Our Legal Services
At Kesler Law, we focus on protecting property rights and resolving disputes efficiently. We serve landlords, property managers, investors, and real estate professionals throughout all of New Jersey. Our work covers landlord–tenant law, rent control litigation, and commercial leasing negotiations.
We combine legal experience with practical strategies so you can protect your investments and focus on running your business.
Landlord–Tenant Law
Ms. Kesler handles all aspects of landlord-tenant disputes, from routine eviction matters to complex cases involving multiple tenants, habitability claims, and tenant defenses. She represents landlords in possession actions, lease enforcement, security deposit disputes, and rent recovery. Her deep familiarity with New Jersey landlord-tenant statutes and court procedures allows her to move cases efficiently while protecting her clients’ rights. She also counsels landlords on compliance with notice requirements and fair housing regulations to minimize exposure to litigation.
With rent control laws varying widely from one municipality to another in New Jersey, Ms. Kesler guides landlords through the complexities of local ordinances. She advises on rent increases, registration requirements, hardship applications, and compliance with rent leveling board procedures. When disputes arise, she represents landlords before municipal rent control boards and in court challenges to tenant claims of overcharges or unlawful rent increases. Her in-depth knowledge of these local rules provides clients with an edge in both compliance and defense.
Lease Preparation and Review
- Drafting, negotiating, and reviewing leases for residential, commercial, retail, industrial, and warehouse properties
- Handling specialized agreements such as rooftop antenna leases and commercial brokerage contracts
- Reviewing subleases to protect your property interests
- Structuring agreements to maximize your legal protections and rental income potential
Rent Control and Rent Stabilization
We help property owners navigate New Jersey’s rent control regulations and maximize rental income opportunities:
- Assisting owners when tenants paying below-market rates (such as $500/month for rent-controlled units) vacate properties
- Strategic guidance on legally raising rents to market rates after tenant departure
- Compliance with local rent control ordinances while protecting owner interests
Litigation and Dispute Resolution
We represent landlords and management companies in landlord–tenant court on matters including:
- Non-payment of rent
- Breach of lease terms
- Holdover proceedings
- Post-foreclosure evictions
- Illegal tenant, sublet, and non-primary residence claims
- Ejectment actions
- Security deposit disputes and tenant lawsuits
Security Deposit Expertise
As experts in New Jersey security deposit law, we provide comprehensive representation including:
- Defending landlords when tenants file security deposit lawsuits
- Ensuring proper handling and documentation of security deposits
- Maximizing your ability to retain deposits for legitimate damages
- Compliance with NJ security deposit statutes and deadlines
Notices and Enforcement
- Drafting default notices, notices to cease, and notices to quit
- Pursuing judgments of possession and warrants for removal
- Strategic tenant removal to enable rent increases
Our clients include real estate management companies, investors, community associations, national landlords, and REITs. We work to resolve disputes quickly, but are fully prepared to litigate when necessary.
Ms. Kesler advises landlords in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating commercial leases to protect their long-term interests. She addresses critical issues such as default remedies, maintenance obligations, tenant improvements, and sublease restrictions. By anticipating potential conflicts in the lease language, she helps landlords prevent disputes and maintain steady rental income. She also represents clients in lease renewal negotiations, assignments, and disputes arising from commercial lease agreements, giving landlords strong protection at every stage of the landlord-tenant relationship.
Commercial Leasing Negotiations
Services Include:
- Drafting and negotiating commercial leases tailored to your property type
- Reviewing existing leases for compliance and risk
- Advising on tenant improvement allowances, maintenance obligations, and renewal terms
- Addressing subleasing and assignment clauses
- Handling disputes over lease interpretation and enforcement
- Structuring agreements to minimize risk and maximize long-term profitability
We work with owners of office buildings, retail centers, industrial facilities, and mixed-use developments. Our goal is to structure agreements that minimize risk and support long-term tenant relationships.
Why Clients Choose Kesler Law
Local Expertise
We know the laws, regulations, and property market in New Jersey.
Full-Service Representation
We represent management companies, landlords, and property owners in protecting their rights and resolving disputes across residential and commercial matters.
Experienced Counsel
Lauren Kesler began her legal career with a prestigious clerkship under the Honorable Bruce A. Gaeta J.S.C., Bergen County, Special Civil Part, Landlord Tenant Division.
Security Deposit Mastery
Deep expertise in New Jersey security deposit law and defending landlords against tenant lawsuits.
Get Started
Legal issues involving property move fast. Waiting can increase your costs and risk. Call us today to discuss your situation and next steps.
Serving clients across the entire state of New Jersey.