Eviction Lawyer in Los Angeles

Nuiscance or Illegal Activity

Holdover Tenancy

Baghikian Law handles all types of Unlawful Detainer Cases

Baghikian Law Firm provides focused unlawful detainer and eviction defense services across Los Angeles for tenants and landlords facing eviction disputes. We begin by listening carefully to your situation, determining whether the eviction is lawful, and documenting procedural or substantive defects, such as improper notice, lack of jurisdiction, failure to comply with statutory notice periods, or retaliatory or discriminatory motivations. With over 5 years of experience handling eviction matters throughout Los Angeles, our team explains your rights under California's unlawful detainer law and local eviction ordinances, and guides you through options like cure notices, stipulations to stay, motions to quash service, demurrers where appropriate, settlement negotiations, or trial defense strategies.

We handle evidence gathering to build a strong defense: obtaining copies of the lease and notices, photographing unit conditions, collecting witness and tenant statements, securing inspection or repair records when habitability issues are relevant, and preserving communications with landlords or property managers. If informal negotiations fail, we prepare and file responsive pleadings, motions, and trial briefs, and represent you at hearings and trials to seek dismissal, a stay, or favorable settlement terms, such as relocation assistance or retention of tenancy. For cases involving unlawful eviction, retaliation, or discrimination, we pursue statutory remedies and damages when warranted.

Throughout the process, we prioritize clear, personalized communication and affordable representation, tailoring strategies to each client’s goals—whether defeating the eviction, negotiating more time to relocate, or obtaining compensation. We also advise clients on anti-retaliation protections, rent control and local just-cause ordinances, and the interplay between habitability defenses and unlawful detainer actions. If your matter involves related issues like lease termination, security deposit disputes, or coordination with public benefits and social services, we create a custom plan and quote to address all concerns and protect your housing stability.

Nonpayment of Rent

Breach of Lease

  • Nonpayment of Rent

    This is the most common type.

    It happens when a tenant fails to pay rent and the landlord serves a 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit. If the tenant does not pay the full amount within those three days, the landlord can file an unlawful detainer action.


    The notice must be properly drafted and legally compliant. If it is defective, the case can be dismissed.

  • This applies when a tenant violates a lease term but can fix the problem.

    Examples:

    • Unauthorized pets

    • Unauthorized occupants

    • Illegal subletting

    • Noise violations

    • Failure to maintain the unit

    The landlord must serve a 3-Day Notice to Perform Covenant or Quit. If the tenant corrects the violation in time, eviction cannot proceed.

  • Some lease violations are so serious they are not fixable.

    Examples:

    • Criminal activity on the premises

    • Drug sales

    • Substantial property damage

    • Threats to other tenants

    In these cases, the landlord may serve a 3-Day Notice to Quit with no option to fix the issue.

    These cases often move quickly and require strong evidence.

  • This occurs when:

    • A fixed-term lease ends and the tenant refuses to move out

    • A month-to-month tenancy is properly terminated with 30- or 60-day notice and the tenant stays

    The landlord must properly serve the termination notice before filing the unlawful detainer action.

    In rent-controlled or just-cause jurisdictions, additional requirements apply.

Our Process
How We Work With Our Clients

Every case follows the same standard of care — meticulous preparation, clear communication, and aggressive advocacy at every stage.

01
Investigate the Facts

Every case starts with details. We review leases, notices, communications, inspection reports, photos, medical records, and repair history. We build a factual foundation before making any legal moves.

02
Identify Leverage Early

Whether it's habitability, eviction defense, or a landlord dispute — the key is finding pressure points fast. Code violations, improper notice, failure to repair. We find the weaknesses and use them strategically.

03
Act Decisively & Communicate Clearly

We move cases forward — demand letters, motions, negotiations, trial prep. At every stage, you know exactly what's happening, what the risks are, and what comes next. No confusion. No guessing.

04
Protect Long-Term Interests

Some cases go beyond the immediate dispute. Credit impact, future housing, financial exposure, business reputation. We structure resolutions that protect our clients long after the case is closed.

Client Testimonials
What Our Clients Say

We had the pleasure of working with Vahe on a complex eviction case, and we couldn't have been happier with the high level of service we received. Vahe's deep expertise and careful attention to detail were evident throughout the entire process. Not only did he provide clear, practical legal guidance, but he was also a pleasure to work with — always responsive and attentive, making us feel like a top priority. We are truly grateful for his hard work and dedication.

— Paola N.

Working with Baghikian Law Firm has been a pleasure and truly a life-saver. Attorney Vahe Baghikian provided tremendous help with my case, offering knowledgeable and attentive representation. He carefully listened to my concerns, clearly explained the process, and continually checked on my well-being. If you are seeking a firm that genuinely cares about its clients, I recommend not looking any further.

— Selah V.

We had a tricky situation with a fire inspector who was intent on making our lives difficult. Upon finding Vahe and his firm, he was extremely helpful and knowledgeable from the get go. He knew how to approach the situation and handled the entire thing from beginning to end — even going to court on our behalf. The inspector commented that it was handled well. I would highly recommend Vahe and his firm.

— Ryder F.