LITIGATION

In my core practice I generally represent employees suing private employers (and local, state and federal agencies and departments) 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 or governmental wrongdoing, typically in the context of police and police actions but also in free speech matters. In my role as “of counsel” for Ad Astra Law Group (https://www.astralegal.com), I handle a broader array of cases and clients..

EMPLOYMENT, CIVIL RIGHTS AND ANTI-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, victims of discrimination, and governmental violence. 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 also represent criminal defendants charged with felonies and misdemeanors in state and federal courts in California and also in other jurisdictions across the country. More recently, I have added a new focus to my criminal defense work, defending those with intellectual or mental disabilities, co-counseling with Elizabeth Kelley, the nation’s leading authority on defending this group. (https://www.elizabethkelleylaw.com). I also represent 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 more than 30 years of practice helping my clients successfully (and often quickly!!) 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, or their matter, resolved quickly, and to their liking. I know 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.

I like to assess a situation quickly then give you my 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!)