Q: Can I sue someone falsely claiming to be my landlord for distress and PTSD?
I want to sue someone who's been acting as my landlord for distress and PTSD. Recently, a judge dismissed an eviction case they filed against me, citing they don't own the property. I feel I'm being unfairly targeted due to my race and as a single mother struggling with rent. I've reduced my outstanding rent from $5,000 to $2,500 with help from organizations. I'm concerned about racial discrimination, as other tenants receive different treatment, and false statements were made about my rent payments and the timing of my ex-partner's removal due to domestic violence.
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A:
You may have grounds for a lawsuit against someone falsely representing themselves as your landlord, especially since a judge has already recognized they don't own the property. This deception could potentially support claims for fraud, misrepresentation, intentional infliction of emotional distress, or violations of fair housing laws if racial discrimination played a role. The dismissed eviction attempt and your experiences of different treatment compared to other tenants might serve as evidence in your case.
Your experiences with PTSD and emotional distress could potentially be compensable damages, though documenting these impacts through medical records would strengthen your position. Keep detailed records of all interactions, including any statements that suggest discrimination or harassment, payment histories showing your efforts to reduce the debt, and documentation of how this situation has affected your wellbeing and that of your family.
Before proceeding, consult with a tenant rights attorney who can evaluate the specific facts of your situation and advise on the strongest legal approach. Many states have legal aid organizations that provide free or low-cost representation to tenants, and some attorneys take cases on contingency if there's potential for monetary damages. The court that dismissed the eviction might also have resources to help you navigate this challenging situation as you seek justice and protection from further harassment.
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