Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Massachusetts

My boyfriend was menatally abusive and told me he wanted me out. I left-fearing for my safety. We had signed a lease that is in effect until May2010.

I am now being sued for all rent owed. My landlord was aware of the situation from the very day I left. Do I have any rights?


Asked on 12/14/10, 5:35 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Christopher Vaughn-Martel Charles River Law Partners, LLC

I'm sorry to hear about this situation.

If your boyfriend demanded that you leave the premises, and you left fearing for your safety, you could argue that he should indemnify you against any claim by the landlord for unpaid rent/breach of contract. You could also argue that you had the implied consent of all parties, and they are now estopped from claiming differently. Your question whether you have rights is so broad. The answer is yes, you do, but it is impossible from this short post to evaluate which rights are available to you and which rights or defenses will likely be successful.

As with any case, there are a number of moving parts, and you really need to speak with somebody who can review all of the pertinent facts and assess the situation as a whole.

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Answered on 12/19/10, 8:24 am


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