Contracts are a part of almost every business transaction. Whether you are working with customers, suppliers, independent contractors or partners, a well-drafted contract helps to establish expectations and reduce the risk of conflicts. California has specific laws...
Goode | Hemme Legal Blog
Hoa disputes when rules become legal issues
Many families choose to live in neighborhoods with homeowners associations because they appreciate the shared amenities and community standards. While these communities can offer structure and consistency, disagreements may arise when homeowners and associations...
How ambiguity in business contracts leads to disputes
Some business agreements contain vague language. The vagueness may be obvious (patent ambiguity). For instance, when two clauses contradict each other. Or it may be hidden and only become noticeable when applied in real-life situations (latent ambiguity). For...
What should you do if a business partner stops communicating?
A business partner who suddenly stops responding is stressful to deal with, especially if important decisions, customer relationships or daily operations depend on both of you. While it is tempting to react quickly, taking a careful approach can help protect your...
Can a landlord keep a deposit to make repairs?
When a tenant rents a residential apartment, they usually provide a security deposit. As a landlord, your initial goal for this deposit may simply be to protect yourself if the tenant fails to pay their rent. You already have a certain amount of money on file that you...
Landlord actions that may lead to harassment claims
Landlords have the right to enforce lease terms and protect their property, but those rights have legal limits. Certain conduct intended to pressure a tenant into leaving a rental unit may expose a property owner to liability under California landlord/tenant law....
Does an easement eventually expire under California law?
Easements grant neighbors, local businesses or utility companies access to private property. Easements can make a landlocked parcel accessible or allow one property owner to use resources present on an adjacent parcel, such as sources of surface water. Easements can...
How to deal with a roommate who won’t leave
A roommate who refuses to move out can create stress fast, especially when you share bills, space or a lease. Even if the person is not paying rent, they may still have certain housing rights under landlord/tenant law. That means changing locks, removing belongings...
What should you include in an early lease termination clause?
When drafting a lease contract for your tenants, an important clause to include is terms for early cancellation. Some renters may need to end their lease before their contract is up, and well-defined terms for early cancellations protect the rights of both parties and...
What happens when one side breaks a contract
When agreements are made, both sides usually expect the other to follow through. Whether the contract involves a business deal, construction projects or a service agreement, people often rely on those promises when making important financial decisions. When one side...

