questions & answers

Question: Dear Sir or Madam Where can I find a simple form for an agreement to rent an apartment? I am a senior citizen, 81. I need to have a formal agreement with my son , who is a disabled veteran. Forms that I found are very complicated and full of legalese . If you could send me to a website I would greatly appreciate it.I am in Yavapai County Thank you in advance . Barbara Golian

Answer:  There are many sample agreements available on the Internet, but many can be difficult to understand. Unfortunately, this is because as attorneys and others who form these contracts create the documents, they are attempting to close any loopholes that may be present and trying to account for every possible scenario. It is possible for you to write your own lease. Any document signed by both parties can constitute a valid and binding contract, enforceable in Arizona courts presuming it does not violate the law. In Arizona the laws addressing what is properly in a lease are covered in the Arizona Residential Landlord Tenant Act, covered in Title 33 of the Arizona Revised Statutes [http://www.azleg.gov/ArizonaRevisedStatutes.asp?Title=33]. You may also wish to read the article on this website addressing the Act [http://azlawhelp.org/articles_info.cfm?mc=3&sc=24&articleid=46], as well as another found here [http://azlawhelp.org/articles_info.cfm?mc=3&sc=24&articleid=25]. Please be aware that if you choose to write your own lease (or use one available online), it is recommended that you have an attorney review it before allowing either party to sign.