Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Ohio

Re: Tenant-Landlord Eviction

Anticipate some or all of the following..."The landlord dislikes me, harasses me, and discriminates against me because (woman; single mother; unemployed; mentally or physically disabled; gay; noisy or numerous kids...). I've paid him in cash, or other services. He was supposed to get the utilities turned on and refused to do so. He propositioned me and I turned him down. The house is unfit, and I told him I was going to the building department or the police. He is retaliating. etc., etc.) Hire an attorney, now. Do not talk with the tenant, in person or by phone, without a credible witness. If the facts warrant a report to the police (by the other tenants) or to the Children Services, the authorities should be told. However, do not threaten to do so. Was there a lease? Is she a hold-over tenant from a prior owner? Did you screen her and rent to her? Is she on any rental assistance? She's cost you 4 months rent. She may be able to drag out the eviction process for 3-6 months additional. Your fastest, cheapest strategy may be to offer to lend her the security and first month's rent if she will voluntarily leave. Good luck.