If Iam being sued by my NY landlords but now live in NJ, how do I go about finding a lawyer?

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If Iam being sued by my NY landlords but now live in NJ, how do I go about finding a lawyer?

The summons, however, came from NJ. Our landlords are suing for three months rent, we left the house three months early. They were never helpful with any repairs, etc. We had to call the building inspector to get the front stairs fixed as they were unsafe. The final straw for us was that they refused to have an exterminator come look at our ant problem and would not rent the propane tank for us to fill in order to use the stove and dryer. There were so many more issues than this but they are suing us for about $7000. Do we have a defense? Should I speak with a landlord-tenant attorney? In Monmouh County, NJ.

Asked on July 20, 2010 under Real Estate Law, New Jersey

Answers:

M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 13 years ago | Contributor

Yes, you should consult with an attorney.  There are many issues that you can raise in an answer to a landlord tenant proceeding that can help to mitigate the amount due.  But be aware that a lease is a contract and by leaving early and not paying rent then you breached the contract and can be sued for the remainder of the lease as damages.  There are certain circumstances where a "constructive eviction" takes place when an apartment is uninhabitable, etc.  But each case is fact specific and you need to discuss it fully with an attorney in New York that is familiar with the law.  Good luck. 


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