Disabled Senior Citizen Evicting - Tenant demanding Jury Trial

[Veronica Farber]

My 71 yo mother rented a room in her mobile home to a 55 yo man. There is no rental contract and she’s never rented to anyone else so didn’t realize she was making herself a landlord.  1.5 years later she is evicting him based on the fact that he has tried to hurt her dog, threatened her verbally, leaves threatening and crazy letters all over the house. We hired an attorney who served him 60 day notice. He’s lawyered up with an attorney who is know to make evictions as painful and expensive for landlords. Our attorney offered 30 days free rent and welcomed his attorney to help come to a settlement.  He totally ignored it and demanded a jury trial. 

My mother is on a fixed income and can barely cover her living expenses and has a number of serious health conditions. I’ve helped with the legal fees so far $3K, but can’t afford the expense for a jury trial.  I’ve tried finding legal aid for her, but because she is the landlord, nobody will help.  Any ideas or referrals? She is in Los Angeles. He is claiming Inhabitable conditions and retaliation. We’re pretty sure he’s done this to the last 2 homes he lived in. 

She may have to walk away from her home if we can’t find her some help.  Thanks so much.

[Lynnette E.]

Do NOT, NOT EVER, have your mother move out of the house.  Her roomer will have even more reason to fight to keep the house then.  

If she has a third bedroom, you move in or have a big burly biker friend move into the third room.  You want your mother safe, but also the roomer to not feel too safe or comfortable.  You want to encourage him to leave, so move in other room mates to 'pay the bills' even if its just a favor to your mom, and they do not really pay anything, just keep your mom safe.  You have any nephews who could help out? Or hire a male caregiver for her.

Get the elderly protective services involved, they may help encourage him to leave as they can assist in getting him charged or arrested if he threatens her.