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2 Answers | Asked in Landlord - Tenant, Civil Litigation and Real Estate Law for California on
Q: How can I contest an unlawful detainer for missed rent payments without receipts in California?

I was served with an unlawful detainer in Riverside County, California. The landlord claims I didn't pay rent for two months, but I did pay in cash. Unfortunately, I don't have the receipts, although an office worker confirmed my payments were made. Since I'm late on different rent... View More

Maurice Mandel II
Maurice Mandel II
answered on Jul 30, 2026

The receipt is not essential, but the testimony of the LL's employee saying that you did pay them in cash would be. You may be surprised that they don't remember.

When you pay in cash, you need a record of that payment, it is usually a receipt. You can use the cash to buy a money...
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2 Answers | Asked in Landlord - Tenant, Personal Injury and Real Estate Law for California on
Q: How can I get compensation for vehicle vandalism at senior housing?

I live in a senior housing complex in Richmond, California, where my vehicle has been vandalized four times. I've reported these incidents to the housing manager, who has acknowledged the problem but has yet to take any effective action. The vandalism occurred within the complex, and there... View More

Maurice Mandel II
Maurice Mandel II
answered on Jul 30, 2026

Sorry this is happening and the management is not helping. If you believe that the complex is deficient in its security measures, you can take your repair bills and the details of all your reporting to Small Claims court where the maximum is now at $12,500.00. As a renter you are entitled to the... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Landlord - Tenant, Insurance Defense and Real Estate Law for California on
Q: Is Workman's Comp required for renters insurance in CA?

I am renting an apartment in California, and an insurance company claims that Workman's Compensation and Employers' Liability Insurance are required under my renter's insurance policy, even though I do not employ anyone. Is this a legitimate requirement, and what could be the reason... View More

Maurice Mandel II
Maurice Mandel II
answered on Jul 30, 2026

Under California Insurance Code § 11590, state law requires that all comprehensive personal liability insurance policies—including renters and homeowners policies—automatically include a basic provision for Domestic Workers' Compensation.

It is usually bundled with your liability...
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1 Answer | Asked in Divorce, Family Law and Contracts for Minnesota on
Q: How to keep a gifted check as separate property in a Minnesota divorce?

I am preparing to file for divorce and have been gifted a check exceeding $10,000 from a family member. I have not yet cashed the check and want to ensure that these funds are not considered marital assets. I have previously received similar gifts from this family member during my marriage, which... View More

Robert Kane
Robert Kane
answered on Jul 30, 2026

It would be wise to choose your attorney, before you deposit the check and use any of the funds, to make sure it's done properly. Your situation may have nuances or additional facts that need to be considered.

Generally, a family gift made to you alone may be treated as nonmarital...
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2 Answers | Asked in Landlord - Tenant, Gov & Administrative Law and Real Estate Law for California on
Q: Is it legal for motels to move guests every 21 days in CA?

In California, is it legal for a motel to require guests to move every 21 days without providing any explanation or written rules/policies? Many guests, including myself, have been shuffled from one motel to another because of this practice. Is there any legal action we can take regarding this?

Maurice Mandel II
Maurice Mandel II
answered on Jul 30, 2026

Possibly. Under Civ Code 1940.1- if it is done to prevent a guest from establishing a legal tenancy, with additional rights, it could be illegal. You could report to local housing authorities, or file a lawsuit with $500.00 in statutory damages, in small claims, or obtain an attorney to assist you... View More

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