Dennis Paul Block

My experience with Dennis Block & Associates involved specific issues that potential clients should be aware of: In February 2025, I retained Dennis Block & Associates for an Ellis Act filing for my property, paying a $17,000 retainer via two ACH transfers ($10,000 and $7,000). After two months, n...o substantive work was completed on my case - only a few emails requesting basic documents were exchanged. When I needed to pause the process to address a REAP issue with my building and requested a refund, I encountered several concerning issues: The retainer agreement was never countersigned by the firm, which appears to violate California Business & Professions Code § 6148 requiring mutual execution of fee agreements over $1,000. The agreement contained contradictory language: one section stated "Client has the right to a refund of any amount of the fee that has not been earned in the event the representation is terminated," while another claimed the fee was "not refundable." When I requested a refund, Block's office refused to return the unearned portion of my retainer, offering only $1,000 for costs. When I cited the legal requirement for signed agreements, I received an email stating my request was "in bad faith" and suggesting legal action against me if I pursued the matter. Despite my requests, I never received an itemized accounting showing how $16,000 worth of services could have been performed when no actual work was completed on my Ellis Act filing. I have since filed a complaint with the California State Bar regarding these issues. I recommend that potential clients carefully review and retain copies of all agreements, ensure they are properly executed, and clarify refund policies in writing before making payments.