{"id":369207,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:16","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ability-fl-prod.internetbrands.com\/ability-law\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/get-legal-help-with-a-landlord-tenant-issue.html"},"modified":"2026-10-07T11:43:00","modified_gmt":"2026-10-07T16:43:00","slug":"get-legal-help-with-a-landlord-tenant-issue","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/get-legal-help-with-a-landlord-tenant-issue.html","title":{"rendered":"When Should Landlords Hire an Attorney?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">When Should Landlords Hire an Attorney?<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/robert-rafii-esq\/\">Robert Rafii, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/robert-rafii-esq\/\">Robert Rafii, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            October 07, 2026\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-key-takeaways fl-mb30\" data-testid=\"fl-key-takeaways\">\n    <div class=\"fl-card-content\">\n        <div class=\"fl-card-body fl-card-bg-teal fl-flex fl-flex-column\">\n                            <h2 class=\"fl-card-title fl-h2 fl-no-margin\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n                        <ul>\n<li>Hire an attorney when you\u2019re dealing with evictions, complex lease violations, discrimination complaints, or anything that could expose you to liability.<\/li>\n<li>A lawyer can review rental agreements, negotiate with tenants, and help resolve conflicts before they escalate into court.<\/li>\n<li>If tenants allege habitability problems, rights violations, or injury claims, legal help ensures you\u2019re on equal footing and protects your property interests.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"fl-rich-text\">\n<h1>When Should <span data-term-id=\"60200533\">Landlords<\/span> Hire an Attorney?<\/h1>\n<p>You may have a problem with a tenant, but you\u2019re unsure how to resolve it effectively. You might be wondering whether to solve it by:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Confronting the tenant on your own<\/li>\n<li>Suing your renters in court<\/li>\n<li>Calling the police (in unique circumstances)<\/li>\n<li>Letting it go and being the bigger person<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"60200533\">Landlords<\/span>\u00a0who enter into a\u00a0<span data-term-id=\"60200538\">lease agreement<\/span>\u00a0and rent a house or apartment to a tenant may face potential legal issues and disputes. An attorney can be a true asset for <span data-term-id=\"60200533\">landlords<\/span> seeking to protect their legal rights. A seasoned lawyer can provide priceless legal aid if you:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Need help reviewing or negotiating the terms of a lease or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/rental-lease-agreements.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60200540\">rental agreement<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li>Are facing the prospect of <span data-term-id=\"60200544\">evicting a tenant<\/span> or filing an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/eviction-and-unlawful-detainer.html\">unlawful detainer action<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Have been accused of committing a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/tenants-and-fair-housing.html\">fair housing<\/a>\u00a0violation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>While legal services might cost money, legal help pays off in the long run. Having a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/landlord-tenant\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"60200546\">landlord<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200546\">-tenant attorney<\/span><\/a> can help you get the best possible outcome. Keep reading to learn more.<\/p>\n<h2>How a <span data-term-id=\"60200546\">Landlord<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200546\">-Tenant Attorney<\/span> Can Help <span data-term-id=\"60200547\">Property Owners<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Don\u2019t proceed without adequate legal information and advocacy if you are involved in a <span data-term-id=\"60200569\">legal dispute<\/span> with a tenant. You may be rightfully concerned about your legal rights and obligations. This can happen at any stage in the <span data-term-id=\"60200533\">landlord<\/span>-tenant relationship. You should speak with an attorney with experience in <span data-term-id=\"60200539\">landlord<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200539\">-tenant law<\/span> who will:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Evaluate your case with you<\/li>\n<li>Use their legal resources to analyze the unique facts of your case<\/li>\n<li>Ensure that your legal rights are fully assessed and protected<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Perhaps you need to go to court for an <span data-term-id=\"60200534\">eviction<\/span> or have questions about how to word a <span data-term-id=\"60200540\">rental agreement<\/span> properly. An attorney will take the time to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/landlord-tenant-law.html\">explain the situation and address your concerns<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>If a <span data-term-id=\"60200548\">lawsuit<\/span> becomes necessary, a lawyer can help:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Research the law and plan a legal strategy<\/li>\n<li>Review documents, including the <span data-term-id=\"60200538\">lease agreement<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Interview witnesses and collect records<\/li>\n<li>Confer with expert consultants<\/li>\n<li>Negotiate with tenants, tenant associations, insurers, and opposing counsel<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A lawyer can do this to strengthen your position and get the best results.<\/p>\n<h2>Reviewing Your <span data-term-id=\"60200538\">Lease Agreement<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Rental contracts are complicated documents. Consider having a lawyer review your lease before sending it for signatures. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/rental-lease-agreements.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60200538\">lease agreement<\/span><\/a> will have important information about your renter\u2019s:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Term of tenancy<\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"60200537\">Security deposit<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Prohibitions on certain activities on your property<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Your lease contract must also follow local laws. Some cities have specific requirements about what <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/how-to-make-a-free-residential-lease-agreement.html\">may and may not go into the agreement<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Stay Out of Court: Negotiating Your <span data-term-id=\"60200561\">Rental Dispute<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Your tenant might have done something to upset you. Don&#8217;t react emotionally, especially if it means taking matters into your own hands. An emotional <span data-term-id=\"60200533\">landlord<\/span> might wrongfully retaliate by locking you out, preventing you from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/landlords-duties-regarding-repairs-maintenance-and-to-provide.html\">entering the rental unit<\/a>. Or they might improperly deny a tenant access to water, electricity, or even the mailbox where they get their utility bills. This is illegal.<\/p>\n<p>An attorney can respond calmly and level-headed to an unruly tenant. If there\u2019s a language barrier, some lawyers can help overcome communication challenges. When you interview an attorney or law firm, ask if there are bilingual legal professionals on staff. Some attorneys may also use a translator or interpreter.<\/p>\n<p>This can ease negotiations between tenants and <span data-term-id=\"60200552\">property managers<\/span>. For instance, in an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/landlord-tenant-disputes-faqs.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60200534\">eviction<\/span> scenario<\/a>, you should negotiate with a lawyer\u2019s guidance rather than going to court immediately. Your lawyer might help resolve the situation amicably without involving you in <span data-term-id=\"60200557\">litigation<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h2>Defending Against Renters\u2019 Rights Claims<\/h2>\n<p>Keep in mind that your tenant might have an attorney of their own. They may have a non-profit legal aid organization or other self-help provider offering free <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/do-you-need-a-lawyer\/what-is-legal-advice.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60200553\">legal advice<\/span><\/a>. As a homeowner, you might think you have the upper hand just because you own the property. But without your own lawyer, you won\u2019t be on an even playing field.<\/p>\n<p>An attorney is vital in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/going-to-court\/small-claims-court.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60200575\">small claims court<\/span><\/a> or when you\u2019re defending against tenant claims such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/civilrights\/discrimination\/housing-discrimination.html\">Housing <span data-term-id=\"60200536\">discrimination<\/span><\/a>\u00a0or other rights violations<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/what-is-the-implied-warranty-of-habitability.html\">Habitability<\/a>\u00a0of your <span data-term-id=\"60200535\">rental property<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"60200550\">Personal\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/liability-for-tenant-injuries-and-insurance-for-landlords.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60200550\">injury<\/span> and insurance claims<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Rental assistance and low-income housing entitlements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Free Online Resources for <span data-term-id=\"60200533\">Landlords<\/span>: <span data-term-id=\"60200544\">Evicting a Tenant<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Before taking action, you should familiarize yourself with your state\u2019s <span data-term-id=\"60200559\">eviction<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200559\"> procedures<\/span>. Because\u00a0<span data-term-id=\"60200541\">eviction<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200541\"> processes<\/span>\u00a0can differ greatly from state to state,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">you need to know your state\u2019s\u00a0<span data-term-id=\"60200539\">landlord<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200539\">-tenant laws<\/span><\/a>. You can usually find an outline of the procedure on the website of your:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>State consumer affairs department<\/li>\n<li>State or local housing agency<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/landlord-property-associations.html\">Local <span data-term-id=\"60200533\">landlord<\/span>-tenant associations<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.courts.ca.gov\/27723.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">California courts website<\/a>, for example, provides a detailed, step-by-step overview of how to <span data-term-id=\"60200544\">evict<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200544\"> a tenant<\/span> in California. Most such resources will include self-help information about:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Links to court forms<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit.html\">Serving <span data-term-id=\"60200548\">lawsuit<\/span> papers<\/a><\/li>\n<li>What happens at trial<\/li>\n<li>What to do after the suit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Follow your state\u2019s procedure closely. Failure to comply with all requirements can result in penalties and expose you to civil liability.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>Sometimes, a legal issue is too complicated to resolve using online legal resources alone. An\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/landlord-tenant\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">experienced local landlord-tenant lawyer<\/a>\u00a0can help you or your property manager take legal action immediately. If you\u2019re a property owner experiencing issues with your rental unit, hiring a lawyer now can save you money later.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Low-Cost Legal Options for <span data-term-id=\"60200533\">Landlords<\/span>: Legal Aid and Free Consultations<\/h2>\n<p>You may have researched your state\u2019s <span data-term-id=\"60200534\">eviction<\/span> policies but still have more questions. Common <span data-term-id=\"60200533\">landlord<\/span> and tenant issues lend themselves to <span data-term-id=\"60200573\">legal assistance<\/span> on:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Grounds for <span data-term-id=\"60200534\">eviction<\/span> and different types of <span data-term-id=\"60200562\">eviction<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200562\"> notices<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Rent payments, late fees, and <span data-term-id=\"60200565\">security deposit<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200565\"> disputes<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Fair housing <span data-term-id=\"60200536\">discrimination<\/span> issues and <span data-term-id=\"60200549\">tenant rights<\/span> (including\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/tenants-and-fair-housing.html\">fair housing laws<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"60200538\">Lease agreement<\/span> interpretations<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate.html\">Real estate laws<\/a>, including state laws on tenancy that protect renters<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you can\u2019t afford a private attorney, you may be eligible for legal aid. Clinics and other legal aid services offer free or discounted legal help to those who can\u2019t afford to hire a legal professional.<\/p>\n<p>To qualify, you\u2019ll likely need to prove you can&#8217;t afford an attorney. Contact your state or local housing agency for legal aid services and clinics in your area specializing in\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/landlord-tenant-disputes\/\"><span data-term-id=\"60200554\">landlord<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200554\">-tenant disputes<\/span><\/a>\u00a0and other housing issues.<\/p>\n<p>You may want to consult with a legal professional but still worry about <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/attorney-fees-and-agreements.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60200555\">attorney\u2019s fees<\/span><\/a>. Finding the right lawyer can be expensive and time-consuming. You can cut costs by seeking out lawyers who offer free consultations. With a free consultation, your initial visit with an attorney is free. Of course, once you decide on a lawyer, you\u2019ll have to pay for any subsequent visits.<\/p>\n<h2>Finding a <span data-term-id=\"60200546\">Landlord<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200546\">-Tenant Attorney<\/span> Near You<\/h2>\n<p>To help you resolve your <span data-term-id=\"60200533\">landlord<\/span>-tenant issues, get legal help from a lawyer. A\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/landlord-tenant\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"60200546\">landlord<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200546\">-tenant attorney<\/span><\/a>\u00a0can advocate for your interests and help you protect your rights as a\u00a0<span data-term-id=\"60200535\">rental <\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200547\">property<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200547\"> owner<\/span>. They can negotiate on your behalf and, if necessary, <span data-term-id=\"60200568\">represent you in court<\/span>. Having experienced legal help on your side is your best chance at protecting your business and rental income and <span data-term-id=\"60200566\">recovering damages<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>FindLaw\u2019s directory of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/landlord-tenant\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"60200543\">landlord<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60200543\">-tenant lawyers<\/span><\/a> can get you started. Enter your city or ZIP code for a list of legal professionals in your area. Because state and local laws are relevant, your attorney should be licensed in the state where the property is. Your search results will also show important details about prospective attorneys, like ratings, areas of practice, and whether they offer free consultations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g 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                 >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Legal help is key for issues with legal risk, such as <span data-term-id=\"60200534\">evictions<\/span> or complex <span data-term-id=\"60200558\">lease violations<\/span>\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Some tenant or neighbor disputes may need the help of local police\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Consult a lawyer when a dispute escalates, including threats of nonpayment, <span data-term-id=\"60200560\">property damage<\/span>, or <span data-term-id=\"60200536\">discrimination<\/span> complaints\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>Buying or selling a home, facing foreclosure, or landlord-tenant issues can benefit from legal expertise. An attorney can offer tailored advice and help prevent common mistakes.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/real-estate-law\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL43\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\"\n                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rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<section\n        class=\"fl-google-preferred-card fl-flex fl-flex-column fl-items-center fl-gap10 fl-text-center fl-mt30 fl-mb30\"\n        data-testid=\"google-preferred-card\"\n>\n    <h2\n            class=\"fl-google-preferred-card-title fl-no-margin\"\n            data-testid=\"google-preferred-card-title\"\n    >\n        Did FindLaw Help You Understand This Legal Issue?\n    <\/h2>\n    <p\n            class=\"fl-google-preferred-card-paragraph fl-text-sm fl-no-margin\"\n            data-testid=\"google-preferred-card-paragraph\"\n    >\n        Make It a Preferred Google Search Source\n    <\/p>\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/preferences\/source?q=https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" class=\"fl-button fl-link-button secondary fl-google-preferred-card-button google-pref-link fl-mt20\" aria-disabled=\"false\" data-testid=\"google-preferred-card-link\" aria-label=\"Google Preferred\">\n    <span\n            class=\"fl-button-start-icon fl-flex fl-items-center\"\n            data-testid=\"google-preferred-card-icon\"\n    >\n      <svg\n              width=\"18\"\n              height=\"18\"\n              viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\"\n              fill=\"none\"\n              xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\n              aria-hidden=\"true\"\n      >\n        <path\n                d=\"M17.64 9.2c0-.637-.057-1.251-.164-1.84H9v3.481h4.844c-.209 1.125-.843 2.078-1.796 2.716v2.259h2.908c1.702-1.567 2.684-3.875 2.684-6.615z\"\n                fill=\"#4285F4\"\n        ><\/path>\n        <path\n                d=\"M9 18c2.43 0 4.467-.806 5.956-2.184l-2.908-2.259c-.806.54-1.837.86-3.048.86-2.344 0-4.328-1.584-5.036-3.711H.957v2.332A8.997 8.997 0 0 0 9 18z\"\n                fill=\"#34A853\"\n        ><\/path>\n        <path\n                d=\"M3.964 10.706A5.41 5.41 0 0 1 3.682 9c0-.593.102-1.17.282-1.706V4.962H.957A8.996 8.996 0 0 0 0 9c0 1.452.348 2.827.957 4.038l3.007-2.332z\"\n                fill=\"#FBBC05\"\n        ><\/path>\n        <path\n                d=\"M9 3.58c1.321 0 2.508.454 3.44 1.345l2.582-2.58C13.463.891 11.426 0 9 0A8.997 8.997 0 0 0 .957 4.962L3.964 7.294C4.672 5.163 6.656 3.58 9 3.58z\"\n                fill=\"#EA4335\"\n        ><\/path>\n      <\/svg>\n    <\/span>\n        <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Add to Google<\/span>\n    <\/a>\n<\/section>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/legal-help-resources\/landlords-get-help-now.html\">\n                        How Real Estate Lawyers Support Landlords\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-start-an-airbnb-business.html\">\n                        How To Turn Your Property Into a Vacation Rental\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/neighbors\/neighbor-disputes.html\">\n                        Neighbor Disputes\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/landlord-tenant\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Landlord\/Tenant Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/land-use-zoning\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Land Use and Zoning Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/foreclosure-alternatives\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Foreclosure and Alternatives Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/construction-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Construction Law Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/real-estate-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Real Estate Law Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/eminent-domain\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Eminent Domain Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/construction-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Construction Law Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A lawyer can help landlords protect their business and resolve tenant disputes. Learn when rental property owners should get legal help and more at FindLaw.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":369187,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","_cf_multicollab_revision_bundle":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":["SEO Title Length","Alt Text for All Images","Category Assigned","External Links"]},"categories":[2741],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-369207","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-realestate"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/369207","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=369207"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/369207\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":414111,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/369207\/revisions\/414111"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/369187"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=369207"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=369207"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=369207"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=369207"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=369207"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}