Court Orders Tenant to Pay $300 Monthly Towards $10,000 Rental Debt

In a recent court proceeding, a woman named Magdalene Prince faced legal action to recover $9,000 in unpaid rent that had been accumulating since April 2020.

The case was brought by landlord Simon Kennedy, who appeared before Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel to address the matter.

Prince, who is still living in the rental property, represented herself without legal counsel. During the hearing, she acknowledged her ongoing residence and mentioned that she is currently making rent payments.

However, she proposed a minimal offer of $150 towards the arrears, which Magistrate Emanuel quickly deemed inadequate, emphasizing that such a plan would prolong the settlement process unnecessarily.

After deliberation, a compromise was reached: Prince will pay $300 a month towards her rental debts. Should she find this arrangement unmanageable, the court will assist in finding her an alternative living situation.

The settlement also includes Simon Kennedy’s legal fees, bringing the total owed to $10,000. The first installment, to be made at Kennedy’s attorney’s office at the end of June this year.