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A common problem we see across the region is a city’s frustration with commercial nuisance properties. When left in a neglected state, these substandard properties pose a risk to communities because of lingering or worsening hazardous conditions. They also become hotbeds for crime, attracting squatters and illegal activity that compromises feelings of safety and security. Health & Safety Code § 17920.3 “Any building or portion thereof, regardless of zoning designation or approved uses of the building, including any dwelling unit, guestroom or suite of rooms, or the premises on which the same is located, in which there exists any of the following listed conditions to an extent that endangers the life, limb, health, property, safety, or welfare of the occupants of the building, nearby residents, or the public shall be deemed and hereby is declared to be a substandard building…” Link to

At Griswold Law, we value a comprehensive approach to managing distressed hospitality assets, ensuring safety and value are at the forefront. Through our involvement in cases throughout the region, we’ve demonstrated our commitment to navigating complex hotel receivership situations effectively, embracing challenges to solve problems previously deemed unsolvable.

When it comes to California contract law, ABC contracts are a well-established tool that can help individuals and entities avoid a formal bankruptcy filing. “ABC” stands for “Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors,” and the term describes a contract in which an economically troubled “Assignor” transfers control of its assets and property to an independent third party. This third party is called the “Assignee,” and they liquidate and wind-up the entity.

Abandoned properties present unique challenges and dilemmas, particularly when these buildings have missing or deceased owners. The complex interplay of real estate laws, probate procedures, and responsible party identification often leaves municipalities and stakeholders grappling with how to manage these situations. This blog aims to unravel the intricacies of abandoned property receivership, focusing on the issues that arise from the absence of responsible parties.

Receivership may be one of few viable options for struggling cannabis companies facing upcoming debt obligations, according to a recent article in JD Supra that references information published in October by Green Market Report. Publicly traded multi-state cannabis operators are facing a looming debt of $1.83 billion due by 2026, which may suggest even larger debts for private cannabis companies. This situation raises concerns that insolvencies within the cannabis industry could rise significantly in 2025 and 2026 unless these companies effectively manage their debts and secure funding.

Navigating the complexities of distressed properties can be a formidable task for municipalities. Griswold Law has been at the forefront of tackling these challenges in California, effectively collaborating with municipalities to restore order and safety to communities. We’ll delve into three notable cases that highlight significant hurdles encountered by Code Enforcement and how Griswold Law provided vital support in overcoming them.

What is It? California Senate Bill 1465 amends the State Housing Law with important additions and clarifications surrounding how substandard housing is addressed in our state. It redefines what constitutes a substandard building to create a safer housing landscape, expands criteria for code enforcement inspections, and imposes restrictions on when an enforcement agency can take legal action. It also broadens the scope of relocation allowances for tenants displaced from substandard buildings, allows for the expansion of receivership jurisdiction in necessary circumstances, and ensures accountability and compliance from new owners who purchase a property with existing violations, citations, and notices. Here’s a closer look at the critical aspects of this bill:

Navigating the complexities of hoarder properties requires more than just technical expertise; it demands a deep sense of empathy and a collaborative approach. For city officials, attorneys, court-appointed receivers, and other professionals engaged in these cases, understanding the underlying issues and offering compassionate support can make a significant difference in resolving these challenging situations. Here’s why empathy is crucial, particularly for California court-appointed receivers, and how to effectively work with hoarder properties.