Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in California

Ending a lease due to death of lessee
My father-in-law entered into an automobile lease and has passed away leaving my mother-in-law with the responsibility of paying the lease. Due to his death, she is on a limited income of only social security and is not able to afford to continue paying on the lease for another year. She has tried to negotiate with the car dealer and has requested that they take the car back but they told her if she turned the car in she would still be responsible for paying the remainder of the lease which is over $3,000.00. Is there any way for her to get out of the lease due to her inability to afford the payments and because of the death of her husband who entered into the lease in the first place? If she does turn the car back in voluntarily, can they come after her for the remaining car payments or is proving her financial hardship enough for her to end the lease agreement? She has had perfect credit all her life, she is 81 years old and i do not want to see her in distress over this situation.

Do you have any suggestions? Thank you for your help.

Asked on 5/20/02, 1:26 am

Larry Rothman Larry Rothman & Associates

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Re: Ending a lease due to death of lessee

Was your Mom a signor on the lease or just your father in law? The Lessor may have to file a claim in probate. Does she drive the vehicle?

Answered on 5/20/02, 9:55 am

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