I know I'm wrong but what should I do?

[Lauraa]

Although I had rented a property (in NY) under a lease, two months into the rental I had to vacate because a lot of bad things happened to me and I could no longer afford the rent. I want to pay the landlord what's rightfully hers, but cannot afford the $1,600 bill (one month rent plus $400 for I don't know what) all at once which she has presented to the small claims court. Will the court work with me to get this straightened out fairly? Will I be expected to pay the whole amount at once? What should I do?

 

[David J. Miller]

The court cannot bleed a turnip. In other words if you don't have the money they will not force you to pay on the spot. They can't. That would be an incredible feat if I've ever seen one.

Worst case. You go to court, you can't pay, they enter a judgement against you for full amount. When you have the funds you take them to the courthouse, pay the bill in exchange for a satisfaction of judgment. Do not pay the L directly unless you can in exchange for a satisfaction.

Beg, borrow but don't steal in order to pay the sum before it becomes a judgement if you want to avoid wrecking your credit history for a while.

I am not an attorney.

 

[HomeGuru]

Negotiate a payment plan with L.

 

[Jack Mevorach, Esq.]

Telephone me for free consult.