Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Georgia

I have signed a one year lease on a rental home and I can no longer afford it. I mentioned that I may have to move out to my landlords and they told me if I did so they would call the sheriff. My first question is can they actually do that? Secondly, is there anyway out of this lease? If I was to just to pack up and leave is there any legal action they could pursue against me?


Asked on 1/08/13, 9:12 am

3 Answers from Attorneys

Scott Riddle Law Office of Scott B. Riddle, LLC

Sure, they can call the Sheriff, but it is unlikely they have any valid reason to do so unless there is much more to the story. No one can tell you if there is a way out of the lease without reading it, and you failed to tell us if there is an early termination provision. If you breach the lease, of course the landlord can pursue for damages and it will affect your credit report and future ability to rent a house or apartment.

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Answered on 1/08/13, 9:17 am
Glenn M. Lyon, Esq. MacGREGOR LYON, LLC, Business Attorneys

I agree with Mr. Riddle's answer, but I will add that there is no (or at least very unlikely based on your posting) criminal liability here, just civil liability for breaching the lease agreement.

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Answered on 1/08/13, 9:36 am
Glen Ashman Ashman Law Office also dba Glen Ashman Attorney

Usually when you breach a lease, you risk ruining your credit for 7 years and being sued for unpaid rent (which will lead to garnishment of your pay and bank accounts). A smart move is to meet with a lawyer. Depending on your finances and the numbers, you may have options such as bankruptcy to protect yourself.

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Answered on 1/08/13, 4:34 pm


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