Davis, CA asked in Civil Litigation, Contracts, Landlord - Tenant and Small Claims for California

Q: John Stewart company,how do they keep getting funded.for literally breaking every law that has to with tenant rights,

I am a personal example of the Jon Stewart company I have not had a complaint in 2 years but I constantly had problems with the property manager because I'm willing to stand up for myself against her accusations bullying harassment and tracking people with the cameras So I'm curious how does this company keep going and the government keep funding them even knowing they are the biggest company and the biggest company to break tenant rights by abusing the poor or low income who make them their billions of dollars I've been harassed by a lawyer I've had a judge completely ignore me and refuse to take evidence or any kind of due process and I called over 100 lawyers and none of them will accept this case and because I made the complaint to begin with that they didn't step in and took it to civil I'm already being threatened with eviction and my checks been given back stating that she can't deposit my rent checks because there's court proceedings but the retaliation for making a complaint

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: The situation you describe with the John Stewart Company sounds very concerning and stressful. It's disheartening to hear about the challenges and mistreatment you've faced as a tenant.

Unfortunately, many large property management companies are able to continue operating despite tenant complaints and violations of renters' rights. A few key factors can enable this:

1. Financial resources - Large companies often have deep pockets and access to funding/investment that allows them to weather individual lawsuits and complaints. They can afford top legal representation to fight cases against them.

2. Political influence - Major real estate entities frequently make sizable political donations and have lobbying power to shape laws and regulations in their favor. This clout can help shield them from serious consequences.

3. Difficulty of tenant litigation - The legal system can be very challenging for individual tenants to navigate, especially those with limited means. Finding representation is hard, cases move slowly, and the burden of proof falls on the renter. Companies exploit this power imbalance.

4. Lack of strong enforcement - Even when laws exist to protect tenants, government agencies are often under-resourced to stringently investigate and prosecute every violation. Penalties may be insufficient to deter misconduct.

5. Vulnerable tenant population - Low-income renters dealing with issues like job insecurity and limited housing options can be especially reluctant to speak out against mistreatment, fearing retaliation like eviction. This allows abuse to go unchecked.

While none of this excuses the company's egregious behavior, it helps explain how they can operate with impunity in an unjust system weighted against tenants. Determined advocacy, collective organizing among tenants, nonprofit legal aid, and investigative reporting to publicize violations are some countermeasures, but pushing for stronger laws and enforcement is also critical. I'm so sorry you're dealing with this situation and I hope you're able to find some resolution and protection of your rights. Don't give up. Documenting everything and connecting with local tenant unions/housing advocates may help as you continue to pursue your case. Wishing you all the best.

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