New Jersey landlord attorney for evictions and tenant issues
Legal help for landlords who need fast results
At Erik Mueller Law, we represent landlords, property owners, and small investors across Monmouth County and surrounding areas. New Jersey’s landlord–tenant laws are strict and detailed, and one mistake can delay an eviction for months. Our office focuses on helping landlords follow proper notice procedures, file correctly, and appear in court prepared.
We handle matters in Freehold’s Special Civil Part and throughout the state, ensuring your case is managed efficiently. Whether you own a single rental in Freehold or several properties in Howell, you’ll receive personal attention and prompt updates.
For clients who need help after recovering possession, our
small business legal services page outlines how we handle collections for unpaid rent.
What we handle for landlords
New Jersey limits the reasons a tenant can be evicted. Our office prepares the correct notices, files complaints, and represents landlords in court for:
Non-payment of rent cases
Lease violations or property damage
Habitual late payment
Unauthorized occupants or pets
Owner-occupancy or sale-related terminations
Each cause requires specific steps and notice wording. We make sure your documents comply with the New Jersey Anti-Eviction Act and local court rules, whether you’re in Monmouth, Middlesex, or Ocean County.
If your rental property is in Freehold or Marlboro, we can often file your case in the nearby Freehold courthouse for convenience. For property owners managing multiple units, read New Jersey residential real estate law services for help with acquisitions and closings.
Working with investors and property managers
Erik Mueller Law represents small landlords and investors who want a responsive attorney they can reach directly. We also assist property managers who need consistent legal support for multiple tenants. The firm prepares leases, reviews renewal agreements, and ensures compliance with New Jersey’s notice requirements for rent increases and evictions.
We coordinate closely with local constables and court staff in Freehold, ensuring cases move through the docket as quickly as the law allows.
Common questions about landlord–tenant law in NJ
How long does it take to evict a tenant in New Jersey?
If a tenant fails to pay rent and no valid defense is raised, eviction can take four to eight weeks depending on the court’s schedule. Other causes, such as rule violations, can take longer because they require prior notices to cease or quit.
Can landlords handle eviction without a lawyer?
Landlords who own property individually may represent themselves, but LLCs and corporations must use an attorney. Even for individuals, hiring a lawyer ensures notices and filings meet strict court standards, which prevents costly delays.
What are valid reasons to evict a tenant?
New Jersey law allows eviction for specific “just causes” only—such as non-payment, lease violations, or property damage. Arbitrary or retaliatory evictions are prohibited. We help landlords determine if their reason qualifies before filing.
Can I recover unpaid rent after eviction?
Yes. Once a judgment is entered, our office can pursue collection through wage garnishment or bank levy. See small business legal services for more information on our collections work.
Talk to a Metairie Workers' Compensation Lawyer Today
If your job caused your injury, you shouldn't be left to deal with the consequences alone. Our firm has helped countless injured workers stand up to employers, insurers, and anyone else standing in the way of fair benefits. Call now to talk about your options.
Our practice areas.
We approach every legal matter with a broad perspective and a sharp focus, integrating insights across our practice areas to deliver unparalleled results for our clients.
"Stephen is an asset to our company. He skillfully reviews and negotiates multimillion-dollar contracts, he artfully drafts subcontracts and leases, and he has successfully represented us in court and before municipal boards. He is an accomplished lawyer that is always there when we need him. He is our confidant and friend."
Furino & Sons Inc. (Brothers Four)
"It is truly our pleasure to recommend Stephen to any individual or corporation looking for highly skilled legal counsel. He has represented us on a variety of corporate legal matters and he is a master with both contract and lease negotiations, always offering exceptional strategic advice. More recently, he represented us in front of the Township Planning Board and helped us achieve our desired results when it seemed impossible. We highly endorse Stephen both personally and professionally."
HEC Holding Co., LLC
"Stephen has successfully represented our company’s interests in several matters involving intricate fact patterns and novel legal theories. In one, a particularly aggressive plaintiff was convinced by Stephen to voluntarily dismiss a lawsuit in which it sought significant monetary damages. These favorable outcomes have resulted from Stephen’s thorough and careful review of all facts and circumstances and his dedication to the best interests of his client. In every matter in which we have retained Stephen he has sought to obtain the best possible result in the shortest possible time. We recommend Stephen without reservation."
RPM Development Group
What sets your approach apart?
Our attorneys combine academic rigor, industry leadership, and a deep understanding of complex legal landscapes to deliver strategies uniquely tailored to each client.
How do you handle intricate legal challenges?
We thrive on complexity, leveraging decades of experience to uncover solutions others might miss. Every case is approached with precision, diligence, and creativity.
What kind of communication can clients expect?
We prioritize direct and consistent communication, offering clear updates and actionable insights throughout the legal process, so you remain confident and informed.
How do you approach long-term legal partnerships?
We build enduring relationships by aligning with our clients’ long-term objectives, acting as trusted advisors who guide and support through every phase of their ventures.
What can I expect during my consultation?
Your initial consultation will involve an in-depth discussion of your goals and challenges, allowing our attorneys to outline tailored strategies and next steps. See below for a typical process cadence.