The road to a new home: how legal aid changed Tetyana's life

Tetiana* was forced to leave her home in Lyman, Donetsk region, because of the war. Her house, where she lived with her son, was completely destroyed. The family moved to Sumy, but did not have enough money for a new home, as their only income was a small pension.

Tetiana applied to the commission at the Liman City Military Administration to receive compensation for the destroyed housing. However, the consideration of her application was suspended for an indefinite period.

Not knowing what to do next, Tetiana turned to the lawyers of the Danish Refugee Council in Sumy. The organization's lawyer carefully reviewed her documents and explained that the commission's decision could be appealed. DRC offered to help her prepare a lawsuit, and Tetiana agreed.

The court recognized the commission's actions as illegal, canceled the decision to suspend the application and ordered it to be reconsidered. After the court decision was enforced, the commission granted Tetiana's application. She received a housing certificate to purchase a new apartment.

In addition, DRC financed a technical inspection of the destroyed house, which became an important evidence for a positive decision on compensation.

The provision of legal aid in Sumy region was made possible thanks to funding from the European Union.

*Name changed.