Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Florida

Discrimination against a ''Felon'', once released from prison

I recently purchased a mobile home, and had it moved onto a lot, I am renting. I have only lived in this park for about a month, and signed a year lease. The manager, in conversation asked me where my husband is, and I told her, in prison, he would be home in January, she then tells me, ''We have a problem'' he is a ''felon'' and can not live in this park. I have read my lease, and see nothing that says they do not allow ''convicted felons'' in the park. My husband is not a ''sex offender'' he simply got drunk and did something stupid, and is paying the price, can they legaly tell me my husband can not live in Our home with me and our children, after he has served his sentence? If they do persue this can I sue?


Asked on 5/29/01, 1:22 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Peter Gonzalez Sanchez-Medina, Gonzalez, Quesada, Lage, Crespo, Gomez & MachadoLLP

Re: Discrimination against a ''Felon'', once released from prison

Convicted felons are stripped of their right to vote (notwithstanding the thousands that voted for Al Gore during the last presidential election, in part, because of my Democratic Party's efforts), but my understanding is that they are not stripped of their right to live in a trailer park.

Ask the manager to provide you with the legal basis and support for the contention that your spouse, who happens to be a convicted felon, cannot reside with you in your mobile home, which happens to rest on the lot you are renting pursuant to a one-year lease agreement. A non-response from the manager will speak volumes about the weakness of the manager's contention. If the manager or landlord attempt to evict you, seek the advice of counsel. Good luck.

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Answered on 6/22/01, 6:52 pm
Alexander M. Rosenfeld Rosenfeld & Stein, P.A.

Re: Discrimination against a ''Felon'', once released from prison

I agree with Mr. Gonzales' advice. Note, the landlord may refuse to extend the lease. Then you may have problem that needs to be solved.

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Answered on 6/22/01, 11:04 pm


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