In July of 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2288 and Senate Bill No. 92 into law, introducing significant changes to California's the Labor Code Private Attorneys General Act of 2004 (PAGA). This legislation would allow employers to reduce their penalties if mitigating factors exist, but also expands on who an employee can file a claim on behalf of.
Owning a rental property can be a great investment, but when that property sits vacant, it becomes vulnerable to trespassers, squatters, and potential vandalism. If you have an empty rental property, taking proactive measures to protect it is essential. Two key steps to safeguarding your property are posting "No Trespassing" signs and filing a trespass authorization letter with your local police or sheriff’s department. Here’s what you need to know and why these measures are critical.
Adverse possession allows individuals to claim ownership of neglected property if they meet specific legal requirements. In California, claimants must openly and continuously occupy the property for at least five years, pay property taxes during that period, and meet conditions such as hostile, actual, and exclusive possession. Landowners can challenge claims by proving interruptions or legal disabilities. Adverse possession cases are complex, and consulting an experienced attorney is essential for claimants or property owners seeking to protect their rights.
A real estate lawyer plays a crucial role in property transactions and disputes, ensuring legal compliance and protecting clients’ interests. In Downey and Los Angeles County, these attorneys practice in the area of drafting contracts, resolving landlord-tenant disputes, handling mortgage or title issues, and litigating real estate cases. They assist buyers and investors with multi-unit properties, advising on zoning laws, disclosures, and tax-efficient strategies. Whether purchasing a home, managing rental properties, or dealing with foreclosure, a skilled real estate lawyer provides peace of mind and safeguards your investment. Their expertise ensures smooth transactions and effective resolution of legal challenges.
The article educates real estate professionals on key differences between AIR and CAR purchase agreements, emphasizing contingency removal, escrow closing, dispute resolution, assignment rights, and estoppel certificates.
In the dynamic world of real estate, fiduciary duty remains a cornerstone of the agent-client relationship. However, a recent California appellate court ruling has brought renewed attention to the legal and financial implications of breaches of fiduciary duty by real estate professionals. This ar...
The Immigrant Rights Defense Council, LLC strengthens immigration consultants' defenses against ICA lawsuits, as it limits a Plaintiff's ability to surcharge the immigration Consultant's Surety bond.
Senate Bill 1103, known as the Commercial Tenant Protection Act (SB 1103) was signed into law on September 30, 2024 and becomes effective on January 1, 2025. The Act extends protections and notice requirements to “qualified commercial tenants”, which previously only applied to residential tenants.
In California, adjustments and credits in partition actions, including attorney fees and property expenses, are not discharged in bankruptcy. These equitable offsets, governed by California Code of Civil Procedure §§ 872.140 and 874.010 et seq., ensure fairness in co-ownership disputes. Even when a co-owner files for bankruptcy, courts honor these adjustments as they preserve property value and reflect financial responsibilities. Relief from the automatic bankruptcy stay is often required to enforce such equitable resolutions
California’s 2025 laws bring changes to ADU amnesty, balcony inspections, buyer agreements, and tenant protections. Key updates include extended deadlines for inspections, mandatory buyer representation agreements, stricter rules for security deposits, and protections for abuse victims. Landlords must comply with expanded documentation requirements and fair rental practices, while probate thresholds and small-business tenant rights are improved. Compliance involves using checklists, transparent processes, and timely documentation to align with these new regulations, enhancing fairness, safety, and accountability in real estate.
What Is a Conservatorship and Who Is It For? When someone is no longer able to handle his or her own financial or personal affairs, the Court can appoint an individual or professional to act on behalf of the incapacitated person. The legal terminology for these protective proceedings varies state...
RISKS TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN REFINANCING YOUR HOME If you are a homeowner who was lucky enough to buy when mortgage rates were low, you may have no interest in refinancing your present loan. However, if you bought your home when rates were higher, or perhaps you have an adjustable rate loan and wou...
Be Careful When Providing a Recorded Statement to The Insurance Company. It's common to be involved in a car accident that wasn't your fault. A few days after the accident, the adjuster for the insurance company of the person who hit you will call you on the phone. The insurance company will ask ...
When facing a property line dispute, take a deep breath before jumping to conclusions. Remember that you still have to live next to your neighbors, but don't let property line encroachments go unanswered. Inaction could haunt you when it's time to sell and it could also cost you part of your land...
At the Law Offices of Steve Lopez, we represent individuals, families and businesses throughout California in legal matters ranging from Real Estate, Civil Litigation, Family Law, and Estate Planning.