
Legal Services
Specialized representation for California tenants in high-stakes disputes with landlords and property management companies.




No Upfront Fees or Costs*
If your case qualifies, I handle matters on a "contingency" basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we win. Access full scope legal representation regardless of your financial situation.
Hybrid Options Available (Most Popular Choice):
Clients can reduce the percentage of attorney fees deducted later from settlements by advancing certain case expenses (e.g., court filing and process server fees) and/or paying a partial retainer fee for Attorney's initial work—it's an investment in your own case.
*$0 upfront fees and costs does NOT include "Tailored" limited scope services or Hybrid (Partial) Contingency agreements.
About the Attorney

Education
J.D., University of San Diego School of Law
B.A., History, University of California, Los Angeles
Prior Criminal Law Career
For over a decade, I honed trial advocacy skills where stakes are often highest—criminal court. First as a prosecutor in two District Attorney's Offices, then as the founder of my own criminal defense firm, I handled hundreds of cases annually, was in court almost daily, tried dozens of cases to jury verdict (my win rate excluding my very first trials: nearly perfect as both a prosecutor and defense attorney), and represented clients charged with the most serious of offenses, including murder.
Transition to Tenant Rights Civil Litigation
As it turns out, extensive experience in criminal courtrooms prepares one well for landlord-tenant litigation, which are fiercely fought cases. I first learned tenant law while serving as Trial Counsel at a prominent plaintiff tenants' firm specializing in lawsuits against landlords. When I re-opened my own law office, I transitioned to 100% tenant law where I represent tenants in buyout settlements or former tenants in lawsuits against landlords for negligence, constructive and/or wrongful eviction, severe habitability violations, harassment, and other claims.
Ari Rief, Esq.
Tenant Rights Trial Attorney
About Rief Legal, P.C.

Statewide Cases
I handle civil cases statewide, focusing on large rent-controlled cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland. Most matters are handled remotely, with travel as needed for trials.

Flexible Remote Meetings
Conveniently book calls or virtual meetings that conveniently fit within your schedule. In-person office appointments are always an option, too.

One Lawyer, Start to Finish
No handoffs to less experienced associates—I handle your case myself, including trial, and limit case volume to provide quality representation and a personalized experience for each client.




