Eviction Proceedings (Unlawful Detainers) for Landlords

Borna Houman Law represents landlords and property owners in California eviction proceedings. We do not represent tenants. An unlawful detainer is a fast, technical lawsuit, and one defective notice sends the owner back to the start.

Call (888) 42-BORNA to schedule a confidential consultation.

Representing Landlords in Eviction Actions

For landlords, regaining possession of rental property can be challenging, especially when tenants refuse to vacate. Borna assists landlords in filing and pursuing unlawful detainer actions efficiently. This includes ensuring proper notice requirements are met, drafting eviction lawsuits, representing landlords in court, and securing possession orders. By navigating the legal complexities of eviction proceedings, Borna helps landlords enforce lease agreements while adhering to California laws.

Defeating Tenant Defenses

Most contested evictions turn on the tenant’s defenses, not the owner’s claim. The common ones are a defective notice, improper service, a habitability defense under Code of Civil Procedure section 1174.2, a retaliation claim under Civil Code section 1942.5, and a failure to comply with a local just cause or rent stabilization ordinance. We review the notice, the service, and the repair record before the case is filed, because a defense that is anticipated can usually be closed off in the notice itself.

Rent Control Compliance and Local Ordinances

Many Los Angeles County cities add their own rules to state law, including the City of Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Culver City. An eviction notice that is valid under state law can still fail for missing a local just cause ground, a required filing with the city, or relocation assistance. We advise owners on the ordinance that applies to the building before any notice is served.

Defending Retaliation and Wrongful Eviction Claims

Tenants often answer an eviction with a claim of their own. Civil Code section 1942.5 restricts evictions within 180 days after a tenant’s habitability complaint, and local anti-harassment ordinances add separate exposure. We defend landlords against retaliation and wrongful eviction claims, and we build the notice and the record so the lawful ground for the eviction can be proven at trial.

For the full process, timelines, and costs, see our unlawful detainer attorney Los Angeles page and our Los Angeles landlord attorney page.

Borna Houman, California State Bar No. 352339, represents landlords and property owners from 2530 Wilshire Blvd in Santa Monica. Call (888) 42-BORNA to schedule a confidential consultation.