An old English proverb states that "A man's home is his castle."  However, in the urban and suburban neighborhoods in which most of us live, we have neighbors, but lack motes or high walls to avoid neighbor problems.  Problems like barking dogs, untrimmed tree branches that extend over the property line which drop debris, tree roots that raise concrete, loud parties, fence disputes, building encroachments over the property line, easements disputes over shared walkways or driveways, and harassing behavior can destroy the peaceful enjoyment and use of our homes.  These issues can particularly be a problem in condominiums and apartment complexes or in properties governed by homeowners associations. Other conduct by neighbors can cause property damage to the homeowners' property, or personal injuries for which a homeowner could become liable.  Failure to take appropriate action can even result in the loss of property rights through doctrines like prescriptive easements and adverse possession.  Neighbor problems can also cause disclosure issues if you sell your home, which could adversely affect your home's value.

Mehlman Law Group provides practical advice, as well as a range of solutions that can be employed in resolving these types of problems.  Steven Mehlman been a regular participant in legal advice programs offered by the Contra Costa Bar Association on neighbor disputes and animal law.  Mehlman Law Group can take a range of steps for clients from writing letters to preserve clients' rights and persuade offending neighbors to change their conduct, to putting together agreements to resolve the problem.  There are also a number of litigation alternatives that can be pursued, including pre-litigation mediation, small claims court actions, proceedings to obtain a civil harassment restraining order, or CLETS injunction, pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure Section 527.6, and superior court litigation seeking damages and injunctive relief.  Mehlman Law Group has successfully litigated cases involving noisy neighbors in multiple unit buildings, driveway and walkway easement disputes, encroachment disputes, and boundary disputes, obtaining favorable judgments for our clients.  Mehlman Law Group also successfully represents clients in disputes with common interest homeowners association boards of directors.  Steven Mehlman is a former city and county planning commissioner, and can also effectively work with planning staff and government counsel, on zoning and permit issues for either the property owner or a neighbor's property.

If you are having difficulties with your neighbors and need experienced counsel, call Mehlman Law Group at 925-935-3575 to arrange a FREE consultation about the best way to restore your quality of life.