Tenant utilities out of her name in eviction, what should I do?

[Kyle Kinsley]

*Tenant took utilities out of her name in eviction, what should I do? -Character limit

Hello Biggerpockets

We am going through an eviction with a non paying tenant. The tenant was responsible for all utilities and she just now took the utilities out of her name, and we got a bill from the city for the utilities. 

Here's the tricky part, I acquired this property from another management company that lost the lease. So now we have to do the eviction as an "oral agreement". 

Because we don't technically have a signed lease, I don't want this tenant to come to court and say that we were responsible for the utilities. What should I do? I don't want the tenant to delay the eviction or even win the case. 

Should I pay the utility bill until she gets evicted so we aren't liable? Or should I just let the eviction run it's course? 

I'm open to suggestions. Thank you!

[Thomas S.]

Your utility company will be able to provide you proof the utilities were in her name and paid by her. Get the proof to take to court with you. For now you will have to pay the utilities and claim for them along with any rent owing when you take her to small claims court.