After eviction, can I still retrieve personal items from the unit?

So, I was evicted, and I asked the association if I could grab my personal items from the unit, but they never replied. On 12/5, they made an offer saying I had to drop my appeal and not hold them responsible for wrongful foreclosure to get my stuff. I didn’t agree at that time. Fast forward to 1/5, I went to the unit and realized everything was gone. When I asked what happened to my stuff, I was told it was thrown away. I never got a chance to retrieve it before it was thrown out. Is there anything I can do now?

Wow, that sounds like a nightmare. If they threw away your stuff without giving you a chance to get it, I think you might have a case. Did they give you any warning or chance to collect it?

Emerson said:
Wow, that sounds like a nightmare. If they threw away your stuff without giving you a chance to get it, I think you might have a case. Did they give you any warning or chance to collect it?

Yeah, exactly! It seems like they were just trying to pressure you into dropping your appeal. Honestly, that’s kind of messed up.

@Rory
I agree. They should have at least given a heads-up. I’d definitely look into legal action if I were you.

You might want to start by listing all your items and their value. Then, send a letter demanding compensation for the loss. If they refuse, it could be time to find an attorney.

River said:
You might want to start by listing all your items and their value. Then, send a letter demanding compensation for the loss. If they refuse, it could be time to find an attorney.

Yeah, I’m thinking about that. Do I send the letter to the law firm or the management company?

@Wynn
Send it to both—the law firm and the management company. They’ll both be involved.

This seems like a classic case of improper disposal of property. If they never gave you a chance to retrieve your things, they could be liable for that.

Lisa said:
This seems like a classic case of improper disposal of property. If they never gave you a chance to retrieve your things, they could be liable for that.

Yeah, exactly! If they didn’t notify you or give a chance to collect, I’d say it’s their fault.

I’d definitely recommend getting a lawyer to help with the appeal. It’s way harder to win without one.

Tobin said:
I’d definitely recommend getting a lawyer to help with the appeal. It’s way harder to win without one.

I know, but finding an attorney who doesn’t charge a huge retainer is tough. I’ve lost almost everything that had any value.

@Wynn
I hear you. But you can try negotiating fees with some attorneys. They might be willing to work with you depending on the case.

For an appeal, you’ll want a civil litigation lawyer or a landlord-tenant attorney. They’re your best bet for something like this.

Briar said:
For an appeal, you’ll want a civil litigation lawyer or a landlord-tenant attorney. They’re your best bet for something like this.

Oh, I didn’t even think about that. I was debating between a real estate lawyer or personal injury attorney. Thanks!