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Ari Rief, Esq.
 

— Attorney Bio 

I represent California tenants in high-stakes buyout negotiations and lawsuits against landlords who violate state and local tenant protection laws, breach the duties implied in residential leases, and commits acts of fraud or gross negligence. With over a decade of trial experience in criminal courtrooms (first as a prosecutor and then as a defense attorney), I developed a trial lawyer's instinct for spotting case strengths and weaknesses, and understanding how best to advocate in front of judges and juries. Since 2023, I've exclusively handled tenant law statewide (in tenant civil actions against landlords for habitability defects, wrongful evictions, and harassment), and primarily represent tenants in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, and other just-cause eviction cities. My practice is straightforward: to secure fair compensation for my clients, restore dignity, and hold errant landlords and property managers accountable.

My path to tenant advocacy was unconventional. As a former prosecutor at two District Attorney's offices and as a criminal defense attorney who defended complex criminal cases including murder and multi-million-dollar embezzlement, I gained a lot of experience in the courtroom. That background—where diligence, grit, and preparation is everything—shaped my approach to tenant representation. I bring a unique perspective when assessing evidence, anticipating opposition tactics, and presenting compelling narratives to judges and juries.

My strategy is, and always has been, transparency. I identify the one to four critical issues that I believe will determine your case outcome, I don't hide the ball with the opposing side, and zero in on exactly how to win those points at trial. No bluffs, no theatrics—just methodical preparation and clear communication of strengths. This approach consistently produces better case outcomes because opposing counsel knows I'm prepared to try the case.

Looking back, I became a lawyer in the first place to fight predatory practices and fraud. After graduating college (UCLA), I worked at a San Diego-based mortgage brokerage and witnessed first-hand rampant fraudulent business practices, which appalled me and motivated me to pursue a career in law. I then attended University of San Diego School of Law and found my calling in the courtroom—winning three consecutive mock trial tournaments while clerking for the U.S. Attorney and San Diego County District Attorney's Office. As a lawyer, I spent years building a successful Bay Area criminal defense practice, including extensive public defender work in San Mateo County, before shifting my practice focus to tenant protection, which offered a direct path to fighting exploitive practices and aligns well with why I became an attorney in the first place. After serving as Trial Counsel at a prominent San Francisco-based plaintiff tenant rights firm, I reopened my private practice to focus exclusively on tenant law and tenant buyout representation.

I understand that facing eviction or negotiating a buyout can be overwhelming. I work collaboratively with clients to cut through the legal complexity. I show you exactly where you stand, what's achievable, and I develop pragmatic strategies tailored to your specific situation. No false promises—just honest assessments and aggressive representation when it counts.

Contact

Rief Legal, P.C.

1100 Moraga Way, Ste 208

Moraga, CA 94556

877-628-9668 (877-6-BUYOUT)

888-592-1351 (Fax)

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RIEF LEGAL, P.C. © 2026 All Rights Reserved.

Licensed to practice law in California.

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