Support Michael: Recover from Shock and Loss

My 69 year old neighbor and 65 year old tenant of about 5 months were removed from the home he and his partner lived in for more than 15 years. The police came to his home on Sunday morning, June 22nd, with no notice and told him to give the keys to the new owner (executor of the estate) and leave the property immediately. On this day the outside temperature was over 90 with feels like temperature of over 100! They stated he was being trespassed due to the new owner. Michael was so upset that he passed out and went into shock. He was hospitalized for two days, and I met with his doctor and advised that he could come stay with me until he could determine what he could do. I also have given the tenant a place to live until he can find somewhere to live. I am now living with two men and another dog in my 800 square foot home.

The new owner was the son of the owner who passed away, and this was done 7 months after the death. NC law states: Under North Carolina law, a new owner cannot simply "trespass" someone who has lived in a home for 15 years without any notice. And to make matters worse, he came a week later and took the car Michael was driving and making all the payments on since it was purchased. Every possession Michael owned was removed from the home last week: all clothes, personal documents, dishes, etc.

We have been told by the clerk of court, police departments, magistrate's office, and the probate office that the only thing that could be done was to get an attorney. Of course, Michael cannot afford an attorney and is just ready to give up. He is attempting to purchase a car, which requires a $1,500-$2,000 down payment, clothes, and money for a deposit on an apartment, including the first month's payment.

It is such a crewel action. I could not with good conscience even leave an animal outside in this weather. We are doing well in this tiny home but the devastation of Michael is very painful to me and I will do anything to help this kind person whose life has been destroyed in only a few hours. Any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated and will all be used for the immediate needs.

Please make sure you have a will, and a power of attorney and your name on anything you own. NC does not recognize common law marriage or partnerships. This is one reason I feel an attorney is important to make sure you are protected. One small error can cause tremendous harm to your life and future.