You may not have a right to assume the lease, but if the landlord accepted rent from you, that would normally establish a tenancy. However, unless...

The landlord's deduction seems both questionable, and excessive. I suggest you sue in small claims court under Civil Code Section 1950.5.

The utility shutoff is illegal and actionable, including under Civil Code Section 789.3. The police will sometimes intervene, so I suggest...

Unless you can show that you were somehow defrauded into signing the lease (e.g. undisclosed defects), or that there are substantial violations of...

If your tenancy is subject to rent control (e.g. LA's RSO or state AB 1482), it seems doubtful that the landlord would have that right, especially...

Unless and until your brother formally abandons his tenancy, and turns in his keys, or his tenancy is somehow validly terminated by the landlord,...

I agree with Mr. Kane, but would add that if you want to sell the house vacant (vacant houses are often easier to market, and can command a better...

The landlord's actions, as described, would violate FEHA and other disability rights laws. Your friend should complain to the Cal. DFEH, and seek...

Unless the lease (as many do) contains some specific provisions as to how notice must be given, written notice should be given as per Civil Code...

The first step in the process is to TIMELY file and serve an appropriate response with the court. That often consists of a Judicial Council form...