When selecting an unlawful detainer attorney in the state of California (and specifically in Los Angeles) be careful who you chose.  There are many unlawful detainer “mills”.  These firms provide a very low price for their services, but they never pay attention to your case.  I frequently litigate against these firms and finds that the attorneys that show up to court are generally unprepared and have not prepared their clients. 

This unlawful detainer mills can be good if there is no opposing party, but you can not always count on the other side not showing up to court.  As a result, if the matter becomes contested, the unlawful detainer mill attorney is generally not prepared.  Often times, they first review your case on the morning of your trial.

My suggestion, whether you are the landlord or the tenant, is to hire someone who will give your case the attention it deserves.  Unlawful detainers are won and lost on techincalities and knowledge of the intricate details of the case.  In other words, hire an attorney who cares, not one that views you as a number in their business plan/profit scheme.

posted by Zachary D. Schorr, Schorr Law, A Professional Corporation.   www.schorr-law.com.