LITIGATION

I represent clients suing private employers and local, state and federal agencies for employment violations including wrongful termination, unfair and inappropriate treatment in their workplaces, failure to pay or provide rest and meal breaks, discrimination, whistle-blowing, family leave, disability or other statutorily protected rights, or contract disputes. I also represent victims of governmental violence, typically in the context of police and police actions.

EMPLOYMENT and DISCRIMINATION LAW

As a long-time employee advocate, starting in 1976 when I was arrested for supporting a worker’s strike, I have always gone out of my way for employees to ensure they are protected and not ripped off. My most recent class victory (2023), for $420,000, was on behalf of almost 4000 workers whose employer had not provided them with reimbursement for using their cell phones at work.

CRIMINAL DEFENSE/CIVIL ASSET FORFEITURE

I represent criminal defendants charged with felonies and misdemeanors in state and federal courts in California and also in other jurisdictions across the country. I also represents claimants whose assets have been seized by government agencies based on the government’s allegations that the asset has been part of, or a product of, a crime.

ADVICE, COUNSEL AND TRANSACTIONAL WORK

After 30 years of practice and helping my clients successfully resolve disputes, and make deals, I’ve learned what it takes to gets good, efficient results - be direct, be transparent, be clear, gather the right data, and keep everyone engaged until the job is done. My clients want their deal, and the knowledge how to figure out a situation - right now - not later. I’ve never been a volume practice guy. I’ve always had a small case load. Even more so at this stage in my career, I can pick and choose my clients and provide a level of concierge service to them that makes the lawyer-client relationship a pleasure for them and me.

Whether its a business deal, a probate or trust matter, a criminal matter, any kind of conflict pretty much spanning A-Z, or maybe you just need to talk to someone who’s been around the block a few times and can set you straight on the law and your position in a matter, you can rely on me to give you clear, easy-to-understand advice. That’s pretty much my sweet spot and why my nickname is “The Professor”. (not to mention that I teach law part-time!)