I have a tenant who was evicted in district court (I self represented). He then appealed and now it's going to Superior Court this Friday. He just informed me that he'll be moving out tomorrow (Thursday), so eviction may no longer be necessary. However just to be safe I'm looking for an attorney to draft a motion to dismiss the appeal based on the fact that he hasn't paid rent during the stay of execution (SECTION 34-18-53). I don't mind self representing again, just need the motion drafted as I've never drafted one before and I'd hate to get the terminology wrong.
I'm willing to pay, just need to know how much you'd want and it'll need to be ready tomorrow.
I think you're better off hiring the attorney to handle the whole matter for you. The RI Supreme Court has recently issued its opinion about attorneys drafting court documents for clients, but Ive observed that some questions still remain among many attorneys as to what is allowed and what is not. I think you're taking a major risk representing yourself, even if a court document is drafted for you in compliance with the RI Supreme Court's ruling. Arguing a motion takes the skill of an attorney. I recommend you find yourself an attorney to handle the entire matter, not just the drafting. Hooe this helps.
Lauren BalkcomCriminal Defense AttorneyProvidence, RI ·
Attorney Michael Crane in Providence is excellent with respect to landlord-tenant matters. Give his office a call & be sure to convey the urgency of the situation. If attorney Crane is unable to assist you his office will certainly be able point you to someone who can.
It would be nice to go into the dollar store and pick up such a motion. An attorney needs to be sure of the facts and circumstances, " just draft the motion for me" sounds like a strategy to minimize cost, but hat may not be compatible with a truly professional attorney client relationship. It's like going into a Dentist office and saying "just pull this tooth." Build a relationship, a real attorney client relationship with an attorney. It will be worth it, always, not just in money but in reduced stress and loss prevention.
