The Law Offices of Richard F. Kelly

With over 5000 eviction cases, attorney Richard F. Kelly can protect your rights as a tenant against unlawful detainers, slumlords or discrimination.

As a renter, you have many legal rights, from the time you begin apartment-hunting to the rental agreement to ongoing property maintenance – and even if you are being evicted by your landlord. These rights, which are included in Federal and California fair housing regulations, contract laws and building codes, include protection from discrimination and harassment, the right to habitable premises and timely repairs, accessibility if you are in a wheelchair or otherwise disabled, and safeguards against eviction if you have not violated your lease.

If you feel your rights may have been breached by your landlord – or even a potential landlord – or you are involved in eviction proceedings, you need an experienced landlord/tenant lawyer who can help you navigate unfamiliar legal waters. In San Mateo County or the greater Bay Area, attorney Richard F. Kelly is available to advocate for you. In his 27-year career, he has worked all sides of over 5,000 eviction cases, as prosecuter, defender and former Commissioner and has gained extensive knowledge of residential real estate law. He will fight aggressively for your legal rights, help you to gain more time, educate you thoroughly and steer you to the best resources in order to minimize your out-of-pocket legal expenses.

Because legal fees are a huge consideration for tenants, it can be tempting to “do it yourself” using the Internet, self-help books or other resources. However, there are many factors that determine whether a tenant may withhold rent when it is normally otherwise due to the landlord, including the condition of the property, the legal relationship between the parties and/or statutory defenses to such actions. What’s more, making mistakes on any notice letters may hurt your chances should your landlord decide to sue for breach of contract, and may also seriously damage your credit record, making it difficult to rent properties in the future. And only an experienced attorney can present your defense in a clear, concise and convincing manner before a judge, jury or arbitrator.

You will not find a more knowledgeable, patient or tireless attorney to work on your behalf than Richard F. Kelly.