If you do get hauled into court, and you can point to shoddy paperwork or landlord's behavior, such as not maintaining rental property in habitable condition, or retaliation for insisting on repairs, you can diminish landlord's chances of victory.

Finally, even if landlord wins eviction lawsuit, she can't just move you and your things out onto sidewalk. Typically, she must give court judgment to a local law enforcement officer, along with a fee. The sheriff or marshal gives you a notice that officer will be back within a few days to escort you off property.

More friendly advice from

DAN THE ROOMMATE MAN

For tenants facing seriously harmful conditions, many states have enacted remedies that let them repair problems and deduct cost from rent, or withhold rent until landlord accomplishes cleaning and repairs. If your state has these remedies, check them out. Be careful, however, to follow letter of law when taking these steps.

And in future, get that promise in writing before you move in. That way, you have a contract that you can point to if you need it later.

More friendly advice from

DAN THE ROOMMATE MAN