Ari Rief, Esq.

Trial Attorney

Education

J.D., University of San Diego School of Law

B.A., History, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

​

Tenant & Consumer Civil Litigation Attorney

Prior to Rief Legal, P.C., I served as trial counsel at two civil litigation firms: most recently, a landlord-tenant law firm specializing in tenants' rights cases (habitability defects, harassment by landlords, and wrongful or constructive eviction); and, years priors, a consumer protection firm specializing in breach of warranty (lemon law) and automobile fraud cases. Interestingly, I find that tenant and consumer law share similar case dynamics and legal analysis.  ​

​

Former Felony Prosecutor & Criminal Defense Trial Attorney

I practiced criminal law well over a decade. I started my career as a prosecutor (in multiple District Attorney's Offices) and, later, opened my own criminal defense office. I was in the courtroom almost daily, negotiated hundreds of cases a year, handled murder, multi-million-dollar embezzlement, and other complex cases. I prevailed in dozens of jury trials, gaining a valuable skillset in the courtroom and in front of juries. Although my primary practice now is civil litigation, I still occasionally accept criminal cases given my background. ​

​

Small Law Office Model

Large firms generally pass cases off to associates who often lack the trial experience and courtroom credibility that you believe you're paying for. Not here. You will meet with me, and I will handle your trial myself (if your case goes to trial). Also, rather than expanding my office to meet the growing demand of new cases, I purposely limit how many new cases I accept to preserve my small office model and ensure my availability in each case.​

​

Statewide Cases

Although I am based in the San Francisco Bay Area, I accept civil cases across California. Most court appearances, depositions, and mediations are now handled remotely in civil litigation. However, if an in-person appearance outside the Bay Area is necessary in your case (a jury trial, for example), then I will travel to your location.

​

Flexible Meeting Options

Meetings in-person, by phone, and by virtual platforms (e.g., Zoom) are all available to accommodate your schedule.