A bankruptcy judge in the Eastern District of Wisconsin’s federal court ruled this week that a tenant was entitled to a jury trial on her claims that her landlord discriminated against her and caused her emotional distress.
The tenant filed a federal lawsuit alleging that the landlord had violated Wisconsin housing laws by trying to change her lease to increase her rent, and then filing an eviction action against her, after the tenant notified the landlord that she was getting an emotional support dog. The tenant also alleged the landlord made racially discriminatory comments towards her.
The matter was set for a jury trial in late 2024, but shortly before the trial was to begin, the landlord filed for chapter 13 bankruptcy. The tenant asked the bankruptcy court to send the matter back to district court for a trial, and this week the bankruptcy court granted her order. A trial date has not been set yet.
The tenant is represented by Attorney Briane Pagel and Lawton Cates. Attorney Pagel has represented numerous tenants and consumers in cases against landlords and corporations that violate their rights, and has recovered hundreds of thousands of dollars for his clients. Lawton Cates is a leader in consumer protection law and works to protect the people of Wisconsin in all its cases. If you are having troubles with your landlord, contact Lawton Cates for a free consultation.
