Jones Day achieves a settlement for pro bono client in an unlawful detainer action

Client(s) Nancy J. Garcia

Irvine associates Doug Clark, Brianne Jackson, and two summer associates achieved a favorable settlement for their pro bono client in an unlawful detainer action that was set for trial in Orange County Superior Court on July 21, six days after Jones Day was retained. After reviewing the record and interviewing the client, the trial team immediately moved ex parte to amend the client's Answer to add meritorious affirmative defenses, including retaliatory eviction, while crafting a settlement offer to the landlord and preparing for trial. A settlement was ultimately reached on the morning of trial with the landlord agreeing to waive all attorneys fees, court costs, and late fees on two months past due rent. The trial team negotiated a payment plan of $25 per month until the satisfaction of client's remaining past due debt, with a ten day grace period for each of the installment payments. Most importantly, the client was able to enter into a stipulated judgment whereby the unlawful detainer action was dismissed and no judgment will appear on the client's credit report unless she fails to make her monthly payments. The client was also permitted to stay on the premises for a time period that enabled her to move to a new apartment on her preferred schedule.