Abstract: A paddle handle actuated latch mechanism has the paddle handle pivotally mounted within a recess formed in a rectangular tray. A bolt is mounted in a housing attached to the back of the tray. A slide bar mounted in the bolt housing is connected to the bolt and has a portion which projects through an opening in the tray and is engaged by the handle when the handle is actuated. The lock bar is connected to the bolt such that when the paddle handle is moved from a stored position to an operated position, the slide bar moves from a locked position to an unlocked position which moves the bolt from an extended position to a retracted position.