We recently took over managing our own properties after a few years of poor mismanagement. During the process of our audits, we found a few long term tenants who were behind on multiple months of rent and were able to settle with all but one. I'm looking for a recommendation for a lawyer who can help us settle this last remaining tenant's outstanding rent debt.
In terms of the accounting, previous deposits, emails with the previous manager, all grievances and their associated rental discounts has been audited, accounted for, and documented. We've shared this information with the tenant, clearly outlined amount they owe and what that number is composed of, and provided all related documents, and a deadline for payment. However, the tenant has replied that they will not be paying. To clarify, since taking over management, the tenant has been up to date on rent payment, this is months of back rent owed from prior years.
I'm looking for a lawyer who can send a formal demand letter and then serve a complaint, if necessary. Because the accounting and documentation is completely and transparent, this should be a fairly straightforward case and I'm interested in a flat-fee proposal as opposed to an hourly bill rate.
That said, we need to reassemble our own team and I am looking to use this as an opportunity for us to build a relationship with an individual or firm that we can continue to work with going forward.
Do you have recommendations of a lawyer in upstate NY who is well versed in landlord/tenant laws and offers competitive rates?
