Rent Arrears
Over 90% of evictions in Scotland are due to financial problems, either not enough money or mishandling of the household budget. Very often rent arrears accrue because a tenant is not receiving all the benefits they are entitled to, particularly Housing Benefit. However, LSA's Court Department, a team of seven lawyers and one paralegal, are here to help. In most such cases the court cannot grant an eviction order unless it is reasonable to evict in all the circumstances of the case. The sheriff (the type of judge who presides in the landlord/tenant court) must have regard to such factors as: the amount of arrears; how those arose; any illnesses affecting household members; the presence of any children in the home; repayment prospects.
In the vast majority of cases we are able to intervene and stop an eviction order being granted, enter into negotiations with the landlord and secure dismissal or court proceedings.