Wallace, Richardson, Sontag & Le, LLP - Irvine, CA
Wallace, Richardson, Sontag and Le, LLP is an AV Preeminent rated real estate and landlord defense law firm headquartered in Irvine, California, representing property owners, commercial landlords, property managers, and lenders in eviction litigation, regulatory compliance, and business disputes.
Premier Real Estate and Landlord-Tenant Defense Across California
Founded in 1986, Wallace, Richardson, Sontag and Le, LLP is a premier California resource for property owners, residential landlords, commercial managers, and lending institutions. Headquartered at 16520 Bake Parkway in Irvine, with regional offices in San Diego and Corona, the firm delivers commanding advocacy in state and federal courts as well as administrative agencies. Holding Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating, the firm is recognized for legal excellence and an uncompromising focus on protecting property rights.
Led by senior partners including Earl Robert Wallace, Dess K. Richardson, Richard S. Sontag, and Kim Thao T. Le, the practice features attorneys who dedicate their careers to real estate and landlord-tenant defense. With active memberships in key industry associations, including the California Apartment Association and the National Apartment Association, the firm team provides clients with an unparalleled depth of insight into both market realities and rapidly evolving municipal, state, and federal property regulations.
Eviction Litigation and Unlawful Detainer Defense
Resolving landlord-tenant disputes efficiently is paramount to preserving rental income and asset value. When property owners need an attorney to navigate contentious tenant conflicts, Wallace, Richardson, Sontag and Le, LLP provides immediate courtroom representation. Having litigated thousands of unlawful detainer actions, partner Richard S. Sontag and the firm litigation team are recognized leaders in eviction advocacy, including landmark reported appellate victories such as Gans v. Smull.
The firm core eviction litigation capabilities cover:
- Unlawful detainer lawsuits for non-payment of rent, lease violations, unauthorized subletting, or nuisance activities.
- Post-foreclosure evictions on behalf of secured creditors, asset purchasers, and real estate owned property managers.
- Defense against tenant lawsuits alleging breach of the warranty of habitability, constructive eviction, and property damage.
- Negotiation of cash-for-keys agreements, structured buyouts, and favorable out-of-court settlements.
California Rent Control Compliance and Fair Housing Defense
California property management is regulated by an intricate web of state mandates, including the Tenant Protection Act, alongside stringent local rent control and just cause eviction ordinances in major cities. Wallace, Richardson, Sontag and Le, LLP counsels clients on strict procedural compliance to avoid catastrophic delays and statutory penalties. Partner Kim Thao T. Le, an experienced litigator and licensed California real estate broker, spearheads defense matters involving fair housing complaints, alleged discrimination, and retaliation claims before state agencies and federal courts.
Commercial Real Estate and Contract Drafting Services
In addition to aggressive trial defense, the firm proactively shields clients through precise transactional work. The legal team reviews, drafts, and negotiates standard residential rental contracts, commercial real estate leases, property management agreements, and statutory tenant disclosures. By identifying ambiguities early, counsel helps clients prevent misunderstandings from escalating into protracted breach of contract claims or title disputes.
Employer Defense and Employment Litigation
Because property management companies and landlords regularly employ on-site staff, leasing agents, and maintenance crews, employment disputes frequently arise. Wallace, Richardson, Sontag and Le, LLP defends employers against allegations of wrongful termination, wage and hour violations, and workplace discrimination, ensuring operations remain compliant with California labor laws.
Whether you require urgent counsel for a contested eviction, need to defend a habitability claim, or wish to hire a real estate attorney to restructure your leasing policies, Wallace, Richardson, Sontag and Le, LLP offers the trial experience and strategic advice necessary to protect your real estate investments. Schedule a consultation at the Irvine office today to secure responsive, result-driven legal representation.
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Location & Access
Primary Address
Located in the highly sought-after Irvine Spectrum area (also known as the Irvine Health and Science Complex neighborhood) in Irvine, California.
Building Location
This is a two-story Class-B commercial office condo building located inside the premier Bacchus Office Park. The office park is situated right where Bake Parkway and Irvine Center Drive meet, directly across from the Los Olivos Community Park.
Parking Details
The office park offers ample, hassle-free free surface parking on-site with an exceptional 6:1,000 parking ratio, allowing clients and visitors to park in any open spot without a validation or permit.
Public Transit
Served by Orange County Transportation Authority Route 90 (Dana Point Harbor); nearest stop is at Irvine Center-Bake.
Accessibility / Suite Access
Enter through the main double-door entrance of building 16520. Proceed to the second floor via the stairs or elevator to locate the firm in Suite 280.