal and state fair housing statutes, and it works to eliminate the barriers to fair housing in Connecticut.

About Day Pitney
Day Pitney LLP is a full-service law firm with approximately 350 attorneys operating in offices in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Boston, and Washington, DC. The firm offers clients strong corporate and litigation practices, with experience on behalf of large national and international corporations, as well as emerging and middle market companies and individuals.