Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Florida

Abandoned property?

A friend lived in a room in my house for three months. I'm not a landlord, no rent was paid, this was a favor. When I asked her to move out and remove her belongings, she moved but left behind some belongings, and left no forwarding address. After 7 weeks of attempting to contact her at the only phone number I had for her, I put the belongings out at the curb as trash. Over 60 days after I last her from her, she returned wanting her belongings. She has threatened civil and legal action against me now. What is my potential liability? And possible adverse legal outcomes from this?

Regards,


Asked on 10/31/06, 11:53 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Thomas Rosenblum Rosenblum Law Offices

Re: Abandoned property?

Hello: I just read your question. As I have not researched the law on this, this is only a general overview. Since you did not have a lease nor were you receiving rent $ from your friend, this is not a landlord/tenant relationship, bringing this matter within Fla. law on landlord/tenants and creating certain rights and obligations.

Thus, I submit you need not worry about any liability for her property. This does not mean she couldn't sue you in civil court, it means you most likely would not lose that case. 'Hope this helps. Tom Rosenblum

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Answered on 11/09/06, 10:57 am


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