popal@firmfortenants.com
Our founder, Rahman Popal, believes access to adequate housing is a human right. He is a zealous advocate who has dedicated his legal career to representing the underserved, marginalized, and less powerful.
Rahman’s dedication and skill in the legal field have been recognized time and again. He was honored as a Northern California Rising Star Attorney by Super Lawyers in the years 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. This accolade isn’t just handed out lightly; it’s reserved for those who excel in their practice. To put it into perspective, only 2.5% of Northern California attorneys receive this prestigious recognition. Rahman’s consistent acknowledgment speaks volumes about his commitment to excellence and his standing among his peers in the legal community.
Rahman is deeply committed to ensuring fair treatment for tenants across California who find themselves grappling with unjust housing practices. His expertise covers a wide range of issues, from wrongful evictions and inhabitable living conditions plagued by water leaks and mold to landlord harassment, illegal lockouts, retaliatory actions, and discriminatory practices in housing. Rahman’s advocacy extends to addressing live/work unit concerns and combating illegal rent hikes, among other pertinent topics.
Having provided guidance and representation to numerous tenants navigating intricate legal hurdles, Rahman’s experience is extensive and impactful. Prior to establishing The Law Firm For Tenant Rights, Inc. he honed his skills over five years as an associate attorney at a distinguished tenant rights firm in San Francisco.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Rahman remains actively involved as a devoted volunteer with local tenant unions throughout the Bay Area. His unwavering dedication underscores his passion for safeguarding tenants’ rights and fostering equitable living conditions for all.
Since 2015, he has also served as an adjunct professor with the University of San Francisco’s Moot Court Program.
Samantha Quinn (she/her) is a Legal Administrative Assistant who has been with the firm since October 2022. She is currently completing her paralegal certificate. Samantha received a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and has multiple years of social work experience, including in the housing context, where she worked to develop and implement innovative Mental Health and Homeless programming in Contra Costa County. Her passions are the great outdoors and exploring National Parks. She is highly inspired by the Bay Area’s art and culture, greatly appreciates her community, and loves sharing with others.
Melissa Gutheim (she/her), has been a Paralegal with the firm since May 2024, bringing a specialization in landlord-tenant law that dates back to 2020. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, where she developed a strong interest in software structures, taking advanced electives in software systems, architecture, and modeling. Prior to focusing on landlord-tenant law, Melissa gained experience in various roles, including as an account manager in technology sales. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, immersing herself in new cultures and languages, playing video games, and listening to music. She is fully trilingual, fluent in Dutch, English, and Spanish.
Rachelle Martinez (She/Her) has been a receptionist at the firm since July 2024. Rachelle, originally from San Mateo, received her education at Hillsdale High School. Before her work at the firm, she worked in various roles, including customer service and working with the community. She found her passion in helping others and advocating for tenants’ rights. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with family outdoors and going to science museums.
Justine Magowan (she/her) is an Associate Attorney at the firm with a J.D. from UC Law, San Francisco, Class of 2024. As a law student, she served as Executive Articles Editor for the UC Law Journal and competed with the Negotiation & Dispute Resolution Team, which she now supports as an alumni coach. Her interest in landlord-tenant disputes began when she participated in the Mediation Clinic, where she mediated such disputes for San Mateo’s Small Claims Court. Prior to law school, she worked at Penguin Random House in New York. Her hobbies include gluten-free baking, cozy gaming, and attempting to find space for her always-expanding home library.
Walker Glenn has been with the firm as Intake Coordinator since November of 2024. As a lifelong California resident, he is passionate about using his own experience and growing insight into tenant issues to help those in need of support. He enjoys playing music, reading, and is currently rewatching the Sopranos for the fifth time. He lives in the Bay Area with his son and dog.
California’s housing market continues to hit historic highs. Landlords are perversely incentivized to harass, issue unjust eviction notices, and otherwise push out long-term and below-market tenants to increase profits. Many tenants are not aware of local and statewide protections that may benefit them. Contact us to learn about your rights so we can help you stay housed. If you’ve already been displaced, we can help you secure a measure of justice.
