Tenant in Custody Battle and Not Paying rent

[Tu Cao]

Hi, I am a landlord in southern California.  My tenant have live at my placed for over 9 months.  Unfortunately, they are in a domestic abuse battle.  The husband is ordered by the court to stay away from his wife and his children.  Well, they signed up jointly for the lease, but they haven't paid the rent for two months which totaled to over $6000.  The next court date is mid April.   I have sent both of them the 3-Day notice to Pay Rent or Quit.  The wife is very responsive and she is working with the social worker for assistance.  The husband has not responds to a single text or email.  Tomorrow 3/12/2026 will be the end of the 3-days notice.   What should I do next?  Get an attorney to proceed with eviction?  I have to pay my mortgage, too. 

[Richard F.]

Just a guess, but I imagine Cali has a specific law regarding domestic abuse situations. Check on that first. Are both parties named on, and signatories to, the Rental Agreement? If only one is, then that is likely the only person you will be able to try to go after. I highly recommend you get an experienced LL/Tenant Attorney on the case asap. At least have an initial "consultation" with one to get clarity on your specifics.