Spokane, WA asked in Contracts, Domestic Violence, Land Use & Zoning and Real Estate Law for Washington

Q: My ex fiance and I signed a year lease in October he got worse with angry issues & verbal/emotional abuse. I need off.

What can I do to get off lease without penalties?

1 Lawyer Answer

A: While you may be held liable for your duties under the lease, if you leave the home to protect yourself from actual domestic violence, and if your ex doesn't pay the lease in full and on time, your landlord might pursue both of you in court for breach of contract and any owed monies (or your ex might pursue you in court for the same). In such an event, you may seek to defend yourself by seeking indemnity against your ex based on his constructive eviction of you and his making it impossible for you to satisfy the terms of the lease via his violence. Yet you state that your ex exhibits anger and verbal/emotional abuse, but you say nothing re: physical violence. That is key. More details are necessary to provide a professional analysis of your issue. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney such as myself. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website, www.AliEsq.com. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, WA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.

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