Legal Question in Business Law in California

Can punitive action taken (and if so, how much could be eventually awarded in such a cross-compliant action) for the landlord's malicious action to claim a much higher rent determined in the boom year 2007, yet reduced (mutual agreement in writing, and verbally as month to month business tenant while the landlord was unsuccessful looking for a new tenant that could pay more) in 2008-2011 via a letter, verbally to many to the outdoor mall occupants? This was brought to the attention of the Managing Partner, and he does not care about this fraud is complicit in.

Looking for a quality, competent referral, my zip 94533


Asked on 3/07/13, 8:07 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

You cannot cross-complain for malicious prosecution. You have to win the first action and thereby establish that it was meritless before you can sue.

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Answered on 3/07/13, 8:39 am
Bryan Whipple Bryan R. R. Whipple, Attorney at Law

Your post suggests that you are thinking of doing a cross-complaint. You may indeed have some ground or basis for cross-complaining against this landlord; however, it wouldn't and couldn't be for malicious prosecution or the related tort, abuse of process.

I assume you have been sued, even though you don't say so specifically. Your primary focus should then be on making a strong defense to the landlord's suit. You tell us nothing, however, about the substance of the suit. Is it an unlawful detainer? If so, bear in mind the accelerated time line for getting your response on file.

A response to the suit, probably an answer, could be accompanied by a cross-complaint for any causes of action you may have against the landlord. An action for malicious prosecution or abuse of process must, however, await the (favorable to you) outcome of the present suit. Please feel free to contact me directly if you'd like further review.

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Answered on 3/07/13, 9:34 am


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