Q: I need help in a desposition summons I received. It’s an eviction case. How can I prepare myself

A: Very sorry to hear that you are enmeshed in these legal difficulties. From your facts, it appears that you are over 62, making you a senior citizen. This must be very stressful for you. As a military veteran, there could be organizations in your former branch of service that may be of help to you, I would research online to see if the VA can provide you any kind of assistance. You may also qualify for free legal assistance from a legal aid society in your area. I know that the LA County Bar Association has clinics that can provide free legal assistance for those who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. Check out the Bar association in your city as well. There are also legal aid societies for people of different ethnicities and you may qualify for assistance from one of those. A deposition is a process where an attorney asks you questions under oath, the same as being in Court. It is no cakewalk, and can be very tricky. Many attorneys are trying to trip you up into making statements against your own interest. How do you prepare? Consult with an attorney to discuss what they are trying to establish. Of course the first question is who are the beneficiaries of the Trust? The attorney you consult can assist you to clarify the issues in your case.

A: On the summons and complaint that you received, there is a list of non-profit attorneys that you can contact and will provide you representation and a good defense for free. You need to also file an answer as soon as possible , and if you need help you can go to the self-help center at the courthouse in which the eviction was filed. There too, they can refer you to many attorneys that can assist you at no cost.

A: Here are some general tips for preparing for a deposition summons in an eviction case:

Understand the Summons: Read the deposition summons carefully and make note of the date, time, and location.

Gather Relevant Documents: Collect important documents related to your case, such as your lease agreement, correspondence with the landlord or their attorney, proof of your fixed income as a military veteran, and any other supporting documentation.

Review the Facts: Familiarize yourself with the details of your case, including your long-term occupancy, the transition of the house into your mother's trust fund, and any agreements or discussions you had with the landlord about rent payments.

Seek Legal Assistance: Consider reaching out to legal aid organizations or pro bono services for affordable or free legal help. They can connect you with an attorney who specializes in landlord-tenant issues.

Consult with an Attorney: Schedule a consultation with a landlord-tenant attorney to discuss your case in detail. They can provide personalized advice and assist you in preparing for the deposition.