“Striving to make positive change where I can.”
Rahman Popal has devoted his life and legal career to a singular mission: securing justice and dignity for those too often silenced or forgotten. As the Founder and Managing Attorney of The Law Firm for Tenant Rights, Inc., Rahman has positioned himself as a leading advocate for tenant protections across California. His work is not just a professional obligation—it is an extension of his deeply held belief that access to safe, equitable housing is a fundamental human right. With a steadfast commitment to the underserved, Rahman’s legal advocacy is driven by empathy, courage, and a profound respect for the communities he serves.
From the earliest days of his legal journey, Rahman has never wavered in his dedication to social equity. His career began with grassroots human rights advocacy, including a fellowship with Johnson & McDermed, LLP and a role as a Frank C. Newman Human Rights Intern at the University of San Francisco. These formative experiences shaped his understanding of justice not as an abstract concept, but as a lived necessity—something that must be pursued daily, vigorously, and without compromise.
Rahman’s rise in the legal profession is marked by a consistent focus on public interest law. After earning his Juris Doctor from the University of San Francisco School of Law, he joined Mira Law Group in Oakland, where he sharpened his litigation skills and expanded his expertise in immigration and housing rights. His legal acumen and unwavering advocacy soon led him to Tobener Ravenscroft LLP, one of San Francisco’s most recognized tenant law firms, where he served as an associate attorney for nearly five years. There, Rahman solidified his reputation as a fearless litigator and trusted counselor for individuals facing unlawful evictions, landlord abuse, and discriminatory practices.
In 2021, Rahman took a bold step forward by founding The Law Firm for Tenant Rights, Inc., a practice built entirely around protecting tenants from exploitation and injustice. The firm quickly distinguished itself for its high standards, its holistic approach to client care, and its unwavering pursuit of accountability for landlords who engage in illegal or unethical conduct. From live/work unit disputes to mold and water damage claims, from retaliatory eviction defenses to challenging predatory rent hikes, Rahman’s firm handles complex and emotionally charged cases with precision and compassion.
Recognized by Super Lawyers as a Northern California Rising Star Attorney for four consecutive years (2020–2023), Rahman stands in the top 2.5% of legal professionals in the region—a distinction earned through peer recognition and professional excellence. Yet for Rahman, accolades are secondary to impact. His greatest reward lies in securing justice for those whose voices might otherwise go unheard. Whether it’s shielding a family from wrongful displacement or forcing a negligent landlord to address uninhabitable conditions, Rahman’s legal victories are deeply human victories.
Beyond the courtroom, Rahman extends his leadership through academia and community service. Since 2015, he has served as an adjunct professor for the University of San Francisco’s Moot Court Program, where he mentors emerging legal minds and cultivates a deep appreciation for advocacy rooted in ethics and service. He is also an active volunteer with local tenant unions across the Bay Area, donating his time and expertise to build stronger, more resilient communities.
Rahman’s impact transcends borders. His advocacy work has taken him to Geneva and India, reflecting his interest in international law and human rights. His early research and interventions on topics like electronic waste and global housing inequities laid the groundwork for a career that merges local action with global awareness. Fluent in Farsi and Dari, and possessing a nuanced understanding of cross-cultural legal systems, Rahman brings a rare international fluency to his practice and partnerships.
In addition to his litigation and policy work, Rahman is a thought leader whose publications have appeared in Plaintiff’s Magazine and the Daily Journal. His articles—on topics ranging from trebling personal-injury damages in premises liability cases to establishing bad-faith landlord harassment—demonstrate a mastery of legal theory and a commitment to equipping fellow attorneys with effective tools. These contributions not only bolster his industry credibility but help raise the bar for the entire legal field.
Rahman’s influence extends into professional organizations as well. He is a proud member of the California Lawyers Association, San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association, SF and LA Tenant Bars, and several regional bar associations. He previously served on the board of the Asia Society Young Professional Group, demonstrating his long-standing commitment to leadership, inclusion, and civic engagement.
When he’s not in court or the classroom, Rahman is a lover of film, literature, hiking, travel, and world cuisine—pursuits that reflect his curiosity, creativity, and deep appreciation for the human experience. These passions, paired with his professional rigor, ground him in empathy and keep him connected to the people and causes he champions. His personal mission is simple yet profound: to be a force for good wherever and whenever possible.
Character:
Rahman exemplifies unwavering integrity and empathy in every aspect of his professional life. His legal career is a testament to his deep-rooted belief in justice, dignity, and the importance of standing up for those without a voice.
Knowledge:
With over a decade of hands-on legal experience and a strong academic foundation, Rahman is a subject matter expert in tenant rights and housing law. His teaching, writing, and litigation record reflect a robust command of complex legal frameworks and real-world application.
Strategic:
Rahman approaches every case and opportunity with a sharp analytical mind and a strategic lens. Whether founding his own firm or mentoring future lawyers, he balances long-term vision with tactical execution to drive meaningful results.
Communication:
A compelling speaker, seasoned writer, and tireless advocate, Rahman communicates with clarity, conviction, and care. His ability to distill complex legal issues into relatable narratives makes him a trusted advisor, teacher, and thought leader.
