Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of fighting an eviction varies based on your specific situation and which of our services best fits your needs:

• AI Attorney ($395-$595): Our most affordable option that provides AI-powered document review, customized response drafting, and legal research.
• Eviction Arbitration Team ($795-$1,295): Includes direct negotiation with landlords, payment plan arrangements, and mediation services.
• Courtroom Defense Attorney ($1,495-$2,895): Full legal representation in court with an expert tenant rights attorney.

We offer flexible payment options and can work with you to find a solution that fits your budget. We also provide guidance on accessing emergency rental assistance and other financial resources that may be available to you.

No, a landlord cannot legally evict you without going through the proper court process. "Self-help" evictions—where a landlord changes locks, removes your belongings, shuts off utilities, or otherwise forces you out without a court order—are illegal in all states.

The legal eviction process generally requires:

1. Proper written notice from the landlord
2. Filing of an eviction lawsuit (often called an "unlawful detainer" or "forcible entry and detainer")
3. Serving you with the lawsuit papers
4. A court hearing where you have the right to present your side
5. A court judgment in the landlord's favor
6. In many cases, a separate notice from law enforcement before actual removal

If your landlord attempts to evict you without following this process, contact us immediately as you may have claims against the landlord for illegal eviction.

You have the right to a habitable living space, which means your rental must be safe, sanitary, and comply with building and health codes. Common maintenance issues that affect habitability include:

• Lack of hot or cold running water
• Inadequate heat in winter
• Electrical or gas problems
• Leaking roof or windows
• Broken locks or security issues
• Pest infestations
• Mold or environmental hazards

If your rental has these issues, you should:

1. Notify your landlord in writing about the problem
2. Give a reasonable time for repairs
3. Document everything with photos, videos, and copies of communications

If the landlord fails to make repairs, you may have several options depending on your location, including withholding rent, making repairs yourself and deducting the cost from rent, breaking the lease without penalty, or taking legal action. These options have specific legal requirements, so contact us before taking any of these steps.

If you live in an area with rent control or just cause eviction ordinances, you have additional protections, but you can still be evicted under specific circumstances.

In just cause eviction areas, landlords can only evict tenants for reasons specified in the law, such as:

• Non-payment of rent
• Significant lease violations
• Criminal activity on the premises
• The landlord's intent to move in or have a family member move in
• Substantial renovation requiring vacancy
• Permanent removal of the unit from the rental market

Even in these cases, the landlord must still follow proper legal procedures and may be required to provide relocation assistance in some circumstances.

If you live in a rent-controlled unit and are facing eviction, contact us immediately as these cases often involve complex legal rules and additional protections that may help you stay in your home.