Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Judgment Against

The company I worked for lease an

apartment for me. They failed to pay

the rent. The property owner went to

court and got a eviction and

monetary judgment against me even

though Im not on the lease as a

personal guarantor. The company is

the one who executed the lease. How

do I appeal?


Asked on 6/18/09, 12:42 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: Judgment Against

The case is over, and you lost. The time to fight lawsuits is when you get them, not after the case has been to court already. But you might be able to sue the company who promised to pay your rent.

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Answered on 6/18/09, 1:10 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Judgment Against

If you 'fought' the case and lost, then, yes, you would have to appeal. That is expensive, and you would have to seriously weigh those costs against the risks before deciding to do so.

If the judgment was by default, meaning you didn't file any pleadings in the case, you could file a Motion to set aside the judgment, if you do so timely within no more than 6 months after judgment, and if you can show good cause. IF successful, then you would be able to file an Answer and appropriate motions and a cross-complaint against your company, to defend yourself properly this time.

You could consider simply filing a Complaint for indemnity against your company, which should have been done as a cross-complaint in the lawsuit.

If this is in SoCal, and you're serious about doing so, feel free to contact me for legal help you'll need.

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Answered on 6/18/09, 1:53 pm


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