Rent and possession while a case is pending
Generally, having a lawsuit against your landlord does not automatically change your ongoing obligations, and you should be careful — stopping rent or moving out based on assumptions can create problems separate from your claim.
Suing your landlord does not, by itself, mean you can stop paying rent, and doing so without a proper legal basis could expose you to eviction, even while your case is pending. Likewise, you generally are not required to move out just because you filed a claim; you can often continue living in the unit and pursue your rights at the same time. The right approach depends on your specific situation and the nature of your claims.
There can be exceptions and strategies depending on the facts — for example, when serious conditions or constructive eviction are involved — which is exactly why guidance matters here.
Because decisions about rent and possession during a dispute can significantly affect both your housing and your case, this is an area to get advice on rather than guess. If you are pursuing or considering a claim and unsure about rent or staying in your unit, a free, confidential review can help you avoid costly missteps.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.