Breaking my lease due to domestic violence

[malaya66]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? CA

I was abused by my ex-boyfriend whom I shared a lease with in July 2010. He went to jail and I received an emergency protective order. According to California civil code 1946.7 I was legally permitted to get out of the lease in order to leave the apartment we shared. I followed all instructions, and sent my landlord a letter stating that I was a victim of domestic violence and needed to break my lease along with the copy of the EPO. Now, 8 months later I am receiving a bill from my landlord for outstanding rent that my ex did not pay the last 2 months of his tenancy. I know that I am no longer on the lease, but I did not receive this statement in writing even though I had requested it. Can my previous landlord now hold me responsible for this unpaid rent? And can he affect my credit report if I do not pay? I am wondering if I need to get a lawyer, or what my next steps should be. This website includes the civil code and other important information if you're not familiar with it.
http://nhlp.org/files/Civil Code 1946.7 Toolkit.pdf
I appreciate any advice. Thank you.

 

[BL]

If you were released from your lease under DV provisions , the LL can not collect from you unless within the 30 days of your notice.

[U]www.nhlp.org/files/Civil Code 1946.7 Toolkit.pdf[/U]

Send a RRR Certified letter and one reg. mail reminding that LL your had a right to be released from the lease under the State's DV provisions ( include another copy of the Law ) .

 

[DeenaCA]

You might want to contact a DV advocacy agency in your area. They can help with housing-related issues. There's a county-by-county list at http://www.aardvarc.org/dv/states/ca.shtml.