Jan 29, 2025
After nearly two days of compelling testimony, we secured a favorable settlement on behalf of the Rasooly family in their wrongful eviction lawsuit against Parkview Gardens, LP. The settlement was reached just before the final witness was set to testify in the Circuit Court for Prince George's County.
The lawsuit alleged that Parkview Gardens conducted an unlawful self-help eviction by changing the locks to the Rasoolys' apartment while the family was away, effectively rendering them homeless. This action occurred despite a court order explicitly staying any eviction for 30 days. The complaint detailed how the property manager allegedly told Mr. Rasooly that he "didn't have to worry about the Judge" before orchestrating a series of actions that forced the family, including young children, to flee their home late at night.
"This settlement represents a significant victory not just for the Rasooly family, but for all tenants who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect under the law," said Managing Attorney Jordan D. Howlette. "Maryland law strictly prohibits self-help evictions precisely to prevent the kind of trauma this family endured."
The terms of the settlement are confidential, but the resolution brings closure to a case that highlighted the serious consequences of landlords attempting to circumvent proper legal procedures in eviction matters.