| PA Eviction for tenant advice needed I am 5 months behind on my rent because of a number of unforseen and difficult circumstances, and have a limited income (disability). I have received a recovery of real property hearing notice, and have some questions regarding this.
1. The judge listed on the notice is one that I came up in front of in a different matter about a year ago, and he acted in what I feel was an unfair manner by throwing out a pre-negotiated agreement with the other party and making a payment schedule I could not afford, which is part of what lead to the problem of my not being able to keep up with my rent. Can I request a change of venue, and under what terms would you suggest?
2. Before serving the papers, about 1 1/2 weeks ago, my landlord threatened that I was to be out by the weekend or he would padlock my apartment and throw my things on the street. I have been a prisoner in my apartment since then, not allowing me any opportunity to seek alternatives to my situation. Now the hearing is set for 1 week from now. The landlord did say to someone coming to visit me "She won't be here next week." Does this behavior on his part give me any legal standing somehow?
3. Could you tell me how much time I would have from the hearing date? And what I might to do buy some time? I need help in making other arrangements because of my disabilities, which are neurological and mental in nature, and not readily noticeable to an untrained person.
4. I am on disability and have very limited funds right now...which I need to find another place to live. I dont' have the amount he is suing for which includes damages. What can I do? What might happen?
5. I get too much disability to qualify for legal aide, but I do not have the money to hire a lawyer outright. I have other bills, and will probably lose my (a used one I had to get -- it's my only means of transportation -- otherwise I'm homebound). I have just barely enough to be able to find other living space or find a lawyer...but not both.
6. Would bankruptcy be a viable option? If so, can it stop the court proceedings? Can it be done in this short amount of time, or at least started to stave off the wolves for a little while? I have never been in a situation like this, and perhaps a fresh start might be a good thing, since this was all because of a run of very bad luck coupled with my inability to function because of my disabilities. With a few months grace, I might be able to pay a good amount of the back rent or it would make finding another place to live easier. I am alone, and have nowhere to go right now other than the street unless I can find a place fast (which based on what's happening, might be difficult).
I have never been in a situation like this before, and am very frightened. I hope someone can help at least give me some guidance. Thank you. |