Elke & Merchant

I can't thank Alex Merchant enough! He gave me what must have been hundreds (thousands?) of dollars worth of his time and expertise, completely free of charge. I saved countless hours and what will likely total to 5 figures. I went from feeling stressed, frustrated and taken advantage of, to knowing exactly what my options are, what the likely outcomes will be and feeling in control of my situation.nnEven when Alex was out of office for the week, he returned my calls and followed up when he didn't get ahold of me at first. He was a total professional, very knowledgeable and 100% on my side. All the other lawyers I talked to were amateurish in comparison. Thank you Elke & Merchant!

I'll begin with some perspective, I called every attorney on the list I received from the SFTU to approach my issue. I had been working with another attorney from the list of recommendations when I was put in touch with Elke & Merchant LLP. They agreed to see the details of my case (within mere weeks of a statute), approached me with reasonable and ardent skepticism, and then, although properly critical, were continuously supportive and detailed in communication as I prepared in great detail my case to present to them. The guidance I received from Tom and Catalina led to a well sculpted timeline, and frankly facilitated the necessary open dialogue to articulate a real case where one existed. nnElke & Merchant LLP has one of the best reputations of all tenants rights firms in San Francisco. Both partners spend a substantial amount of time not only working on contingency cases, but volunteering directly with the SFTU and other advocacy organizations. Tom and Alex make a particularly well rounded team for a two-partner firm, with complementary specializations, and Catalina is a bright young lawyer dedicated to the cause. Perhaps the most compelling trait is their unwavering authenticity. While many tenants lawyers in SF have been worn down by years of experience dealing with a combination of difficult clients, an unjust system and the woes of evil organizations, attorneys and general systematic incompetence, Elke & Merchant have maintained an impenetrable reputation for treating each tenant they counsel with nothing less than a fiduciary integrity. They will take your case if you do your end of the research, and they will fight for you with their all. Do you work, listen to them, and justice will be served.

Quick, helpful and honest advice.

I first met Tom Elke at the SF Tenants Union clinic in the Mission District. I am a tenant in SF and I was so pleased to meet Tom - an experienced attorney dedicated to the community. His advice at the clinic was a life-saver and gave me the confidence to deal with my apartment issues.nnI work as a social worker and I've met with several tenants' lawyers over the years. Tom stands out as the most qualified, successful, and down-to-earth attorney in SF!nnI had several issues at my apartment that came up later on and I emailed Tom. He responded right away and was available by phone to answer all of my questions.nnI am so happy to be in touch with him, to have such reliable, responsive support on short notice. He clearly explained every complicated tenant law provision that I was dealing with. His attitude is inspiring - he is confident, polite, dedicated, and positive.nnI will definitely return to his office when any future questions arise. I recommend him to anyone in the Bay.n

My wife and I ran into issues with our landlord when they tried to raise our rent above the allowed amount using Costa Hawkins, claiming we did not permanently reside in our apartment because we went on an extended vacation. Tom was quick to respond to our initial inquiry, and the fast responses didn't stop there! Tom is exceptionally knowledgeable with tenant rights and the law. Tom worked with us while we were in South America, walked us through everything, and was always (I mean it) available for us when we needed to talk. Tom quickly gave us the ins and outs of our case, what could be challenges and what steps needed to be taken. Most of all, he delivered! I would (and already have to anyone will listen to me) recommend him and his team to any tenant that needs great representation. He saved our vacation and our home.