Legal Question in Criminal Law in Missouri

I rent a single family home and am the only one on the lease. Because it's a big house, I've allowed a "housemate" to move into the basement. She has her own bathroom, separate entrance, kitchen, etc. I'm worried she may be engaging in some illegal activities and am concerned about us both getting into trouble if she gets caught. Is there any way I can protect myself from being liable for her actions? I've considered trying to establish the downstairs space as a separate apartment, i.e. only limited access to the rest of the house, 1/2 address on a separate mail box, that sort of thing. Any thoughts?


Asked on 11/23/10, 4:03 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Anthony Smith LawSmith

To alter the premises you will probably need to get the owner's approval. Once you have that, it seems a good idea to seperate the living areas. But, you will have to formalize the subletting relationship, to insualte yourself form her illegal activities. Obvioulsy, you cannot participate in any of hte illegal acts or covering them up.

If you witness illegal activity you may have to evict your "friend" If the frine di slater arrested, your having a seperat eliving quarters and attmepting to evict them may prevent you from being accused along with her. The best way ot prent prosecution is to convince her not to conduct any illegal activity in or near the house.

Good luck

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Answered on 11/30/10, 10:48 am


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