Elke & Merchant LLP—San Francisco Tenant Lawyers

Billy Rosser

I called Alex Merchant after visiting the SF Tenants Union on Capp St. They pointed me to Alex and told me that he wouldn’t take advantage of me or my situation. He helped with me a buy out/eviction that has lasted over 5 years. He gave me the confidence I needed to know that I was not in the wrong, the law was on my side. I knew this was true the first time my landlord found out I had even spoken with a lawyer. His tone changed drastically when he find out I had been informed of my rights. I would recommend anyone dealing with an eviction or buyout to speak to Alex. Don’t be bullied into thinking you don’t have the choice. The choice is yours.

Graham Klemme

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. Elke & 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.

Ryan Kunkel

We first met Tom at the SF Tenant's Union. He was, as he does weekly, volunteering his time to counsel potential clients like me and my wife. We had been wrongfully evicted from our rent controlled apartment in San Francisco and were lost, confused, and eager to find help. After a brief consultation, Tom assured us that we had a strong case, had been victims of several illegal acts, and he and his partner, Alex, would take on our case. After months of frustration, anger, and degradation from our prior landlord, we walked out of that meeting with Tom feeling like we finally had hope. Diligent & passionate about their expertise, Tom & Alex exuded confidence while keeping expectations level set. At a point where we were on the brink of losing hope, they came in driven to seek justice for us and would not rest until a fair settlement was reached. We recommend Tom Elke & Alex Merchant for any legal matters related to tenant law with the highest regard.

Joe Sciarrillo

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. I 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! I 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. I 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. I will definitely return to his office when any future questions arise. I recommend him to anyone in the Bay.