OSCAR-winning actress Julia Roberts has been accused of leaving her sister-in-law to struggle to make a living, while she lives in luxury just a short drive away.

The ERIN BROCKOVICH star recently bought a $5 million (GBP2.7 million) ocean front home in Malibu, California, but just down the road in Pacific Palisades her husband DANNY MODER's sister JYL (corr) is struggling to pay $2,000 (GBP1,100) in rent for her two bedroom apartment, according to sources.

A pal of Jyl tells America's STAR magazine, "No one understands why Julia and Danny won't lend a hand to Jyl.

"She is having a really tough time financially. She hasn't worked in over a year, but she's really getting her act together now. If I were as rich as Julia I'd help her out.

"Julia is very active in charity work and often lends her name to support various causes so it's a bit of mystery why she isn't helping out her own family."

The friend says Jyl, who has reportedly patched up differences with the actress, made a full recovery from a previous drinking problem and recently landed a job as a fashion designer on FRIENDS spin-off sitcom JOEY, where she will work alongside MATT LeBLANC and SOPRANOS star Drea de Matteo.

09/04/2004 17:28