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Los Angeles County

Landlord-Tenant Lawyer in Santa Monica

Santa Monica has among the strongest tenant protections in California with a long-standing elected Rent Control Board, a large stock of rent-controlled apartments from pre-1979 construction, and premium coastal rents.

Baghikian Law serves clients in Santa Monica and the surrounding Los Angeles County area. We represent both landlords and tenants in eviction and unlawful detainer matters, and we represent tenants in habitability, wrongful-eviction, and rent-control disputes. Our firm brings precision, speed, and consistent communication to every case.

Landlord-tenant law is highly local. Notice requirements, just-cause rules, and rent ordinances differ between jurisdictions, and the details often decide the case. Unlawful detainer matters for Santa Monica are generally heard at the Santa Monica Courthouse, 1725 Main St., Santa Monica 90401. Santa Monica Rent Control Law (City Charter Article XVIII), one of the oldest and strictest in California. Covers apartments built before April 10, 1979.

We serve renters and owners throughout Santa Monica, including Downtown Santa Monica, Pico Neighborhood, Mid-City Santa Monica, Ocean Park, and Wilshire Montana.

How We Help Santa Monica Clients

Eviction and Unlawful Detainer

We represent both landlords and tenants in Santa Monica unlawful detainer and eviction matters.

Santa Monica eviction lawyer

Wrongful and Constructive Eviction

We hold Santa Monica landlords accountable for lockouts, shutoffs, and harassment.

Santa Monica wrongful lawyer
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FAQ

Questions from Santa Monica Clients

How long does an eviction take in Santa Monica?
An uncontested case in Santa Monica typically runs 30 to 45 days from service of the unlawful detainer through judgment, plus the sheriff's notice-to-vacate period. A contested case that goes to trial usually takes 60 to 90 days, and local backlogs can add more.
Which court hears eviction cases for Santa Monica?
Unlawful detainer cases for Santa Monica are generally filed at the Santa Monica Courthouse, 1725 Main St., Santa Monica 90401. The exact filing location is set by the property ZIP code under the Los Angeles Superior Court local rules.
How many days does a Santa Monica tenant have to respond to an eviction?
As of 2025, a tenant served with an unlawful detainer summons in Santa Monica has 10 business days to file a written response. Missing that window can lead to a default judgment, so both landlords and tenants should act quickly.