This article reveals information from judicial sources regarding poor women in Santiago at the turn of the century. As many as a hundred cases from Santiago's criminal tribunals are analysed in order to explore the everyday life of these outer city dwellers. The study aims to mend flaws of these women; space (physícal surrounding), employment and felony. First, life in the 'conventillo' is examined through its opposing characteristics: poverty, promiscuity, precariousness as well as solidarity, affection and humanness. Then a look is cast upon poor women's employment in extenuating and badly paid work, specifically in five types of jobs, the characteristics of which are highlighted. Space and job type are brought together to shed light on what motivates felony offences.