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Tweeting from Orange County small claims court this morning. This is the first court date since the COVID shut down.
The courtroom is full in a COVID sense. Every possible seat is taken.
Covid cases are growing in this county and we are simultaneously taking people’s housing away.
These were all of the cases scheduled for today. Many of the cases were resolved in advance either by tenants making payments, by tenants moving out, or other non judicial resolutions
It was definitely business as usual.
landlords have all been represented by counsel; no one representing these tenants.
Magistrate indicates that under the law, landlord is entitled to possession This is completely correct legally. Magistrate explains there are resources for people unable to pay rent. Magistrate also informs tenant about the right to appeal.
Second case - defendant “furloughed due to COVID” around March 12.
Defendant requesting leniency. Defendant has two young children in the house.
Tenant says that landlord told him he didn’t want his money and that landlord just wants him and his children out.
Landlord did not give required notice; case dismissed. Landlord will need to refile.
