Can You Sue a Landlord for Trespass for Entries Made Without Proper Notice
My question involves landlord-tenant law in the State of: NJ
I have had problems with a landlord (maintenance people) coming into the apartment with no/unreasonable notice. The last time, I called the cops. The police came out, wrote up a report, warned the landlord, and told me that I could file a criminal complaint at the municipal bldg (or police station), and/or pursue civil action against the landlord.
Criminal complaint: I am not sure what exact trespassing law (criminal, defiant. other) is proper here, and can that complaint be filed against the landlord (or apartment complex) or must it be filed against the specific maintenance person who entered (at the landlord's direction)?
Civil action: I did consult with a civil attorney, but he said that any damages would likely be nominal and it would not be worth it for me to retain him. I am not surprised at this. If I decided to pursue this myself (e.g. small claims), what damages could I claim under NJ law (invasion of privacy, harassment, other), if any?
Info or suggestions for further self-research appreciated.
Re: Can You Sue a Landlord for Trespass for Entries Made Without Proper Notice
If you believe you have grounds to file a police report, you will go to the police and make your report. They will evaluate the facts you present and determine from those facts whether to recommend to the prosecutor that charges be filed and against whom.
You can make a claim for damages that you have suffered. If you have not suffered damages, no matter what label you use, you have not suffered damages. What damages have you actually suffered?