Well, the time has finally come. As of July 1, 2022, California’s state-wide eviction moratorium protections have ended. With few exceptions, this leaves many landlords the opportunity to regain possession of units, and for the tenant, an uphill battle in resolving back owed rent and potentially needing to find new housing. The scenario is really stressful, expensive, and complicated for both landlords and tenants. Here is some important information and suggestions to help you move forward in this process.

In the beginning of the pandemic many businesses, functions, and processes had to somehow be converted to a virtual platform or way to be performed remotely. Many thought this was a temporary solution that would likely revert when restrictions were lifted, but we are now discovering that things have simply… changed. Mediation is no different, and its virtual operation seems popular enough to continue for a number of reasons.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been federal, state, and local eviction moratoriums. They have been ever-changing and overlapping in some circumstances, leading to a lot of confusion—particularly in California. One thing is becoming clear though, the end of all protections is near. Both residential and commercial landlords and tenants have some unpleasant business to attend to, and mediation can help them do it at the lowest cost and greatest benefit!

Mediation is something that many seem clueless about, but once they are aware, can use mediation to their advantage in saving major costs, and getting past difficult and stressful situations expeditiously. The process is very informal compared to court, but there are still some things you’ll want to consider and be ready for before mediation to get the most out of your time. This is your “how-to” in preparation and fostering a better environment for discussion and negotiations!

Retaliation and wrongful termination are two things that can get employers into trouble, potentially six-figure-mistake kind of trouble. When making policy and important on the spot employment decisions, knowledge and understanding of key laws are vital to avoiding the potential for trouble later. Here are some thoughts on how to set yourself up for success, and minimize the likelihood of costly mistakes when hiring, firing, etc.

Since the state of California extended its eviction moratorium in April through June 30, there has been little information about how it will work, and what landlords and tenants should do about it. Here are some key points and resolution ideas for all involved, as well as some thoughts for commercial tenants behind on rent.