Tenant Paid Rent but Still Owes Late Fee

[James P.]

Good afternoon everyone,

The Tenant in my home decided to have his father mail me the check for the last months rent. I mentioned to him that after his parents paid the first months rent and security deposit I would only accept money from him. I have a NTQ which I had a marshal deliver to his door on 6/12.

Additionally, his father did not include the late fee in the check dated 6/12 which rent was due by the 10th.  The check just arrived today 6/15

My question is, should I email my tenant advising that I received the rent from his father and per our agreement at the start of the lease that he needs to write me the check himself and include the $50 late fee, *5% late fee? OR just deposit it and ignore the late fee? (my lawyer advised a no contact)

ALSO if he does not include the late fee, do I still have grounds for eviction as I do not want to accept partial payment?

Finally since he paid/trying to pay can I continue with the eviction process?

I will hopefully be in touch with my lawyer soon but wanted some advise.

Thank you everyone, I appreciate your continued help! :)