From Lakewood Observer Archives
Please make sure to read the three documents at the bottom. 2 pdfs, one short note. All important.
From Judge Pat Carroll and the Lakewood Courts
Thank your for your inquiry. I have attached the Lakewood Court Emergency Operation Plan and a draft of a tenants’ assistance plan that I have discussed with some of the landlords in Lakewood. The plan was actually proposed by a landlord and submitted to me for revision.
This health crisis will affect everyone in both the short and long term. Eviction cases are problematic for a number of reasons. Many landlords own few units and depend on the rent to pay the mortgage. In other case, some landlords have lost their job, been temporarily released from work, or experienced a substantial reduction in their hours at work and depend on the rent as a source of income. In effect, they are the small business owners in our community who are also negatively impacted by this situation.
As a judge I consider both sides and, as the attached documents reflect, attempt to strike a balance of the rights of everyone involved. This includes not only the parties but also the general community by reducing the number of hearings to keep traffic in city hall to a minimum.
Cases also have statutory time constraints which the court is required to follow.
It is not an easy fix and there are many moving parts. As the Chief Justice stressed to the judges at the meeting in Columbus last Friday, although this is an unusual situation, as judges we must follow, not disregard the law. It is for this reason that I have been working since Friday night to review all of the statutory procedures set out throughout the Ohio Revised Code to determine the most expedient and fair resolution. As of this writing I am still in the office and have not left this week before 10:00 p.m.
Evictions are one part of many cases in this court. The first step was to assist the police by reducing the jail population and ease the procedure for outstanding arrest warrants. I have also attached that order for your review. I have been attempting to address all aspects of all cases that impact the court and our community.
I certainly don’t claim to have all the answers and have not even identified all the questions. Mayor George and her staff have been a great assistance during this ordeal. Although some courts have adopted questionable procedures, I am always open to review any suggestion. I appreciate your concern and welcome the comments of you and all of the members of the Lakewood City Council. We are only going to be successful by working together.
Pat Carroll
Lakewood Court Emergency Operation Procedure - http://media.lakewoodobserver.com/media ... 707663.pdf
2020 order of bond modification - http://media.lakewoodobserver.com/media ... 707689.pdf
Lakewood Court Tenant Assistance plan
The landlord agrees to continue the tenant’s occupancy and forebear eviction with:
One quarter (1/ 4) to one third (1/3) of the rent paid for the duration of this situation upon:
1) explanation of financial circumstances,
2) proof of layoff/termination, or reduced work hours by tenant’s employer, or
3) Proof of application for public assistance due to reduced or loss of employment.
The balance of rent to be paid over the next 120 days or the balance of the lease term if less than 120 days
.
Note; both the amount and term of payment may be negotiable with the parties.
Waive all late fees.
.