Fish & Richardson Secures Rare Pro Bono Jury Trial Victory Protecting D.C. Family from Eviction and Awarding Substantial Rent Abatement

After two years of dedicated representation, Fish & Richardson has secured an extraordinary pro bono jury trial victory in Washington, D.C., Superior Court. In December 2025, Fish successfully defended its client, Ms. Jynnifer Thompson, against eviction and prevailed on a rare counterclaim for rent abatement. The verdict not only keeps the client and her child in their home but also provides “life-changing” financial relief and stability.

Specifically, the jury rejected all claims brought by the landlord and found that Fish’s client owed no unpaid rent. The jury further determined that the apartment had serious and ongoing habitability issues and awarded rent abatements tied directly to the periods during which those conditions persisted. Following the verdict, the court ordered the release of more than $15,000 in escrowed funds to Ms. Thompson, with additional recovery accounting for nearly all rent since 2020.

“We are proud to have helped secure justice for our client after years of unsafe living conditions,” said Fish Principal Joel Couenhoven. “This verdict affirms her right to safe, habitable housing and reflects the jury’s recognition of the real-world impact these conditions had on her and her family.”

Ms. Thompson and her child, who has a disability, moved into their Washington, D.C. apartment complex in 2020. Shortly thereafter, they began experiencing severe housing conditions, including chronic pest infestations, malfunctioning smoke detectors that frequently sounded without cause, mold growth, and other safety hazards. Despite repeated requests for repairs, the landlord failed to meaningfully address these issues. The conditions had an especially profound impact on Ms. Thompson’s child, who has a heightened sensitivity to environmental disruptions.

Eviction proceedings were initiated after Ms. Thompson withheld rent in response to the unresolved conditions. Legal Aid DC, a pro bono partner of Fish, connected Ms. Thompson with Fish for pro bono representation. The matter ultimately proceeded to a jury trial, an exceptionally rare occurrence for eviction cases involving rent abatement claims in the District of Columbia. This case marks what may be the first jury trial of its kind in a decade in D.C. Fish extends special thanks to Legal Aid DC for their continued support and guidance throughout this case.

The trial team included Joel Couenhoven, Richard Sterba, R. Andrew Schwentker, Caroline “Gracie” Koonce, and James Cowan, supported by attorneys and staff across the firm.

Fish attorneys are dedicated to serving the communities in which they live and work, and pro bono work is an integral part of the firm’s professional culture. Fish believes that the practice of law is a privilege that carries with it the responsibility to provide pro bono legal services to those in need.