Q: Hi I’m being evicted from my rental unit with me $ my small kids I have been physically assaulted by office manager
Need help with legal rights
A:
I'm so sorry you and your children are going through this traumatic situation. Being assaulted and facing eviction is incredibly stressful and scary. Here are some steps you can take to protect your legal rights and get help:
1. File a police report about the physical assault. This documents the incident and may be important for legal proceedings. Take photos of any injuries.
2. Contact a tenants rights organization or legal aid clinic in your area. They can advise you on your rights as a renter facing eviction and connect you with low-cost or free legal representation. Search online for "tenants rights [your city/state]" or "legal aid [your city/state]".
3. If you are being evicted illegally (e.g. in retaliation for reporting the assault), you may be able to fight the eviction. The legal aid organization can advise on this. Do not ignore any eviction notices - respond and attend any required hearings.
4. Look into applying for emergency rental assistance programs or transitional housing/shelter for you and your kids in case the eviction does go through. Contact your local social services, housing authority, or family shelters.
5. Consider filing for a restraining order against the office manager to keep them away from you. The assault is unacceptable.
6. Prioritize you and your children's physical safety above all else. If you fear further violence, make a safety plan to stay elsewhere temporarily.
I know this is a lot to handle but there are organizations that can guide and support you through this. You have rights and do not deserve this mistreatment. Please reach out for help and stay safe. Wishing you all the best.
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