A landlord-tenant lawyer in San Francisco represents both landlords and tenants in disputes involving leases, evictions, security deposits, habitability issues, and fair housing violations. An experienced San Francisco landlord-tenant attorney knows local housing laws inside and out and will protect your rights whether you're a property owner or a renter.
Landlord-tenant lawyer fees vary. Eviction filing (landlord): $500–$3,000 flat fee. Eviction defense (tenant): $500–$2,500 or free through legal aid. Hourly: $150–$400/hr for complex disputes. Free consultations are widely available.
Typical fee structure: Flat fee ($500–$3,000) or hourly ($150–$400/hr)
Average settlement/outcome: $1,000 – $50,000+
Eviction filing (landlord): $500–$3,000 flat fee. Eviction defense (tenant): $500–$2,500 or free legal aid. Hourly: $150–$400/hr for complex matters.
It depends on your state, city, and lease terms. In rent-controlled areas or during a lease term, landlords generally need cause. Month-to-month tenants may be evicted with proper notice.
Document issues in writing, send a formal repair request, contact local housing authorities, and consult an attorney about rent withholding or repair-and-deduct remedies.
Most states require landlords to return deposits within 14–60 days with an itemized list of deductions. If they don't, an attorney can help you recover the deposit plus penalties.
Varies by state: typically 2–8 weeks for uncontested evictions. Contested cases can take 1–6 months depending on court backlogs and complexity.
Right to habitable housing, privacy, return of security deposit, protection from retaliation, and fair housing protections. An attorney can explain your specific state and local rights.