25 June

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How Much a Landlord Can Raise Rent Under California Rules

in Tenant lawyers in California, United States

A man signing a rental agreement on a clipboard with apartment keys nearby, while two women stand in the background, suggesting a landlord-tenant interaction related to rent terms.

If you’re renting in California, you already know how stressful unexpected rent hikes can be. Under the Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482), most landlords must limit annual increases to 5 percent plus regional CPI—and only once every 12 months. Yet, exemptions, varying notice rules, and local ordinances can complicate the picture. Whether you’re facing a surprise notice or weighing your options, guidance from established tenant lawyers can make all the difference. In the following text, we’ll explain statewide caps, calculate allowable hikes, cover notice requirements, highlight exempt properties, detail city-specific limits, and show you how to challenge unlawful increases....

24 June

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How to Recognize Discrimination Against Immigrants at Work

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice

A woman sitting at a table, looking stressed, while multiple people point at her and hand her documents, symbolizing workplace pressure or discrimination.

Discrimination against immigrants in the workplace isn’t always obvious. It can take the form of unfair hiring, unequal treatment, language-based harassment, or inappropriate questions about immigration status. These behaviors may violate federal law—even when they’re subtle or disguised as company policy. Whether you’re an immigrant worker facing discrimination, someone unsure of what’s legal, or an advocate trying to help, this guide explains what to look for and how to respond. You’ll learn the most common examples, the protections available under U.S. law, and where to find support—including when it may help to speak with an experienced lawyer. We’ll also cover how to...

24 June

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Know Your Rights: What to Do If ICE Comes Knocking

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice

An order regarding extradition, a gavel, a U.S. passport, and an American flag, representing legal proceedings related to immigration enforcement.

If you’re unsure what to do if ICE comes to your door, you’re not alone. These situations are stressful, and it’s hard to know what’s legal—and what isn’t—in the moment. But there’s good news: you have rights, and you can protect yourself by understanding them before anything happens—with the help of clear information and, when needed, an experienced immigration lawyer. This guide breaks down exactly how to respond if immigration agents show up at your home. You’ll learn what kind of warrant they need to enter, how to check it safely, and what to say—or not say—at the door. We’ll also...

24 June

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What to Do If You’re Injured in a Common Area of Your Apartment Complex or Building

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Personal Injury, Tenant Law

A child sits on the grass with a scraped knee next to a fallen bicycle while an adult assists him, illustrating a common area injury in an apartment complex setting.

Getting hurt in the shared spaces of your apartment complex—like the hallway, stairwell, or parking lot—can raise more than just health concerns. You may wonder who is responsible, what your next steps should be, or if it's time to consult with a personal injury lawyer. These are common questions after an accident in a common area, and finding the right answers early matters. This guide walks you through exactly what to do: how to document the incident, when a landlord might be legally at fault, what kind of compensation you could receive, and whether legal representation could make a difference. If...

19 June

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Your Rights if Your Building Is Sold or Foreclosed

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice, Tenant Law, Tenant lawyers in California, United States

how long can tenant stay in foreclosed property

When a landlord faces foreclosure, tenants are often left with more questions than answers. The situation can feel uncertain, but you're not powerless. Understanding your rights as a renter during foreclosure is essential — and in many cases, the law is on your side. In this guide, we’ll walk through what foreclosure means for tenants, what protections federal law provides, how long you can legally stay, and how to handle lease agreements, security deposits, and potential cash offers from new owners. If you're unsure about your situation, speaking with a tenant lawyer can provide clarity. And if your building is going...

04 June

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Does ICE Need a Warrant? Know Your Rights at Home and in Public

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice

Security officers reviewing incident details on a tablet during routine building patrol.

If you're ever approached by ICE—whether at home, in public, or at work—it's essential to know your rights. Do they need a warrant to enter your house? What kind of warrant is valid? Can they arrest you on the spot? This guide explains the key differences between judicial and administrative warrants, when ICE can and can’t enter your home, and how to respond safely in any setting. You’ll also learn why having a qualified immigration lawyer on your side is one of the most important steps you can take. Knowing your rights—and how to assert them—can protect you and your...

04 June

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When Can a Landlord Be Held Liable for Crimes Against Tenants?

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice, Tenant Law

Tenant signing rental agreement with landlord, lease contract and apartment keys visible on table.

Renting a home comes with the expectation of safety and habitability, but what happens when criminal acts occur on the property? While landlords aren’t insurers against every possible harm, they do have a legal duty of care to maintain reasonably secure conditions for tenants. This responsibility can include everything from repairing broken locks to addressing known security risks in high-crime areas. Understanding when a landlord can be held liable—especially in cases where negligence or failure to act on tenant complaints contributes to harm—is essential for renters. If you believe your safety has been compromised due to a landlord’s neglect, consulting a...

02 June

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What Is an ICE Raid—and How Should You Respond? A Lawyer Explains

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice

When immigration enforcement appears unannounced, the consequences stretch far beyond the targeted individual. For tenants—especially immigrants—an ICE raid can turn a quiet morning into a moment of fear, confusion, and lasting instability. And for landlords, missteps in how they respond can carry serious legal consequences. This guide explains what ICE raids are, how they unfold, and what rights and responsibilities apply to everyone involved. From understanding tenant protections to recognizing the legal limits of landlord actions, we’ll cover what matters most. Along the way, you’ll learn when to seek help from experienced tenant lawyers who know how to protect your rights—and...

30 May

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How to Report a Landlord in California – Step‑by‑Step Complaint Process & Tenant Rights

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice, Tenant Law, Tenant lawyers in California, United States

Not every rental experience goes as planned. Sometimes, it’s more than just a leaky faucet or a slow response—it’s serious neglect, unsafe conditions, or even illegal behavior. When that happens, tenants in California have more than frustration—they have rights. California is known for offering some of the strongest tenant protections in the country, making it important for tenants to understand how to navigate the complaint process effectively. Whether you're dealing with a landlord who won’t fix health hazards or facing harassment that crosses the line, there’s a process designed to protect you. And when things go too far, having a California...

30 May

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How to Break a Lease in California Without Penalty: Legal Reasons & Smart Strategies

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice, Tenant Law, Tenant lawyers in California, United States

Finding yourself needing to leave your rental before the lease is up can be stressful. Many tenants worry about significant financial penalties. The good news is that California law offers several legal protections for tenants, but the process depends heavily on the details of your lease and how you handle communication with your landlord. In some cases, having a slumlord attorney in your corner can make all the difference. This guide will walk you through how to break a lease in California without penalty, exploring your rights and options. Understanding Your Lease Agreement: The Starting Point Before taking any action, your first step...

Author: eric_castelblanco