SUCCESSES
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Don't be fooled by fake Google reviews posted by anonymous "clients" claiming spectacular miracles. I have posted names, court location and case numbers on all my cases, for the world to see.
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ATTEMPTED MURDER WITH PREMEDITATION & DELIBERATION DISMISSED, FOUND NOT GUILTY ON ALL REMAINING COUNTS BY JURY (People v. Barona, 21NF2491)
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(This marks my 8th consecutive Not Guilty Verdict in 2023-2024)
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Client charged with Attempted Murder with Premeditation & Deliberation as well as Assault with a Deadly Weapon & Mayhem. Bail set at $250,0000 and client exposed to 25 years to life. Attempted Murder dismissed at Preliminary Hearing but then reinstated by DA at Arraignment. I then filed a successful 995 motion and permanently dismissed the attempted murder with premeditation & deliberation charge. The matter then proceeded to Jury Trial with a vindictive DA whose only wish was to send client to prison for a very long time on the remaining Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Mayhem charges. Despite horrific photos of victim's injuries, 19 facial stitches and 2 adverse witnesses, client was found NOT GUILTY on all counts after an intense 9-day trial. Victim's credibility was simply demolished beyond repair when he took the stand. It took an immense amount of legal finesse and dancing between the rain drops to convince a jury of 12 to acquit this client despite the horrible facts and gruesome pictures. People v. Alan Barona 21NF2491, Orange County Superior Court, (Verdict 2/8/2024, Dept. C35). DA offer before Trial: 18 years and 2 strikes. Client walked home to his parents.
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ONE COUNT OF ROBBERY AND TWO COUNTS OF ATTEMPTED RAPE (3 STRIKES). NOT GUILTY ON ALL COUNTS
Client was charged with Robbery and 2 counts of Attempted Rape of a complete stranger. This was a 3 strikes case, exposing the client to 25 years to Life. Client's semen being found at the scene from a prior case led to his arrest. In a bizarre twist of fate, caused solely by a slip of the tongue of the alleged victim, I convinced a Jury that the sexual encounter had been consensual and that the alleged robbery did not happen. DA offer before trial: 16 Years State Prison. Client found NOT GUILTY on all counts. 14WF4300, Orange County Superior Court (Verdict 8/25/2015) People v. Jesus Vasquez
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BATTERY with 2 adverse witnesses, PC 242, found NOT GUILTY by Jury
Client charged with Battery. DA was being stubborn and not making a reasonable offer. So, the matter was set for Jury Trial. Client had an extensive criminal past and could not take the witness stand. Even without him testifying, I successfully argued a self-defense case and in what is a record of fastest Not Guilty Verdict reached in Orange County, the Jury returned a Not Guilty Verdict within 13 minutes. People v. Castelan Moran
Case# 22CM07893. Santa Ana Superior Court, Dept. C52, Verdict July 24, 2023
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ASSAULT WITH FORCE LIKELY TO PRODUCE GREAT BODILY INJURY, PC 245(a)(4) & PC 242, Found NOT GUILTY by Jury
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Client charged with Assault with force likely to Produce Great Bodily Injury and Battery
The case involved not only a videotaped full confession by my client but also gruesome photos of the victim's injuries which required multiple stitches. A grueling and relentless cross-examination of the alleged victim revealed that he was not only lying on the stand but had fabricated some facts to the police. Three prior lawyers had advised client to plead guilty and serve jail time. Juror statement after the verdicts: "Based on your arguments, we had no choice but to find your guilty client Not Guilty". People v. Bocanegra Moran 22CM06882, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana. Verdict June 1, 2023
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$1,000,000.00 Settlement where Plaintiff was at fault
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Confidential Per Settlement Agreement
Plaintiff was at fault for an accident that occurred on the 5 Freeway but sustained serious personal injuries. Settlement $1,000,000.00
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$4,000,000.00 Settlement in a Sexual Harassment case
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Confidential Per Settlement Agreement
$4,000,000.00 settlement with weak facts, no witnesses, and no corroboration.
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$500 Award where City of Santa Ana was demanding a whopping $300,000.00 plus over $130,000/yr in expenses.
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Clients were owners of a Motel in Santa Ana and sued by the City for Public Nuisance and Narcotics Abatement. The City was represented by a team of inexperienced lawyers, who named over 20 police officers and an expert to testify against the clients in an 8-day trial. Clients' absolute liability gave the inexperienced City Attorneys misplaced confidence and they demanded over $250,000 in restitution, costs and expenses. Even though the facts, the law and the evidence were heavily against our clients, Steven A. Alexander convincingly and effectively picked their case apart during closing arguments, causing the Judge to issue the City a deliberately insulting award of $100 per defendant for a total of $500.00 (Instead of the $300,000 they were demanding). City of Santa Ana v. Sunland Motel, 30-2020-01164465-CU-MC-CJC, Orange County Superior Court.
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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE WITH A PRIOR (2 counts) by self-entitled Victim, found NOT GUILTY by Jury
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People v. Juan O. Gilrey, 19WM10182, NOT GUILTY VERDICTS ON BOTH COUNTS
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The evidence consisted of gruesome photos of the victim who claimed that client had head-butted her on the nose while fighting over a cellphone. Blood covered her entire shirt and face. Victim, her daughter and police officers all testified against client who also had a prior perjury conviction introduced at trial. Both Judge and DA snickered at our "self-defense theory" as they believed a conviction was all but a foregone conclusion. Victim's credibility was then shredded when I relentlessly cross-examined her for 3 hours. After a full 6 day jury trial conducted during the Covid-19 pandemic, jurors quickly returned NOT GUILTY verdicts on both counts in less than 2 hours. (Verdict 10/13/2021, Dept. W17, West Justice Center)
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CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT, People v. Kona, 21CM10559, NOT GUILTY JURY VERDICT RENDERED IN 35 MINUTES
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The client was charged with Child Abuse. The facts of the case were horrible and a nightmare for any defense attorney: There was a videotape of the incident, the Client had been heavily drinking, had lied to several police officers, and had 4 independent witnesses against him. The case was completely lost until Closing Arguments, when with the use of exhaustive and convincing legal arguments, I surgically took apart the DA's case piece by piece, employing powerful and strategic PowerPoint slides coupled with overwhelmingly convincing arguments the DA could not rebut. The Jury then took only 35 minutes to find the Client Not Guilty. Case # 21CM10559. Verdict 3/21/2022, Santa Ana Superior Court. People v. Kona
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Insurance claim initially Denied by Insurance Company, settled on the eve of trial with the carrier paying the full amount of claim
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National General Insurance had denied their own insured's claim, alleging fraud, misrepresentation, etc. in the purchase of the policy and would not pay him anything for an accident. I filed a lawsuit against National General and after heavy-handed litigation, forced them into paying the full $40,000 claim on the eve of trial. Romero v. National General, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana 9/2023.​
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ATTEMPTED MURDER, SHOOTING AT AN INHABITED DWELLING (DRIVE-BY SHOOTING), FELON IN POSSESSION OF A GUN, ASSAULT WITH A SEMI-AUTOMATIC FIREARM
DISMISSED, 96CF1186, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana, People v. Andrew Moreno
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Client charged with Attempted Murder, Shooting at an Inhabited Dwelling (Drive-by Shooting), Felon in Possession of a Gun, Assault with a Semi-Automatic Firearm $1,000,000.00 Bail, then changed to No Bail
Case Fully DISMISSED, on the day of Jury Trial, DA was offering 15 Years State Prison, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana
Felony DUI, videotaped Felony Hit & Run, driving over victim, causing 8 cracked ribs
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NOT GUILTY. Orange County Superior Court, Fullerton, Case # 14NF4466
Client Charged with Felony DUI, and Felony Hit & Run, cracking 8 ribs on the victim and then fleeing the scene, all videotaped by the McDonald's drive-thru cameras. Found NOT GUILTY on all counts after a brutal 10 day trial. Deputy District Attorney during closing arguments: "Mr. Alexander is a real smart attorney. He knows what he's doing. I mean, he really knows what he's doing". Juror email after trial: "Your client was guilty as hell. We found her not guilty solely based on your lawyering skills". I hired no expert, no lab technician, and no Forensic Scientist but beat the DA with sheer argument, tactics and tenacity. People v. A. Castillo, 14NF4466
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Client was charged with Kidnapping for Rape, Rape, Sexual Penetration, and False Imprisonment with an exposure of Life in Prison
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Case involved a full confession made by the client to detectives. I convinced the DA to make a no jail offer to a misdemeanor sexual battery, which the client gladly accepted. When he walked out of the courthouse that same day, he told me the following: "I didn't think I'd see freedom again". People v. Machadoparada, Orange County Superior Court, Harbor Justice Center, Case# 21HF1714
Attempted Murder, Discharge of Firearm at Vehicle, Assault with Semi-automatic weapon, Felon in possession of firearm
Life Sentence reduced to 3 Years, 07CF2429, Orange County Superior Court, People v. Andrew Morales
Client charged with Attempted Murder, Discharge of Firearm at Vehicle, Assault with Semi-automatic weapon, Felon in possession of firearm. Attempted Murder charge Dismissed, all other counts dismissed. Pursuant to a plea bargain, Client pled guilty to a lesser charge of Aggravated Assault and avoided a Life Sentence, reduced to 3 years. DA was initially offering 14 Years State Prison, 07CF2429, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana. People v. A. Moreno
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Special Circumstances Murder, lying in wait & premeditation and also one Count of Attempted Murder, with Street Gang Enhancements
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Client charged with Special Circumstances Murder, lying in wait & premeditation and also one Count of Attempted Murder, with Street Gang Enhancements, Personal Use of a semi-automatic Firearm, and Conspiracy in a brazen shooting in broad daylight on a busy street, witnessed by 4 separate individuals. Client was facing the Death Penalty. After intense negotiations with the District Attorney's Office, zealous and thorough Investigation of the facts, Death Penalty offer was reduced to only 13 years, minus Client's credits for good behavior. People v. Hector H. Martinez, Orange County Superior Court, case #: 09CF0221
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Special Circumstances Murder with Premeditation and Deliberation, Murder for Profit and Lying in Wait. He faced the Death Penalty. 01CF0449, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana
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Client was under investigation for a Special Circumstances Murder with Premeditation and Deliberation, Murder for Profit and Lying in Wait. He faced the Death Penalty. The case was very weak and relied heavily on flimsy circumstantial evidence and unreliable witnesses, as well as a botched and sloppy forensic investigation. The only scientific evidence against the client was a partial shoe print left at the murder scene. While client hired me during the initial investigation, he later retained another attorney, because he was quoted a lower retainer fee. Client then proceeded to trial with the cheaper attorney who did a terrible job on cross-examining the "shoe print expert", failed to ask highly relevant questions of other witnesses and then presented a weak closing argument. Client was quickly convicted and received a Sentence of Life without Parole. He is serving his life sentence at Calipatria State Prison. The case was completely defensible. People v. Carlos Ceron, 01CF0449, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana
Indecent Exposure, Lewd Act. Found NOT GUILTY by Jury
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04CM05777, People v. Mauricio Perez, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana, Client charged with Indecent Exposure, Lewd Act. Found Not Guilty by Jury, after a 9 day Jury trial, with a full Client confession introduced to the jury and 2 independent witnesses. After a 3 hour cross-examination, the victim finally admitted that she had in fact not seen client's private parts and that her statement had been coerced by the Detective (The Detective was later placed on administrative leave and then forced to retire). DA was initially offering 90 days jail plus lifetime sex-offender registration. Client did no jail at all and paid a $100 administrative fee instead. 04CM05777, People v. Mauricio Perez, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana
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Two (2) Counts of Attempted Murder with Use of a Firearm for the Benefit of a Criminal Street Gang, Great Bodily Injury
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07WF2752, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana
Client was charged in an 8 Count Information alleging Two (2) Counts of Attempted Murder with Use of a Firearm for the Benefit of a Criminal Street Gang, Great Bodily Injury (Victim was shot in the eye and lost an eye, was in a coma for 6 months and never fully recovered), Vehicle Theft and Discharge of Firearm from a Vehicle (Drive-by Shooting). DA's initial offer was "Life without Parole". In the next 51 court appearances that spanned over 5 years, Steve Alexander was able to reduce the "Life Offer" to only 13 years and with credit for time served, he will be released in 4 years. People v. Joshua Ayon, 07WF2752, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana
Underpaid overtime wages, no meal/rest breaks against a local Car Wash. $150,000.00, settled 10 minutes prior to Jury Selection
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2 clients claimed underpaid overtime wages, no meal/rest breaks against a local Car Wash. In response to a letter sent to them, Car Wash owner initially offered $500 per client, denying the hours they worked, and claiming that their illegal work status would bar them from any recovery. The case settled for a total of $150,000.00 10 minutes prior to Jury Selection.
6 year old pedestrian struck by an OCTA bus, and sustained a fractured leg. $100,000.00
Case settled for $100,000.00. In Re EP v. OCTA. Client was a 6 year old pedestrian struck by an OCTA bus, and sustained a fractured leg. The bus driver insisted the client was at fault by darting out in the middle of the street. The 8 year old insisted he was legally in a crosswalk and had "seen the green man" (referring to the pedestrian hand signal) before crossing. There were no other witnesses. OCTA initially offered $1,000.00. After the bus driver's credibility was demolished in a 4-hour grueling Deposition, case settled for $100,000.00. In Re EP v. OCTA.
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Restraining Order with Gun Seizures
Flores v. Rutkiwiecz, July 2020
Client was accused of damaging furniture and punching holes in the walls of his house, where he lived with his wife of 8 years. Wife obtained a Temporary Restraining Order, seeking emergency protection, ordering him to turn in his guns, and stay away from the house. She attached 8 photos of damaged walls, client holding a pistol, as well as a long and detailed summary of his alleged violence. Wife was represented by a local and prominent family law attorney and they both thought victory was all in the bag and it was just a matter of time, as the case dragged on due to COVID-19.
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The matter finally came to trial and after a thorough and relentless cross-examination of the complaining wife, and item-by-item impeachment of her testimony, Judge Scott Cooper denied the Petition, finding "glaring inconsistencies in testimony". Client's rights were fully restored, and his weapons were returned to him the following day.
Sexual Harassment, Underpaid Wages, Emotional Distress, Invasion of Privacy (Restroom Peeping), and Wrongful Termination/Retaliation. $450,000.00
Case Info Confidential pursuant to a Confidentiality Agreement
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Three (3) Clients claimed Sexual Harassment, Underpaid Wages, Emotional Distress, Invasion of Privacy (Restroom Peeping), and Wrongful Termination/Retaliation. During initial negotiations with the defendant corporation, defendant initially offered $2,500.00. The matter was settled 2 weeks later for $450,000.00 when defendant was told that a case would be filed that same day. Case Info Confidential pursuant to a Confidentiality Agreement
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Domestic Violence. DISMISSED
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05NM12821, People v. Rufina Hernandez, Fullerton
Client charged with Domestic Violence. Client had made a full confession to the police who arrived minutes after the incident. DA statement at arraignment: "180 days in jail would be a gift". Case Dismissed. 05NM12821, People v. Rufina Hernandez, Fullerton
Possession and transportation for sale of over 12 pounds of Methamphetamine. 25 Year offer reduced to 4 Months
People v. A. Farias, Riverside Superior Court
Client was charged with Possession and transportation for sale of over 12 pounds of Methamphetamine, possession of over $500,000.00 in cash, suspected of running a Meth Lab and a major drug empire. Client's exposure was 58 years in State Prison. Based on hyper-technical defects discovered by the defense, DA's 25 year offer was reduced to 2 years in prison, which client gladly accepted. Based on time credits, client was released 4 months after the plea. People v. A. Farias, Riverside Superior Court
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Domestic Violence, Battery against co-habitant. Dismissed
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06CM08950, People v. Rudy de la Torre, Orange County Superior Court
Client charged with Domestic Violence, Battery against co-habitant. Case Fully Dismissed 10 minutes before Jury Selection was scheduled to commence. DA had offered 60 days jail and stay-away from his own house, wife & children for 3 years. 06CM08950, People v. Rudy de la Torre, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana, Dept. C53, Judge Barry Michaelson after the Dismissal: "Mr. De la Torre, your attorney has pulled off a miracle for you. Don't mess it up".
Domestic Violence, Battery against spouse, Child Endangerment
07NM02523, Orange County Superior Court
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Client charged with Domestic Violence, Battery against spouse, Child Endangerment
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Found NOT GUILTY by Jury of the serious counts, avoided 60 days Jail and was sentenced to 30 days Community Service after 10 day Jury trial, 07NM02523, Orange County Superior Court, Fullerton
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Terrorist Threats, Residential Burglary, Aggravated Felony Assault, Criminal Street Terrorism, Possession of a firearm
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Confidential due to Client being a Minor
Client charged with Making Terrorist Threats, Residential Burglary, Aggravated Felony Assault, Criminal Street Terrorism, Possession of a firearm. All counts dismissed, instead client pled guilty to Possession of a Firearm and spent 90 days in Juvenile Hall, avoiding 6 years in the California Youth Authority. Confidential due to Client being a Minor
False information to police officer, falsely representing self to police officer
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06NM09774, Orange County Superior Court, Fullerton
Client charged with unlawfully providing false information to police officer, falsely representing self to police officer. Charges Dismissed. DA was recommending 60 days jail. Client did no jail. 06NM09774, Orange County Superior Court, Fullerton.
Sexual Battery after Unlawful Entry to house. Hung Jury (7-5) leads to Full Dismissal, 09NM11638 Fullerton
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Client charged with Sexual Battery after Unlawful Entry to house. Hung Jury (7-5) after an 8 day intense Jury Trial. DA had initially offered him 180 days Jail, 5 years Probation & register for life as a Sex Offender. On cross-examination, the alleged victim's credibility and Police Officer's competence were so destroyed, that the initial City Attorney refused to re-try the case, stating: "I don't want to be humiliated in front of the jury again". The following is an excerpt of what the City Attorney also told the Judge after a 1 hour cross-examination of the Lead Detective by me: "Your Honor, I think Mr. Alexander has effectively destroyed this Detective's credibility and I don't think his image can be repaired before the Jury." Judge: "He's your witness, not mine". Client went home after paying a $100 administrative fee instead. 09NM11638 Fullerton.
Resisting Arrest and Trespassing. DISMISSED
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Full Dismissal 15 minutes prior to Jury Selection. 09CM05789
Client charged with Resisting Arrest and Trespassing. Client had pled guilty with another lawyer and received 10 days jail. Client retained me post-conviction and I set aside the guilty plea and set the matter for trial, obtaining a Full Dismissal 15 minutes prior to Jury Selection. 09CM05789
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Attempted Murder of a Police Officer & Assault with Deadly Weapon on a Police Officer, People v. J.G
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Client was under investigation for Attempted Murder of a Police Officer & Assault with Deadly Weapon on a Police Officer. Upon investigation of the matter by Steve Alexander and a private investigator, it was established that the police officer was the initial aggressor by attempting an unlawful detention of our client after an unauthorized and warrantless entry into his home. We found and convinced extremely reluctant witnesses who had been intimidated by the police to divulge exculpatory statements. After the results were submitted to the District Attorney, the investigation was closed with no charges filed against Client. People v. J.G
Child Endangerment. DISMISSED
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09CM09666, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana
Client charged with Child Endangerment. Social Services were called and client was offered 180 days jail, stay away from her own children for 3 years. I set the matter for trial and through relentless and zealous representation, the entire case was Dismissed. 09CM09666, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana
Cruelty to a Child. DISMISSED
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10CM10640, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana.
Client charged with Cruelty to a Child. The evidence against the client consisted of 8 photographs, bearing 3" wide deep belt buckle marks, welts and lacerations, a confession by the client, and two adverse witnesses. DA offer was 120 days jail. Case Fully Dismissed, 10CM10640, Orange County Superior Court, Santa Ana.
Drug Possession/Transportation for Sale of Narcotics & Conspiracy
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Case Dismissed. 30-2009-00123643-CU-AF-CJC
Client was arrested and while represented by the Public Defender, he pled guilty to Drug Possession/Transportation for Sale of Narcotics & Conspiracy. A search of his vehicle had yielded $28,000.00 in cash. The cash was seized and Asset Forfeiture Proceedings were initiated by the DA. He then hired this office to recover his cash. All $28,000.00 returned to the Client after 1 court appearance and case Dismissed. 30-2009-00123643-CU-AF-CJC
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Possession of Narcotics for Sale
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Confidential, as no case filed
Client was arrested for Possession of Narcotics for Sale and his home worth over $2,000,000.00, a 50' yacht, $250,000 in vehicles and a Harley Davidson and over $400,000.00 in cash were seized as a result. We not only convinced the authorities NOT to file any charges, but all of client's assets were returned to him in less than 30 days. Here's what the assigned DEA Agent told me after he learned of the disposition of the matter: "Hey listen, I've got you on speed dial if I ever get into trouble".
Confidential, as no case filed
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Underpaid for overtime, and not afforded lunch and rest breaks.
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Client was a former employee for a local gas station/mini-mart and had been working 56 hours per week, and being underpaid for overtime, and not afforded lunch and rest breaks. Plaintiff had no documentary evidence, written proof, or corroboration. It was his word against that of over 20 other current employees, managers and corporate officers. Defendants were offering $274 to settle. After an intense 4 day trial, 5 witnesses and a defense expert testifying against the client, and over 6,000 adverse documents presented against client by 2 separate lawyers defending all the defendants, Client was awarded $40,000.00 plus costs and attorney's fees, for a total of over $90,000.00. After the verdict, one of the defendants was overheard saying: "We didn't just lose the case. This f***** crucified us".
Underpaid for wages and overtime. $133,000.00
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Client was a former employee of a garment store and was being underpaid for wages and overtime. After suit was filed, defendants retained a local fancy and well-known law firm, which offered $2,500 to settle the matter. The matter went to trial, with defendants being represented by 3 separate lawyers, a full support staff of 3 other professionals, as well as a forensic CPA. While the defendants and their lawyers were seen laughing and snickering on the first day of trial, their laughter soon dissipated when Client was awarded $133,000.00 plus $185,000 in attorney's fees.
Unpaid Overtime. $75,000.00
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Case settled for $75,000.00 on the eve of trial
Client was a gas station employee, not being paid overtime. Defendants were being represented by another famous high-powered Orange County law firm, which offered $5,000 to "go away". After depositions were taken on the 14th floor of their fancy building by arrogant lawyers sipping on Cappuccino and quipping about the client's case, the matter settled for $75,000.00 on the eve of trial
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Unpaid Overtime. $65,000.00
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Case settled for $65,000.00 on the very morning of Jury Trial. J.Perez v. S.F. Orange County Superior Court
Client worked 75 hours per week at a local mini-market, and not paid for overtime. While Defendants had promised "our high-powered corporate lawyers will eat you alive" and then laughed at a $25,000 settlement demand extended 9 months before trial, they were very anxious to settle the case for $65,000.00 on the very morning of Jury Trial. J.Perez v. S.F. Orange County Superior Court, Dept. C23, Judge Moss
Underpaid wages, Sexual Harassment and Oppressive Working conditions. $160,000.00
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Case Info Confidential pursuant to Confidentiality Agreement
Clients were 4 Exotic Dancers at a local Strip Club and claimed Underpaid wages, Sexual Harassment and Oppressive Working conditions. While we were first told to "go file whatever case you wanna file, you won't get a penny from us", their joint matters later settled for $160,000.00. Case Info Confidential pursuant to Confidentiality Agreement
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Domestic Violence. 6 TO 6 HUNG JURY LEADS TO DISMISSAL
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People v. Malfavon, 11CM00089, Orange County Superior Court
Client was charged with Domestic Violence. Two of client's children testified against him, convincingly stating that they had eyewitnessed the event and that their father had guzzled ½ a Tequila bottle prior to striking their mother. DA's unwaivering offer was 120 days jail, 52 weeks of alcohol and DV program, stay away from the house and children for 3 years. The case went to trial and a self-assured DA presented a total of 4 witnesses and 2 police officers, all testifying against the client. The client took the stand in his own defense, admitted to heavy drinking and prior incidents of domestic violence but claimed self-defense. After 6 hours of deliberation, the Jury was hung 9-3 in favor of Acquittal (Not Guilty). Case was then Dismissed by the Judge after he said: "I don't think you have a prayer in proving up this case to another Jury. I'll save you and the County thousands of dollars by dismissing it now". After the dismissal, one of the jurors intimated the following to Steve Alexander: "Listen, if I ever get into trouble, I'm hiring you, there's no doubt". People v. Malfavon, 11CM00089, Orange County Superior Court
Possession of Narcotics for Sale
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Client wasted 180 days of his life due to incompetent representation.
Client was charged with Possession of Narcotics for Sale, after his house was raided by DEA Agents. After the first appearance and receipt of the Police Reports, it was discovered that the Search Warrant had technical defects which would render it invalid, and the seizure illegal. The following week, Client hired another lawyer ("because he was cheaper"), and the Client pled Guilty and received a 180-day jail sentence. When the subsequent Attorney was seen in the courthouse a few weeks later, and asked about the validity of the Search Warrant, his response was: "Wow, that just blew right by me, I didn't even see that". Client wasted 180 days of his life due to incompetent representation.
Possession of over 400 Fighting Roosters
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No jail time, payment of $100 in fines and a promise not to own any fighting roosters for one year. San Diego Superior Court
Client charged with Possession of over 400 Fighting Roosters, fighting paraphernalia, trophies, hormones, razorblades, videotaped cock fights, etc. While the client was potentially facing 400 separate felony counts for the alleged misconduct, I was able to negotiate a plea wherein client pled guilty to one sole Misdemeanor count, with no jail time, payment of $100 in fines and a promise not to own any fighting roosters for one year.
Murder, Drive-by Shooting & Possession of an Assault Rifle, Gang-related Crimes
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Client avoided a life sentence. Confidential, no case filed.
Client was being investigated for a Murder, Drive-by Shooting & Possession of an Assault Rifle, Gang-related Crimes, after being positively identified as the Shooter. Although client had admitted to the police that he was an active gang member and on Parole, he had denied involvement in the shooting. Although he claimed he was in a different part of town at the time of the shooting, client had no alibi, no favorable witnesses and no hope. He was also wanted on a No Bail Parole Hold and therefore a fugitive on the run, but claimed to be innocent. I retained experienced investigators to scour the area where client claimed to have been and they found no exculpatory evidence and/or alibis. I then personally visited the area at 2 a.m. and from a remote distance, located an apartment security camera which could have captured client's presence in the area, and therefore act as an alibi. I obtained the security tape which clearly showed client driving alone in his vehicle, and 9 miles away at the time of the shooting. When a copy of the tape was provided to the Detectives, they were never heard from again, and did not return several phone calls and messages. The Parole Hold was also lifted. Client avoided a life sentence. Confidential, no case filed.
Probation Violation for being in possession of a shotgun and ammunition. DISMISSED. Probation Violation was dismissed. Client was sent home. People v. Cesar Ayala, 10CF1565
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Client was charged with Probation Violation for being in possession of a shotgun and ammunition, and faced a minimum of 4 years in State Prison, and held in custody without Bail. Once the shoddy, incompetent and improper police tactics were brought to the District Attorney's attention, Probation Violation was dismissed. Client was sent home. People v. Cesar Ayala, 10CF1565
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False Imprisonment & Battery Against Cohabitant. DISMISSED
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People v. M. Miranda, 11CM06117, Santa Ana.
Client charged with False Imprisonment & Battery Against Cohabitant, arising out of a boyfriend/girlfriend relationship. DA offer 180 days jail, 3 years probation, 52 Weeks of Anger Management, do not possess any weapons for 10 years. A guilty plea to any law violation would have forever shattered client's dreams of becoming a Police Officer. I personally scoured the neighborhood, in search of favorable eyewitnesses, speaking with the homeless, pimps and street prostitutes, leaving no stone unturned, eventually finding enough exculpatory evidence to get the case DISMISSED. People v. M. Miranda, 11CM06117, Santa Ana.
12 year old boy, suffered a black eye as he was punched by a schoolyard bully
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Large settlement, placed in a blocked account for when he turns 18. In Re N. (a minor). Client, a 12 year old boy, suffered a black eye as he was punched by a schoolyard bully. I sued the bully and his parents and was able to obtain our Client a large settlement, placed in a blocked account for when he turns 18. In Re N. (a minor).
Hit & Run with Property Damage. DISMISSED
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11CM14271, People v. Ramirez de Castillo, Santa Ana
Client charged with Hit & Run with Property Damage, and running a red light, arising out of a serious auto accident, with 3 witnesses testifying against client. Case Dismissed. 11CM14271, People v. Ramirez de Castillo, Santa Ana.
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Battery on a Police Officer (PC 243(b)) & Resisting Arrest (PC 69).
Serious charge NOT GUILTY, client paid a fine.
People v. Jorge Garibay 11CM10201, Santa Ana Superior Court
Client charged with Battery on a Police Officer (PC 243(b)) & Resisting Arrest (PC 69), arising out of client allegedly hitting a pedestrian police officer with his truck, fleeing, and then resisting arrest when detained by officers who chased him. Client was guilty of the Resisting Arrest Charge, and although I attempted to negotiate a plea to the charge and a dismissal of the Battery charge, the DA steadfastly refused and insisted on 60 days Jail, fines and 3 years of Probation. The matter proceeded to Jury Trial. Verdict: NOT GUILTY of Battery on police officer after Jury Trial. The Judge was so upset at the DA for not accepting my pre-trial compromise that, after trial, the judge sentenced him to only pay $100 in fines. People v. Jorge Garibay11CM10201, Santa Ana Superior Court.
Undocumented Farm workers in the agricultural outskirts of Fresno, forced to work 12 hour shifts for $5.00 per hour. Matter settled for $200,000.00, just 3 days later. Case Confidential per Confidentiality Agreement.
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Clients were 5 undocumented Farm workers in the agricultural outskirts of Fresno, forced to work 12-hour shifts for $5.00 per hour, picking vegetables under 105-degree temperature, with no restroom breaks. They had no documentary proof or corroboration. We contacted the employer who in turn threatened to contact his son-in-law, a Homeland Security Officer, to have clients deported. Employer was told that we were unimpressed with his silly threats, and when we sent him an unfiled copy of a Fresno Superior Court lawsuit, the matter settled for $200,000.00, just 3 days later. Case Confidential per Confidentiality Agreement.
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Client's Insurance claim for a stolen Cadillac Escalade had been "Denied" by Infinity Insurance
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$58,000.00 settlement check was hand-delivered to the office in 48 hours
Client's Insurance claim for a stolen Cadillac Escalade had been "Denied" by Infinity Insurance, as they were in their 9th month of "investigating" the claim. The vehicle had been recovered in Tijuana and Infinity Insurance claimed that client had had a hand in its disappearance, yet offered no insight, evidence or final determination to client. 3 hours after a letter of representation was faxed to the carrier, a $58,000.00 settlement check was hand-delivered to the office.
Forgery (PC 470(a)), Forgery of Governmental Seal (PC 472) & Manufacturing of False Governmental Documents (PC 113)
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People v. Nahed Gonzalez, 11CF2963, Santa Ana.
Client was charged with 3 felonies: Forgery (PC 470(a)), Forgery of Governmental Seal (PC 472) & Manufacturing of False Governmental Documents (PC 113), arising out an elaborate sting and surveillance, involving ICE officials, Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, Orange County District Attorney's office and Santa Ana Police. Client was caught with numerous computers, scanners, printers and over 1,000 fake green cards. Client's minimum Prison exposure was 5 years and $75,000.00 in fines. ICE and DHS officials had placed the DA under extreme pressure and scrutiny to make certain client is sent to State Prison for the 5-year term. When the DA was threatened with a Motion to Exclude Evidence due to improper seizure of the items in his house, the DA quickly made a 180-day offer, allowing the client to be released from custody that same day. Client did 85 days jail, and only because he refused to post bail. People v. Nahed Gonzalez, 11CF2963, Santa Ana.
Felony Domestic Violence, Great Bodily Injury (Strike), 8 stitches and lacerations on victim. HUNG JURY leads to FULL DISMISSAL
DA dismissed the entire case. People v. McCullough, 10HF2038, Orange County Superior Court
Client charged with Felony Domestic Violence with a Great Bodily Injury Enhancement (Strike Felony). The evidence consisted of a large and horrific gash on the victim's chin which required 7 stitches, a pool of blood, horrific photos, and 4 police officers and a victim testifying against him. Client was also involved in 2 prior incidents of domestic violence with the same victim, one of which had led to a prior arrest. DA offer before trial: 180-270 days in Jail, plead guilty to a felony, hefty fines and 3 years of Formal Probation. Case went to trial and the DA presented 5 adverse witnesses, showed blowup photos of victim injuries and argued what she believed to be a "slam dunk victory". On cross-examination, Victim's credibility was so destroyed by Steve Alexander that Jurors intimated the following after trial: "You did a great job on your cross-examination of her. We just couldn't believe anything she said anymore. She just wasn't credible at the end". Result: Hung Jury (6-6). On retrial, the same DA dismissed the entire case. People v. McCullough, 10HF2038, Orange County Superior Court
Felony Domestic Violence, Assault with a Firearm, Kidnapping, Witness Intimidation/Tampering, Destruction of Evidence and Child Abuse. DISMISSED
DA moved to "Dismiss in the Interest of Justice". Client released from custody. People v. A.P. San Bernardino Superior Court
Client charged with Felony Domestic Violence, Assault with a Firearm, Kidnapping, Witness Intimidation/Tampering, Destruction of Evidence and Child Abuse. The evidence consisted of two separate recorded 911 calls by two separate witnesses, a tacit confession by client, a loaded .45 semi-automatic, and a pool of blood. DA offer at Arraignment was 14 years State Prison. Client would have been glad to accept a 5 year offer. DA arrogantly rejected our 3 year counter-offer and we prepared for an intensive Jury Trial. Result: Case Fully Dismissed 30 minutes prior to Jury Selection, as the DA moved to "Dismiss in the Interest of Justice". Client released from custody. People v. A.P. San Bernardino Superior Court
Road Rage and Assault with a Deadly Weapon (vehicle), Hit & Run with Serious Injuries
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Client's Insurance Company paid for the vehicle damages. People v. J.M.
Client was being investigated for Road Rage and Assault with a Deadly Weapon (vehicle), Hit & Run with Injuries. The evidence consisted of irrefutable iPhone video taken by another motorist. We fully resolved the matter with the Fresno District Attorney's Office with no case ever filed. Client's Insurance Company paid for the vehicle damages. People v. J.M.
Corporal Injury to a Child (Penal Code 273d(a)) and Child Abuse & Endangerment . DISMISSED
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Client charged with Corporal Injury to a Child (Penal Code 273d(a)) and Child Abuse & Endangerment (Penal Code 273a(b)).
Most defense attorneys are horrified of these cases and most scramble to get a plea deal. DA offer before trial: 60 days Jail, Probation and stay away from victim for 3 years. Case fully Dismissed. People v. Alicia Palacios, Orange County, North Justice Center, 07NM13041
Felon in Possession of a Gun. DISMISSED
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Case Dismissed, People v. Aurelio Morillon
Client charged with being a Felon in Possession of a Gun, and held in custody on a No Bail Parole Hold. Result: Case Dismissed, People v. Aurelio Morillon, 12NF1849, Orange County Superior, North Justice Center.
Client was a Registered Dental Assistant working at Smile Implant Center in Newport Beach, and not being paid overtime.
Defendant Dr. Thomas Teich adamantly insisted that client was an Independent Contractor and not entitled to overtime, but offered $2,500.00 to settle. Before trial, plaintiff offered to settle the case for a total of $25,000.00 but the doctor arrogantly refused. Although at trial, they played every trick in the book, Judgment was awarded in favor of the client in the amount of $31,662.00, plus costs and attorney fees, to exceed $70,000.00 total. He did not pay the Judgment, so I had his dental license suspended. Jose Gomar v. Thomas Teich, Smile Implant Center, 30-2011-00461624-CU-OE-CJC, Orange County Superior Court, Dept. C19, Hon. Judge Margines
Kidnapping, Robbery with a sawed-off shotgun, Assault with Deadly Weapon, Dissuading a Witness, Weapon Enhancements. DISMISSED
People v. Justin C. Gonzalez, 08WF0360, Orange County Superior
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Client and 4 other defendants were charged in an 8 count Felony Complaint with Kidnapping, Robbery with a sawed-off shotgun, Assault with Deadly Weapon, Dissuading a Witness, Weapon Enhancements in Case # 08WF0360. The arrest and horrific Al Capone style facts about the arrest were documented by the Orange County Register, LA Times, and other local magazines. While the DA thought they had the perfect case, the case started falling apart piece by piece, month by month. When the matter was finally set for Jury Trial and all parties answered "Ready", DA moved to dismiss the Complaint and all defendants were freed and all charges were Dismissed. People v. Justin C. Gonzalez, 08WF0360, Orange County Superior.
Gardener claiming Unpaid Wages. $11,000 Case turns into a $365,000.00 Nightmare from Hell. Dominguez v. KJS, Kerry J. Snyder, et.al., 30-2012-00611672, Orange County Superior Court
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When reasonable people would have settled in a simple case, these mindless fools gambled on an $11,000 case. They offered nothing at the beginning and nothing at a Mandatory Settlement Conference and laughed at the idea of settlement at Mediation. Their inexperience and cocky ignorance landed them in front of a jury with incredible tales which the Jury rejected by awarding plaintiff $13,500.
After Trial, the judge awarded plaintiff an additional $122,000 in attorney fees, for a total of $135,500.00. Did they do the right thing and pay that amount? No, of course not. Instead, they filed appeal after appeal, and lost. Their final appeal was rejected by the 4th District Court of Appeal, the total damage they have inflicted on themselves is now $365,000.00 (10% interest over 6 years and $85,500.00 more in attorneys' fees on the Appeals plus a malicious prosecution action), for a total of $365,000.00; all on an $11,000 case. ​Dominguez v. KJS, Kerry J. Snyder, et.al., 30-2012-00611672, Orange County Superior Court
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$300,000 damage caused by client's negligence settled for $15,000
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Allstate Insurance Companies subsidiary v. Thomas O'Neil
Client was an unlicensed contractor performing Heating and Air Conditioning services at various homes. An unapproved heating unit he installed burned down a house insured by Allstate, causing over $300,000 in damage. After intense negotiations and litigation, I settled the client's $300,000 debt for $15,000, payable in 5 installments over a 1-year period. Other lawyers had recommended bankruptcy despite client's extensive assets.
Two counts of Child Abuse, Injury to Phone Lines and Domestic Violence, DISMISSED
People v. D. Martinez, 16CM00979
Client charged with 2 counts of Child Abuse, Injury to Telephone lines, and Domestic Violence Battery, with $20,000 Bail. DA offer at arraignment: 180 days jail, 3 years probation, Stay Away from family for 3 years and hefty fines. After zealous investigation of the facts, interview of neighbors, we set the matter for trial, and answered "Ready" on the first day. DA then dismissed the case.
Partnership Dissolution
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Daniel Cano v. John Roberto
"Our partnership has ended. Give me $150,000 and $50,000 in equipment back". Our client was sued by a former partner in a demolition business venture. The former partner claimed all kinds of damages, loss of profits, return of property, conversion, fraud and punitive damages. After a 4-day trial, Plaintiff was awarded zero dollars in damages.
Unpaid Wages with an interesting twist
Sotelo v. MNC
Client was working as a manager at a retail store and not being paid overtime. Defendants claimed that not only was client paid, but she was in fact overpaid and they filed a cross-complaint for the alleged overpayment, for fraud and embezzlement. Plaintiff's case had a top value of $25,000. After the first round of Demurrers, discovery exchanges and setting of depositions, defendants were eager to settle the matter for $48,000.00 and dismiss their cross-complaint.
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Payment denied to Dentist for burglary
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MN v. Safeco, no case filed
Client was a highly-skilled Dentist whose office was burglarized and over $100,000 worth of equipment and personal belongings were stolen. When he made a claim with his insurance company for reimbursement, they denied his claim, claiming it was an "inside job" and questioned the burglary. The doctor retained our firm and after a short in-office interview with the client and the attorney for the insurance company, they were eager to issue a check for $115,000.00
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The Unlawful Detainer Case from Hell
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Castro v. Miranda, Case #: 30-2018-0102276-CL-UD-CJC
Client owned a residential property in Santa Ana and hired another attorney to evict a non-paying tenant. The tenant hired Public Law Center and 3 other law firms to defend her, claiming Age/Race Discrimination, Uninhabitability, Retaliation, etc., requested a Jury Trial and demanded over $85,000 in damages and monies. The previous attorney had recommended that landlord actually pay $50,000.00 to oust the tenant. The landlord was terrified and hired me for further representation. I immediately set the case for trial and appeared at the pretrial conference. The tenant appeared, represented by 4 different attorneys from different firms, all armed with Jury Instructions, 38 Motions in Limine, Witness Lists, and 4 separate Statements of the Case. After their motions were denied one after the other, and the proposed Jury Instructions they attempted to lodge were refused by the court, they were anxious to settle the case for $100 and move out in 8 days. Their lead attorney uttered the following: "I've asked around about you and everybody tells me you know your stuff".
Another Unlawful Detainer Case from Hell
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Johnson v. Gomez, Richard, Harbor Justice Center
Our client was a senior citizen homeowner having mistakenly leased her property to a group of thugs and gang members, who would not pay rent, had terrorized the neighborhood, and had sublet the property to at least 10 other individuals. When the client came to us, the tenants were already 2 months behind in rent. When the process server went to serve them with a 3 Day Notice to Pay Rent, he was chased away by armed gang members and pit bulls.
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The matter was set for trial and I appeared in Department H14 of the Harbor Justice Center. 4 gang members appeared to intimidate the landlord. They were ousted in 6 days with a court order.
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