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Abandoned Hawthorne Plaza Mall Court-Ordered to Achieve Compliance and Safety
Civica Law Wins Landmark Court Orders to Reclaim and Revitalize Abandoned Hawthorne Plaza Mall.
Once a local landmark and now a long-time eyesore, the abandoned Hawthorne Plaza Mall has finally met its match. After years of blight and community frustration, The Los Angeles Superior Court has issued powerful orders that will hold the Plaza Mall’s owners accountable—and bring long-overdue relief to residents.
Civica Law secured a massive summary judgment declaring the property a public nuisance and obtained permanent injunctions requiring immediate action to make the site safe. The court’s orders demand that the owners stabilize the Plaza Mall, clean up unsafe conditions, and either redevelop or demolish the site by August 31, 2026—no extensions, no excuses.
To ensure accountability, the court appointed a neutral Los Angeles-based developer to oversee compliance, explore redevelopment options, and make sure the owners meet every court-imposed deadline.
Civica Law Partner, Valerie Escalante Troesh and Attorney, Grace LeBlanc represented the City of Hawthorne in the case, proving that the deteriorating Plaza Mall posed serious health, safety, and quality-of-life risks to the surrounding community.
- Installation of security lighting and cameras
- On-site nighttime security personnel
- Removal of trash, debris, and waste
- New fencing to secure the property
The court also ordered environmental and structural assessments for lead, asbestos, and other hazards—key steps in determining whether any part of the Plaza Mall can safely be reused in redevelopment.
The ultimate win? A hard deadline for change. By August 2026, the owners must either break ground on redevelopment or begin demolition. After decades of inaction, the community finally has a path forward—and a court ensuring it happens.
“The community now has a voice. After decades of neglect, we’re honored to help secure this lasting change that will transform 25 acres of downtown Hawthorne from blight into a thriving center that serves its residents”
Civica Law has extensive expertise in providing municipal law services and public agency legal support. Their team of code enforcement attorneys, abatement legal counsel, and drone law and regulation experts work closely with public agencies to address the challenges posed by vacant and abandoned buildings.
The court also ruled that the City of Hawthorne, as the prevailing party, is entitled to recover its enforcement and compliance costs from the property owners.
This case is a milestone for local government accountability and community safety. By enforcing compliance, ensuring environmental review, and setting a firm redevelopment timeline, the court’s decision paves the way for real transformation.
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Legal Disclaimer: This blog provides updates and insight on current municipal legislation and is not intended as legal advice. For specific legal advice related to hoarding house compliance assistance or any other municipal law issues, please contact Civica Law directly.
