Receivership is a court-ordered remedy that puts a disputed asset—be it real property or a troubled business—under the control of a third-party neutral receiver. When applied strategically, the receivership remedy can be very effective. Our team has been able to solve a wide range of complex cases that required creativity, compliance, and community-minded leadership.
From unsafe hotels to inactive churches and blighted shopping centers, here are four projects that show how receivership can support public safety, restore value, and move stalled properties forward.
A Church in Financial Dispute
A Southern California church faced internal allegations of mismanaged donations, neglected records, and disputed leadership. Without proper oversight, the organization had no clear way to stabilize operations or protect its remaining assets. The court appointed the Griswold Receivership team to step in and take control of the church’s financial affairs while respecting its religious functions.
Our team brought structure to the situation by restoring financial documentation, facilitating effective communication between opposing parties, and preserving church property. By exhibiting empathy and springing creative problem solving into action, this receivership helped resolve a deeply personal dispute while maintaining community continuity.
Desert Hot Springs Hotel Shut Down for Health and Safety Concerns
In Desert Hot Springs, the Hyundae Resort & Spa had deteriorated into a serious public health threat. The site was plagued by unsanitary conditions, illegal occupancy, and safety violations, including exposed electrical wiring and sewage backups. Occupants lived in dangerous conditions, and the local government exhausted its enforcement tools.
The Griswold Receivership team was appointed and immediately went to work securing the property, providing financial assistance for occupants to relocate tenants, and coordinating an extensive cleanup. This was a project that required a dedicated focus on collaboration with multiple parties and out-of-the-box thinking to address the overwhelming health and safety violations plaguing the property. Our team worked closely with public agencies to enforce compliance and eventually facilitated a sale to a responsible buyer who was committed to long-term improvement. Our receiver and receivership remedy brought a swift and lasting resolution to a property that had long harmed the surrounding community.
Industrial Complex in Banning Brought Under Control
In Banning, a 9-acre industrial complex with six unfinished buildings had become a magnet for illegal dumping, vandalism, and public complaints. The new owner initially expressed plans to complete the development but failed to meet legal requirements. The city requested a health and safety receiver to gain control of the site.
Our team secured the property, developed a rehabilitation plan, and removed hazardous structures. Despite the owner’s attempt to circumvent the process by way of a bankruptcy filing, we obtained court permission to move forward with demolition. Once cleared, the land was ready for responsible redevelopment. This case showed how the receivership remedy can eliminate liabilities and help local governments resolve unsafe conditions that private owners can’t or won’t address.
Revitalizing a Neglected Shopping Center in Lemon Grove
A long-abandoned retail center in Lemon Grove had become a health and safety concern after years of neglect. Our team was appointed by the San Diego County Superior Court to take control of the retail center pursuant to a public nuisance injunction. The property had been occupied by an illegal dispensary and dozens of trespassers who were a significant and imminent threat to the neighborhood. Our team coordinated with the Sheriff's Department to immediately clear the site, resulting in several arrests from outstanding warrants, and re-secured the buildings with perimeter fencing and 24/7 security.
We oversaw hazardous material removal, demolition of illegal interior additions, and stabilized the site. The property was sold to a qualified developer, with the receivership remaining active to supervise the planned redevelopment. This was an example of quick action, collaboration, and creative thinking to quickly and safely solve a long-standing problem.
Receivers and Receivership as a Practical Solution for Complex Property Issues
This powerful remedy has many uses, including protecting public health and returning community spaces to safe and productive use. The Griswold Receiverships team brings extensive experience in nontraditional appointments that require flexibility, legal knowledge, creative problem solving, and a relentless desire to deliver permanent solutions.
If you're facing a complicated property or organizational issue that calls for independent oversight, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn how the receivership remedy can offer a practical path forward.
