A Resource for Property Owners Seeking Accountability

My Story

As a Los Angeles property owner who has managed over 30 buildings, I recently experienced what appears to be a systematic practice by Dennis Block & Associates. After paying a $17,000 retainer for an Ellis Act filing, the firm performed minimal work over two months. When I terminated the representation to address REAP issues, they refused to refund my retainer despite:

• Never countersigning our agreement (violating CA Business & Professions Code §6148)
• Their own contract promising refunds of unearned fees when representation ends
• Providing no substantial services that could justify keeping $17,000

When I requested my refund, I was met with threats rather than an accounting of services. Since sharing my experience, multiple landlords have contacted me with nearly identical stories.

Resources for Affected Landlords

If You’re a Victim:

1. Document everything related to your case with Dennis Block & Associates
2. Request all communications and your client file in writing
3. File a complaint with the California State Bar: CA Bar Complaint Form
4. File a fee dispute with the mandatory fee arbitration program
5. Contact me to share your story and join potential class action

Legal Resources:

• California State Bar: (800) 843-9053
• Los Angeles County Bar Association Fee Dispute Program: (213) 896-6571
• Small Claims Court (for disputes up to $10,000): LA Court Self Help

Taking Action:

• Submit your complaint to the California State Bar
• File a police report for potential fraud
• Consider a civil lawsuit for breach of contract
• Join our group of affected landlords by contacting me

Join Our Effort

If Dennis Block & Associates has refused to refund your retainer or you’ve experienced similar issues, please contact me:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: (310) 906-5459

We are exploring a potential class action lawsuit and need to document as many cases as possible. Your experience matters, and together we can hold this firm accountable.

Legal Requirements for Attorney Fee Agreements

• California Business & Professions Code § 6148 requires fee agreements over $1,000 to be signed by both client and attorney
• California Rules of Professional Conduct, Rule 1.16(e) requires attorneys to refund unearned fees when representation ends
• Attorneys must provide clients with accounting of fees upon request

Media Coverage

We are actively speaking with journalists about this issue. If you are a reporter interested in covering this story, please contact me directly.