Photo not that of the actual client
Anticipating moving into a new rental home with her family, “Rachel” paid her deposit, first month’s rent, and fees to a person she thought was the property agent. Upon moving in, however, the police and the true property agent showed up and warned her to leave. Although she explained that she had unknowingly paid the rent to a scam artist, the property owner refused to let her stay in the home or pay any new form of rent. Confused and not knowing where to go, Rachel remained in the home and began her search for a new place to live. When she failed to move out immediately, the property owner proceeded to file an unlawful detainer action against her to force her out. Having no alternative shelter or ability to challenge the detainer, Rachel turned to JALA for help. Fortunately, JALA attorney James Tyer was able to negotiate with the property owner so that Rachel and her family were allowed to remain in the house until she found somewhere else to live. The assistance meant that Rachel and her family were not left temporarily homeless in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.
