SMALL BUSINESS FOCUS: Constructive Eviction in Commercial Leases

Most residential renters know that in the District of Columbia (DC) they have a warranty of habitability and right to quiet enjoyment of their homes implied by law in every residential lease. These rights allow them to stop paying rent and vacate the property when the landlord’s failure to make repairs renders their home uninhabitable. If the landlord sues them for rent payments, the tenant can assert a “constructive eviction” defense to avoid paying the rent and in some cases, even ask for money damages, if, for example, there is damage to personal property.…  

Maryland Legislature makes “Money Moves” against Abusive Foreclosures – Two Bills Introduced to start New Year

The Unfair Abusive Deceptive Trade Practices Statute of Limitations (HB 425)

• This legislation will ensure that homeowners who were unfairly and deceptively
  denied the opportunity to modify their mortgage loan in violation of Maryland laws, would have the right to sue their former mortgage lender for such violations.
• Last August, for example, Wells Fargo admitted publically that it conducted hundreds or thousands of foreclosures against homeowners due to its unfair evaluation of their loss mitigation applications between April 13, 2010, and Oct.…  

The D.C. Statehood Film Festival and Teach In Symposium

Award money of up to $2,500 will be presented for best D.C. Statehood Short Films.  Seating is limited for the Festival! Get Free Tickets at https://sandraashepreleaseconcert.eventbrite.com

The D.C. Statehood Film Festival – A total of $2,500 to be awarded to winners on 24 May 2019 – 5:30 p.m. – The Carnegie Institution – 16th and “P” N.W.…