We take every case seriously, listening to what the client has to say, and helping them throughout the case - not just with their legal problems, but with how they are dealing with things on a personal level. When you or a loved one has been injured, there is usually more to worry about than a lawsuit. We will help you with going back to work issues, and with finding compensation while you are out of work. >> Learn more
Landlord/tenant laws are among the most complex and detailed in the nation. All landlords, both large and small, and many tenants need expert legal guidance to help them operate in this complicated environment. Stephen Guillette has honed his expertise delivering satisfying results to landlords and tenants for almost fifteen years. >> Learn more
If you've applied for Social Security disability benefits, odds are that your claim has been denied. Please don't give up. People with legitimate illnesses and disabilities often get turned down twice and then must go before a judge to obtain benefits. Whether your case involves getting you the Social Security Disability Benefits that you deserve or working with you to prepare a Special Needs Trust, Will, Living Will, Health Care Power of Attorney, or Financial Power of Attorney; Stephen Guillette can help. >> Learn more
Landlord-Tenant Law.
Landlord and Tenants, often opposed.
If you rent real property, as a landlord or a tenant, you know that questions about your rights can lead to landlord-tenant disputes and even litigation. In addition to governing state and federal law which generally regulates commercial real estate, many local municipalities are enacting their own specific, unique rent and eviction control ordinances. Guillette & Associates, P.C. have the specialized knowledge and can efficiently and effectively assist their clients in navigating the seas of rent and evictions controls.
Landlord - tenant matters can present extremely important and sensitive concerns. Landlords need to protect their investments, making sure that tenants don't diminish the value of their real estate. On the other hand, tenants wish to live in habitable, safe and adequately maintained apartments. Because of the involvement of such highly personal issues, landlords and tenants oftentimes cannot resolve their issues without an attorney, no matter how hard they try.
Tenant Issues
Tenants may sue because the owner has not made necessary repairs or similar breach of habitability claims; has retaliated against them in some manner for exercising their legitimate rights as tenants; has charged an illegal rent increase; has improperly implemented an eviction notice (a very common problem); or has attempted a wrongful eviction. Our lawyers help tenants bring wrongful eviction claims when the former tenant believes the owner acted in bad faith in order to get tenants to move out.
People may also sue landlords for rental discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or family size. Economic discrimination is allowable to determine who has the ability to pay rent, but the source of income is not a legitimate basis for excluding an applicant.
Landlord Issues
Complications to owner-move-in situations are a common legal dispute that we are asked to handle. An owner may spend $800,000 to buy a home, but the property is not truly in possession until the tenants have moved out. Eviction law is murky and complex and must be followed to the letter. Our attorneys work with owners to ensure that they follow the law so they can use their property without unnecessary disputes.
Sometimes an existing tenant won't move out. We assist owners to press their eviction / unlawful retainer case in court. Our landlord-tenant dispute attorneys also prosecute cases for breach of lease or recovery of rent, as well as nuisance matters. We represent landlords and owners who are being sued by a tenant for any of the reasons given above.
Commercial Leases
Our real estate lawyers can prepare your lease or rental agreement, review one that you may already be using, and make sure that your rights as the landlord or the tenant are being protected. "Use" clauses, options to renew, subleases and assignments are areas that often generate confusion and dispute. We can analyze your situation and concerns, and provide you with a clear understanding of your options. Our services are designed to help you prevent landlord-tenant disputes from arising and to help resolve such disputes if they do arise.
Residential Rental Agreements
From habitable premises to discrimination in housing, we resolve landlord-tenant disputes and provide reliable, knowledgeable advice to landlords and property managers who have questions about their rights and obligations. We can prepare a comprehensive and thorough lease agreement which is custom-tailored to the laws of the specific municipality at issue, and which is specifically designed to address and prevent typical rent problems.
Rent & Eviction Control Law
As a landlord, you need to be aware of the laws that apply to you concerning your obligations to your tenants, your duty to provide a habitable living space, as well as statutes governing the eviction of tenants. Guillette and Associates, P.C. provides landlords expert services related to:
- Lease preparation
- Security deposit
- Lead paint disclosure
Guillette and Associates, P.C. ensures landlords are covered quickly and effectively to deal with tenants regarding such issues as:
- Breach of residential lease
- Nonpayment of rent
- Constructive eviction
- Issuing a notice to quit
- Constable service of the eviction papers
