1. Immediate Legal Help (Free) If you have received an eviction notice or a court summons, contact legal aid immediately. They can often provide free advice or representation if you meet income requirements.  • Eviction Legal Helpline: Call 1-833-NOEvict (1-833-663-8428). This is a statewide toll-free number for tenants to speak with a lawyer.  • Virginia Legal Aid: Call 1-866-LEGL-AID (1-866-534-5243) or visit VALegalAid.org to find your local office. • Legal Aid Justice Center: Visit justice4all.org for resources specifically for low-income tenants and those in public housing. 2. Financial Assistance Programs vary by county, but these are the best starting points for emergency funds: • Dial 2-1-1: Call 2-1-1 or visit 211virginia.org. Operators can connect you with local charities, churches, and government programs that provide one-time emergency rent assistance. • Virginia Rent Relief Program (RRP): Check the DHCD website for the current status of state-level relief funds. • Local Human Services: If you are in a major area, contact your specific county's emergency services: • Fairfax: Coordinated Services Planning (703-222-0880)  • Arlington: Department of Human Services (703-228-1300)  • Richmond/Henrico: Housing Resource Line (804-422-5061)  3. Your Critical Legal Rights In Virginia, a landlord cannot legally force you out without following a specific court process.  • No "Self-Help" Evictions: It is illegal for a landlord to change your locks, cut off your utilities, or remove your belongings without a court order and a sheriff present.  • The 14-Day Notice: If the eviction is for non-payment, the landlord must give you a written 14-day notice to pay or quit before they can even file a lawsuit.  • Right of Redemption: You have a "Right of Redemption." This means if you can pay all back rent, late fees, attorney fees, and court costs at or before your first court date, the case must be dismissed. (Note: In Virginia, you can generally only use this right once every 12 months).  • The Court Process: You do not have to move out just because you received a "Summons for Unlawful Detainer." You have the right to appear in court and present a defense.