Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in New York
Housing.
I have a petition against me for $9,000, I am next of kin to my grandfather who rented this apartment. He died last year, and I have been living here since then. I am 18 years old, have no job and have about $1,000 to my name, no assistance yet and I am not in school. I have no family my parents are deceased I have nowhere to go.
I have not payed rent because they told me 'it would take a while to process'. My court date is on the 13th for eviction and the money. I need to know what to do, and if the judge will make me pay this money that I don't have.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Housing.
You may have a defense since your grandfather - not you - that rented the apartment. You never signed a lease agreement. However, you may be responsible for use and occupancy of the apartment. That number may be less than $9,000.
Although the Court will give you time, you cannot stay in the apartment for free. Therefore, since you are not in school I suggest that you get a job in order to obtain the basics for survival - food, clothing and shelter.
In Queens you will have the opportunity to conference this matter before trial. I would formulate a plan allowing for either 1. you staying in the apartment and paying rent or 2. leaving the apartment without debt (owing money to the landlord).
Mike.