Best Real Estate Lawyers in California

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Hydrick Law Group, PLLC
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 2024
2 people in their team
English
Spanish
Real Estate
Hydrick Law Group, PLLC is a Texas-based corporate boutique law firm focused on delivering high-value, practical legal solutions to businesses at every stage of growth. We serve as outside general counsel to corporate clients, providing day-to-day legal support as well as strategic guidance for...
Jones Day
Irvine, United States

Founded in 1893
2,500 people in their team
English
Jones Day has a history of more than 125 years and a culture of client service and professionalism based on explicit shared values. These values include providing pro bono legal services, building diversity in our profession, and supporting outreach efforts around the world.Jones Day has a long...
Rutan & Tucker lawyers
Irvine, United States

Founded in 1955
500 people in their team
English
Rutan & Tucker lawyers are experienced and highly regarded experts, delivering sophisticated and superior client service and value in a wide-range of practice areas, markets and industries. Our lawyers enjoy what they do and appreciate the opportunity to help our clients achieve their goals. We...
Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 1968
707 people in their team
English
At Brownstein, “all in” isn’t just a catchy slogan or an empty claim. It’s an approach we apply to each challenge we take on. And an attitude that keeps our clients coming back, time and time again.This mentality inspires us to put everything in our arsenal to work for you. From our...
San Diego, United States

Founded in 1985
English
Smykowski Law Offices, located in San Diego, California, has been providing comprehensive estate planning services for over 40 years. The firm specializes in creating complete estate plans, including revocable living trusts, wills, durable powers of attorney, and advanced medical directives, all...
Tenant Law Group, PC
San Francisco, United States

Founded in 2016
English
Tenant Law Group, PC, based in California, is a leading law firm dedicated to representing residential and commercial tenants throughout the state. The firm’s legal team possesses extensive experience in handling a wide range of real estate and landlord-tenant matters, including wrongful...
El Segundo, United States

Founded in 2015
English
Stone & Sallus, LLP is a distinguished law firm based in Southern California, offering specialized legal services in business law, real estate law, estate planning, and elder law. The firm's attorneys possess extensive experience in handling complex legal matters, including business compliance,...
Perkins Coie LLP
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 1912
2,875 people in their team
English
Perkins Coie is a leading international law firm that is known for providing high value, strategic solutions and extraordinary client service on matters vital to our clients' success. With more than 1,200 attorneys in offices across the United States and Asia, we provide a full array of corporate,...
Potomac Law Group, PLLC.
Newport Beach, United States

125 people in their team
English
Innovation, Excellence, and ProfessionalismPotomac Law is committed to innovation, excellence, and professionalism. Our value stems directly from the talent and commitment of our attorneys who practice law throughout the United States. Our attorneys have outstanding academic credentials and...
Paul Hastings
Century City, United States

Founded in 1951
5,000 people in their team
English
With widely recognized elite teams in finance, mergers & acquisitions, private equity, restructuring and special situations, litigation, employment and real estate, Paul Hastings is a premier law firm providing superior intellectual capital and execution globally to the world’s leading...
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United States Real Estate Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 2 legal questions about Real Estate in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

What is owner of condo units obligation as far as damage to the condo below their unit.
Landlord & Tenant Real Estate Due Diligence Real Estate
The unit above my condo is managed by a Property Management company, and it was rented. During the time it was rented, there were water leaks that damaged my ceilings, and the Management Company. refuses to fix the ceiling so that it matches the rest of the ceiling. Even though... Read more →
Lawyer answer by Horus Legal Sulotion

Thank you for sharing the details of your situation. Based on the circumstances you described, you may have grounds to escalate the matter legally. You can file a case to request the appointment of a government engineer from Dubai Municipality...

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1 answer
What's the fee for reviewing a Home purchase contract.
Real Estate Contract
How much is your fee for looking over a contract on the house I am about to purchase.
Lawyer answer by US Legal Group 美国法律集团律师事务所

Hi. Thank you for reaching out to us regarding your upcoming property purchase. As a combined China & U.S. law firm, we specialize in real estate transactions and are well-equipped to review your contract.To provide you with a precise quote,...

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1 answer

About Real Estate Law in California, United States

Real Estate law in California governs the buying, selling, leasing, and use of land and property throughout the state. This area of law covers a broad range of issues including property sales, landlord-tenant relations, zoning laws, land use regulations, foreclosure procedures, mortgage lending, and construction. Because California is one of the largest and most diverse real estate markets in the United States, its real estate laws are often more complex and expansive than those in other states. Real estate transactions in California must comply with both federal and state regulations, as well as various local ordinances, which can complicate even straightforward property deals.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations when having a qualified real estate attorney on your side can save you time, money, and trouble. Common reasons for seeking legal help in real estate matters include:

  • Buying or selling a home or commercial property, especially in cases involving complicated contracts
  • Resolving disputes between landlords and tenants, such as eviction proceedings or lease disagreements
  • Handling property boundary disputes with neighbors
  • Dealing with foreclosures or short sales
  • Understanding easements or right of way issues
  • Managing property inherited through a trust or probate process
  • Litigating construction defects or disputes with contractors
  • Negotiating commercial leases or purchases
  • Addressing concerns about title defects, liens, or encumbrances
  • Navigating real estate investments involving partnerships or joint ventures

Real estate attorneys are trained to spot potential legal pitfalls and advocate for your interests, whether you are a homeowner, landlord, tenant, investor, or developer.

Local Laws Overview

California real estate law is guided by a variety of statutes, regulations, and court decisions that establish the legal framework for property transactions and disputes. Some key aspects include:

  • Disclosure Requirements: Sellers must provide certain disclosures to buyers, such as information about known defects, natural hazards, and the presence of lead-based paint in older homes.
  • Rent Control: Some cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Berkeley have strict rent control ordinances limiting how much landlords can increase rent each year.
  • Tenant Rights: California law provides significant protections for tenants against wrongful eviction, including rules about notice periods and security deposit handling.
  • Foreclosure: California has specific timelines and procedures for both judicial and non-judicial foreclosures. Homeowners often have rights to cure defaults or reclaim property before a foreclosure sale.
  • Land Use and Zoning: Local governments regulate how land can be used through zoning ordinances, which impact everything from home additions to commercial developments.
  • Environmental Laws: State and federal regulations address issues such as toxic waste cleanup, endangered species protection, and historic preservation, often impacting real estate development.
  • Escrow Process: Most property transactions in California require an escrow account to ensure all conditions are met before funds and property change hands.
  • Title Insurance: Title insurance is often required to protect against unknown claims or defects in the property title.

Understanding these and other laws is critical for anyone engaging in a real estate transaction in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

What disclosures are required when selling a home in California?

Sellers are required to provide buyers with a Transfer Disclosure Statement and a Natural Hazard Disclosure Statement. These documents detail known material defects, hazard zones such as earthquake or flood areas, and other pertinent information affecting the property.

Do landlords have to return security deposits in California?

Yes. Landlords must return the tenant’s security deposit, minus any lawful deductions, within 21 days of the tenant moving out. Deductions can only be made for unpaid rent, cleaning, and repair of damages beyond normal wear and tear.

How much notice must a landlord give before increasing rent?

For properties covered by state rent control, landlords must provide at least 30 days written notice for rent increases of 10 percent or less, and 90 days for increases above 10 percent.

What is the escrow process in California real estate transactions?

During escrow, a neutral third party holds funds and documents until all terms of the sales agreement are met by both buyer and seller. Once all conditions are satisfied, escrow closes and the property is transferred to the new owner.

Can a tenant be evicted without cause?

Most tenants cannot be evicted without cause if they have lived in the property for over a year. The landlord must show just cause, such as nonpayment of rent or violation of lease terms.

What rights do homeowners have during foreclosure?

Homeowners in California have the right to reinstate the loan or redeem the property before a foreclosure sale is completed. The lender must follow specific legal procedures and provide proper notice.

Do I need to hire a real estate lawyer when buying or selling property?

While not legally required, hiring a real estate lawyer is strongly recommended for complex transactions, such as those involving trusts, disputes, or unusual contract terms.

How are boundary disputes resolved?

Boundary disputes can be settled through negotiation, mediation, or litigation. It often involves a surveyor’s professional opinion and review of property records.

What is title insurance and why is it important?

Title insurance protects buyers and lenders from losses due to title defects, such as unknown liens, unpaid taxes, or fraud. It is commonly required by lenders in California.

What is the role of a real estate agent in California?

Real estate agents help negotiate and facilitate property transactions, provide market analysis, prepare purchase agreements, and ensure legal disclosures are made. They are licensed professionals regulated by the California Department of Real Estate.

Additional Resources

  • California Department of Real Estate - Regulates licensing and provides resources for consumers and professionals.
  • California Association of Realtors - Offers guidance and legal information for buyers, sellers, and agents.
  • California Department of Consumer Affairs - Publishes consumer guides on landlord-tenant laws and home buying.
  • Local county recorder's offices - Source for property records and title documentation.
  • Legal Aid Organizations - Many regions have nonprofits providing free or low-cost legal help in housing matters.
  • City and county government websites - Often provide details about zoning, rent control ordinances, and code enforcement.

Next Steps

If you are facing a real estate issue in California, start by clearly identifying your needs and gathering all related documents, such as contracts, leases, correspondence, and property records. Next, consult reliable resources or government agencies to learn more about your rights and responsibilities. For complex matters or disputes, schedule a consultation with an experienced California real estate attorney. Many attorneys offer initial consultations to assess your situation and outline possible solutions. It is wise to choose a lawyer who is familiar with the specific type of real estate matter you are dealing with and who practices law in the region where your property is located. Taking these steps can help protect your interests and ensure a smooth resolution to your real estate concerns.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in California through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Real Estate, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in California, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.