Alumni Success

As a Westside farmer, Gabriel had seen the impact of water law issues. He hoped to use a legal education to help farmers on those issues. In law school, he completed an externship with Magistrate Sheila K. Oberto at the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California. In January of 2014, immediately after passing the bar exam, Gabriel joined the Linneman Law firm. He does transactional work for private clients and public agencies and serves as general counsel for multiple water agencies. Linneman Law has offices in Dos Palos, Los Banos, and Merced. He finds the work challenging, but gratifying as he continues to work with people he knows from farming. Of law school, he remembers the relationships he formed with both classmates and professors, some of which continue today.

Currently Angela is an Associate Attorney at Littler Mendelson, P.C., the largest global boutique labor and employment law firm. Angela is adding to her employment practice by advising businesses how to best comply with employment laws and regulations. Angela began working in employment class action litigation while clerking at Wagner Jones Kopfman & Artenian. As an Associate Attorney there, she was quickly pressed into service representing class members at hearings and depositions throughout California. Angela has handled more than 300 depositions and questioned all witnesses in over 100 post-trial damage-phase hearings on behalf of client escrow officers and managers. Angela played a key role on the trial team in two successful class action trials, preparing and putting on numerous witnesses in a successful 52-day court trial in Fresno, and in a month-long jury trial in federal court in San Francisco that resulted in the firm’s $73 million judgment against Walmart. Angela married last summer and relocated to the Bay Area. She is thrilled to be working in Littler’s San Jose office working with a variety of employers, helping them grow their business by handling their employment law needs.

Jason was always told he should be a lawyer. During his military service, there were times when he researched and utilized military regulations and procedures to defend himself and others against supervisors’ abuse of discretion. “I thought, maybe I can do this law thing!” During law school, he clerked with Leah Tuisavalalo and Mark Miller. Upon entering the Bar, he worked briefly with Kahn, Soares & Conway, doing mainly family law matters. Then with the Fresno County Public Defender’s Office, he found his passion in criminal law. In August of 2019, he joined the Caine Law Firm doing the entire panoply of criminal defense. Jason recently obtained a defense verdict in a seven-day vehicle manslaughter trial of which he says, “This was a terrible accident that happened to two good people.” As to law school, “I remember the comradery. We all connected and worked together and now I work with many of them as an attorney. It’s amazing to see everyone working as what we all aspired to be.”

Sherrie always wanted to go to law school, but life first sent her to Carnegie Mellon University where she earned a degree in mechanical engineering. After practicing mechanical engineering for many years, she ultimately did enroll at SJCL. She clerked one summer for Baker Manock & Jensen, and then worked as an associate there for five years doing litigation in employment, intellectual property, insurance defense, and general business fields. Sherrie passed the Patent Bar in 2008 and really wanted to focus on intellectual property. She moved to the Law Offices of Andrew Fortney where she engaged in patent practice for three years. Sherrie joined Coleman & Horowitt, LLP six years ago. As a partner, her practice is now almost entirely intellectual property, obtaining patent, trademark and copyright protection for her clients as well as litigating infringement matters. “Law school was fun! I wanted to learn. I appreciated that many of the professors were actively practicing in the subjects they taught.”

Jarrett admired his father, Phillip Cline, saw how seriously he took his job, and wanted to do the same. In law school, he clerked with Bourdette & Partners in Visalia on plaintiff personal injury and criminal defense cases and with Myers & Mayfield, doing insurance defense. With that diverse background and wanting trial experience, he joined the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, where he has remained. He has worked everything from agricultural crimes to home invasions, now doing major narcotics and asset forfeiture cases. “My study group in law school of Joe Arnold, Kim Madayag, Darin Powell, and Steve Koch camped out in a classroom and went over and over Joe’s flashcards.”

As a young man, Jody was encouraged by friends, family, and his 8th grade teacher to go to law school. While there, he studied hard with his brother Gary Winter, externed with the Fifth District Court of Appeal, and clerked with Gilmore, Wood, Vinnard & Magness, quickly learning he gravitated towards litigation. After the bar exam, he became an Associate with the firm. Jody practiced civil litigation, doing business and real property related cases, with fellow SJCL alumni Scott Jones. In January of 2012, Jody opened Lloyd Winter, P.C. where he has continued to practice in those areas, and is now joined by two other attorneys, including another fellow alum, Sean Fredin. Jody remembers law school as a whirlwind of information coming at you like a fire hose. “I feel very blessed, and I use what I learned in Contracts, Torts, Remedies, Civ Pro, and Real Property, every day.”

Charlotte clerked for Bob Cassio, Roger Litman, and Sal Sciandra during law school as well as being a mediator in the SJCL Family Mediation Clinic. In practice, she worked for Marderosian, Runyon, Cercone & Lehman for five years doing insurance defense personal injury litigation. Thereafter, she worked as a Deputy City Attorney prosecuting cases for various departments, but primarily for the Code Enforcement Unit and Police Department. Later she was with Zurich North America, handling construction defect cases. Charlotte then worked for a period with Erickson, Arbuthnot, and has been with Yempuku, Wetters & McNamara for the last 4 ½ years, doing Workers’ Compensation defense and civil litigation. As to law school, she remembers being a stressed single mom and working full-time, but still served on the Student Bar Association Board that initiated the Golf Tournament and “Race Judicata”, and fondly recalls time spent with her study partners.

John had always admired his grandfather who was a respected attorney. After being out of college a few years, John was ready to jump in. During law school, John initially clerked at Laughlin, Falbo, Levy & Moresi. During school he also worked for nearly two years at Nuttall & Coleman before eventually returning to Laughlin, Falbo to begin his bar study preparation. John’s practice is primarily insurance defense in Workers’ Compensation cases. He has a fast-paced, litigious caseload with a typical week including 4-5 hearings or trials. John’s first child was born right before his Real Property class final. His wife wisely waited to tell him she was pregnant with their second child until 10 minutes after he learned he had passed the bar exam. John remembers the great times in law school with his study group – Charlie Hamamjian, Michael Titus, and Jordan Penner.

Nick’s father is a lawyer and had a tremendous influence on his decision to go to Law School. Nick clerked for Georgeson and Bellardinelli and Myers & Overstreet during law school. Nick joined Myers & Overstreet as an Associate upon passing the bar. In 2002, Nick opened Zinkin & Bruce with classmate Danny Bruce (’01). Since 2008, Nick has operated as in-house counsel for family owned businesses focusing on real estate and business transactions, along with entertainment law for his brother’s Sports Agency/ Entertainment Company. “I remember studying my butt off in law school. I really did enjoy it, but it required a lot of sacrifices and hard work. And I love what I do now.” Nick serves as a member of the Board of Trustees of San Joaquin College of Law.

When Jason took a Criminal Law class at California State University, Fresno, the professor told him he should go to law school. He followed Ernie Kinney’s advice. Jason has a 25-year history working with Warren Paboojian. In college, Jason worked as a runner for Marderosian, Oren & Paboojian, became a law clerk there during law school. Shortly after graduating from SJCL, Warren opened his own practice, eventually to become Baradat & Paboojian, Jason went with him. In January of 2011, Jason became a partner with Baradat & Paboojian. Their practice is exclusively major plaintiff personal injury and related cases. “I had fun in high school and college. SJCL gave me an opportunity I might not otherwise have had. I was impressed by the quality of the professors and the practical knowledge I gained in addition to the law.”

Alexia became an attorney because she saw how the law helped people all around her growing up. Her law practice focuses on the areas of employment law, family law, personal injury and workers compensation, but immigration law in particular serves her long held desire to help empower non-citizens with fair treatment.

Serita was completing the Paralegal Program at SJCL when she was approached by Jan Pearson who encouraged her to consider law school. Serita decided that would lead to a great future for her and her daughter. Through evening law school, Serita worked full-time and raised a small child. It was difficult to balance, but she persevered through hard work and dedication, carrying her flash cards everywhere she went.
Upon graduation, Serita worked at Barker and Associates for four years. In 2011 she opened her own criminal defense practice and now handles major felonies at the State and Federal level. Serita is extremely proud that her daughter who was a small child then, Lanae Oviedo, is now a second year student in the Three Year Option at SJCL. She, too, seems headed towards practicing criminal defense.

Tony met Bob Perez while taking undergraduate classes from Bob at CSUF. It inspired Tony to head towards law school instead of law enforcement. He began working at Perez, Williams & Medina in 2006, was an Associate for three years after passing the bar and became a partner in 2010. He works in civil litigation, primarily motor vehicle and products liability cases involving catastrophic injury and death actions – “Rewarding to help my clients in times of such great loss and need”. Tony remembers the close relationships with other students and feeling fully supported by the professors. “As a single parent with children working 45 hours a week, I am not sure I would have done as well at any other institution.”

Alex worked as a computer programmer through most of law school. From January to May of 2016, he clerked at McCormick Barstow and again after the bar exam. In November of 2016, he became an Associate in the firm’s litigation group. His practice consists of medical malpractice defense, employment, commercial, and a few family law cases with an emphasis on litigation. He said he has enjoyed every minute of it. Alex’s fondest memory of law school was competing in the Hopper Moot Court competition. Alex and his partner, Chris LeFever, won Best Brief and both were Best Oral Advocate finalists.

Rick was drawn to the legal profession in college because it seemed to fit the way his mind worked. He began his legal career in civil litigation with Emerson, Corey & Barsotti in Fresno. In 2002, Rick was approached by Diana Dooley, then General Counsel, to join Valley Children’s Hospital and direct their legal services as Deputy General Counsel. Rick served in that capacity for 13 years, assuming the role of General Counsel himself in 2006. Rick currently serves as General Counsel for Saint Agnes Medical Center and enjoys practicing in the complex and highly regulated field of health care law. “I have been blessed to work alongside many outstanding local health care leaders and physicians as we strive together to provide the best patient care for our Central Valley.”

At a young age, Josh saw law as a noble profession and a powerful way to impact others’ lives. During law school, Josh was employed full-time, a law student, husband, and father. At the urging of classmate, Jorge Gallegos, Jr., Josh interviewed at Stammer, McKnight, Barnum & Bailey LLP. He began working there as a law clerk in August 2018, and has been an Associate of the firm since his swearing-in on January 31, 2019. He tried a civil insurance defense case about six months later. Josh describes law school as a roller coaster of emotions from “This is great.” to “What am I doing here?” He was impressed by the quality of the teaching including many professors in active practice. “Professor Artenian was superb at teaching Contracts in a conversational manner.”

Marcus handles approximately 30% patent applications and 70% trademark issues, including U.S. and international trademark disputes, often for agriculture-related clients.  “At SJCL, I remember the non-competitive environment.  We were all working towards the same goal.  It was very collegial, more so than I expected.”

“I always wanted to be an attorney since I was a little kid. It was attorney or astronaut.” During law school he clerked for Tom Boyajian in family law. Upon admission to the Bar in December 2008, Ben opened his own office handling family law and contract cases. In December of 2011, he joined State Compensation Insurance Fund as a State Contracts Services attorney defending state agencies (i.e. Cal Fire, CalTrans, Corrections Department, etc). in Workers’ Compensation cases. Ben supervises and supports 10 attorneys, including several other SJCL graduates. “Law school was a lot of fun – knowledgeable people and a lot of friends.”

Lazaro went to law school to help one person at a time rather than trying to take on the world. He clerked for Robert Perez during law school then became an associate at Perez, Williams and Medina upon graduation. In 2007 he opened his own office to emphasize immigration. His office handles 700-750 varied immigration cases a year, as well as 10-20 personal injury cases. “When I help people, it makes a profound change in their lives. Deportation cases, in particular, are difficult but gratifying. You can’t put a price on the emotional payoff for the client and yourself.”

Surrounded by a family of lawyers, having loved government and history classes as an undergraduate, and finding corporate marketing boring, Jeffrey finally entered law school and fell in love with law on day 1. During law school, he clerked with the Days Law Firm, Judge McCabe of the Merced Superior Court, and his brother. In 2017, upon being sworn in, he joined the family practice of estate planning and business transactions. Slowly he branched into criminal law which he found much more interesting. He continued with civil litigation with the firm, along with taking on a criminal law contract with Ciummo and Associates. “I love the theory of the law. The professors at SJCL were fantastic. All the students encouraged each other to be the best that they could be.”

Rachelle wanted to make the world more accessible by pro-actively working with businesses to make every aspect of their operations available to all clients and legally compliant. That is exactly the work she does with the Hatmaker Law Group. Rachelle helps businesses to fix as much as possible immediately and develop strategies to attain full compliance. Immediately after graduation, she first pursued this vision for private entities through consulting work with the Civil Justice Association of California which overlapped with her public entity premises liability cases while working for Overstreet & Associates. Since June of 2018, she has returned to educating and advising in the private sector at Hatmaker Law Group. “At SJCL I felt I was part of a community. At a larger school, I would just have been a number. I would not have had the contacts and opportunities elsewhere to succeed as I have.”

In 1975 during my second year of law school, I worked as a law clerk for the Fresno County District Attorney which allowed me to become “certified” and actually prosecute cases. I also clerked for the homicide team and witnessed how experienced lawyers try cases. When I passed the bar in 1977, passing on a Deputy D.A. position, I opened my own practice. Just me, myself, and I. It was great. I loved every minute, taking any case that walked, crawled, or was dragged into my office. I have now tried to verdict well over 150 cases and one of the largest cases tried in the Valley to a settlement in excess of $70,000,000. I am the first SJCL graduate invited into the American College of Trial Lawyers. The practice still excites me today, taking both plaintiff and defense cases, in both state and federal court. The cases range from environmental, business, corporate, civil rights, employment, medical and entertainment related disputes. I have always been on my own and plan on practicing until I can no longer do it physically and/or mentally. I worked full time during most of law school (1973-1977), supporting my wife and young son. It was a good time for us. I was on a mission and the law school provided me a great opportunity that opened a lot of doors for us. Big thanks to all of those who created the school and continue to guide it today.

Melanie’s mother started her career as a legal secretary in Sacramento, CA. That experience prompted her to encourage Melanie to apply to San Joaquin College of Law. As a Superior Court, Judge O’Neill taught Trial Practice at SJCL. Upon her admission to the bar, when Sam Speake (’87), was limited by vocal surgery, Judge O’Neill suggested Melanie do Sam’s appearances for him in Juvenile Court. She then was hired to handle Dependency and Delinquency conflicts. From 1996 – 2010, the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office hired her to represent minors in the foster care system. When that position was privatized, she continued with the D.A.’s Office handling general felonies, then domestic violence cases. From Fall 2015-2019 she helped develop the Attendance Matters truancy intervention program with the Fresno Unified School District. Currently, her assignment is Workers’ Compensation and In-Home Supportive Services fraud. She enjoyed “jumping over the wall to the donut shop at break and the wonderful sessions with my study group – Jane Woodcock, Gil Fleming, and Wesley Hammond.” She resides locally with her husband, Nick, and their four adult children, across the street from her mom and dad.

Upon graduation, Carol worked with Michele Belanger-McNair doing plaintiff’s personal injury cases, but was encouraged to practice in the criminal defense arena by the Honorable Hollis G. Best who was the US Magistrate in Yosemite and who knew of her many years as a NPS Park Ranger there. In 1999 she opened her own practice doing exclusively criminal defense, first sharing space with Trudi Manfredo and Dorothy Carroll for 12 years, and then on her own. Carol says, “I love working for myself ~ I am the best boss ever.” Carol helps organize Law Day Yosemite each year where four hundred eighth graders from the rural areas surrounding Yosemite come to the Park to learn about the Rule of Law, participate in an essay contest, and enjoy lunch outside in the scenic splendor of Yosemite Valley.

Mike always wanted to go to law school but had not the opportunity nor the right timing. During law school he worked as an EEOC Investigator and decided to continue with that work after graduating and passing the bar exam. In his work, he deals with Title VII, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act every day. He enjoys helping people facing civil rights violations and employment discrimination. “Law school is a blur – working all week then trying to complete the course work on weekends. I made great friendships that last to this day.”

Even as a small child, Jim wanted to be an attorney. He worked as a paralegal in both plaintiff and defendant personal injury litigation firms for 20 years. In October of 2014, he joined the Law Office of Darryl B. Freedman as an Associate where he does exclusively plaintiff personal injury cases. These include automobile accidents, premises liability, sidewalk defect, and an eclectic mix of other cases, even intentional torts. On the walls of his office are pictures of the people he has helped so that he remembers to help one person at a time. Law school was a matter of survival – working, studying, raising four children, and enduring two surgeries. “The opportunity now to work with Steve Cornwell and Rene Sample is extraordinary.”

Sung Bae says that after the 1997 Asian financial crisis, he realized daily lives and business depend upon law. He decided to go to law school to be a necessary person. After finishing his J.D. and a Masters, he returned to South Korea. In order to work as an US licensed attorney, he had to work for an industry with overseas businesses. In 2014, he joined Daewoo Engineering & Construction, handling construction projects in the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. In 2016, he moved to Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction where his work focused on power plants. Currently, he works with Hyundai Engineering & Construction, the largest construction company in South Korea and in the top 15 in the world. He moved to Abu Dhabi, UAE to join a nuclear power plant project, a joint venture of Hyundai and Samsung, building the first nuclear power plant in the Middle East.

Suzanne obtained a BA in Criminology from Ohio State University. Following in her sister’s footsteps, Michelle Oleksa (Law’99), she moved cross-country to attend law school at SJCL. After graduation, she moved to Los Angeles. With clients such as San Bernardino County, CALTRANS, and Frontier Oil, she embarked on a 15-year career focusing on environmental/toxic tort issues in litigation. As time passed, Suzanne became interested in unlawful detainer law and spent a few years protecting the legal interests of landlords/income property owners. Fast forward to the present and change has occurred again. Suzanne recently helped open a law office concentrating on insurance defense. Her next goal is to become a master peacemaker and mediator, resolving human conflict outside the courtroom.

Todd’s father always talked to him about being a lawyer without suggesting that Todd become one. Coupled with his golf scores (he is very good), that pushed him towards law. For more than 15 years after graduation, Todd worked with Emerson, Corey & Barsotti doing insurance defense. He discovered representing the plaintiff seemed attractive because one was actually doing some good for an individual. Todd is a sole practitioner and has been inducted into the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA). He handles employment litigation, primarily for employees. Todd remembers the little old Shields building and having to jump over the brick wall in the parking lot on breaks to go for donuts and coffee in the shopping center next door.

Tim went to law school to help people that would otherwise be taken advantage of by our legal system. Upon passing the bar, he immediately opened his own practice. First, he rented space from Blanco & Tomassian. In 1995, he opened his own office, building out space for himself and Darryl Freedman (’93). His practice has been almost exclusively personal injury, including automobile, dog bite, and construction site cases. Tim says “Law school was very challenging, rewarding and a great beginning to the study of law. I continue to learn and be challenged by the practice of law. San Joaquin College of Law continues to provide me with many opportunities in the legal field.”

Joy’s interest in law began when she volunteered as a Court-Appointed Special Advocate for foster children. She saw that the kids served by this department deserved more good attorneys and enrolled in law school with the sole purpose of becoming a lawyer in the Dependency Unit at the District Attorney’s Office. When, during her last year of law school, the Dependency Unit went from the County to a private firm, Joy joined the Health Team at CCLS. As a former EMT, she had a terrific foundation to build on and she has remained in that department since. Joy says she most enjoys working outside of “Big Law” where a client’s ability to pay has no impact on the assistance she provides. “I can take the knowledge and skills I’ve learned and use them to make a real difference in the lives of people who otherwise would not have any help or representation.”

David knew he wanted a career in criminal justice. Interning at the District Attorney’s Office while in law school cemented his career. In December of 2014 he became a Deputy District Attorney. David has handled misdemeanors, juvenile court cases, and general felonies. He has served on the general trial team and the violent crimes unit. For the last year and a half, his assignment has been the domestic violence unit. David remembers the great friendships he made and the studying sessions for Professors Cartier and Purvis’ classes. Moot Court was one of his favorite classes. “Conklin and Boone in Moot Court taking shots at each other made it really fun.”

Rebekah knew she wanted to further her education and was looking for a career that would enable her to help people. She worked during law school and for three years thereafter as an Associate at the Immigration Law Office in Clovis. She then worked for nearly two years as Minor’s Attorney at Fresno Child Advocates practicing dependency law. She transitioned to a position at the Fresno County Office of the County Counsel representing the Department of Social Services in dependency matters. Recently her assignment has changed to advising the Elections Office and the Grand Jury. “I remember being stressed out in law school, but the students always helped and encouraged each other.”

David had signed a lease for his offices before he even got his bar results. He opened his own practice immediately and has proudly been on his own since then. David specializes in personal injury litigation including medical malpractice, automobile accidents, and assault and battery. He is a Certified Civil Trial Practitioner and a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates. “My life now is the best it’s ever been.”

Cyndee joined the pioneers of the “Me Too Movement” upon her hiring for the newly created role of Ethics and Compliance Officer for the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks. Her focus is on building and maintaining a diverse and inclusive culture. “My personal goal is to educate women that no matter what the job or the industry, they do not – and should never - tolerate being discriminated against, or be subjected to a hostile work environment.”

Jon grew up in the Central Valley and was involved in both the production and business aspects of agriculture. A chance business meeting with a helpful attorney sparked his interest in the law and led to his attending SJCL. Soon after admission to the bar, he opened the Law Office of Jon P. Adams. Services include estate planning, wills, trusts, probate, estate litigation, personal injury, real estate, business transactions, as well as general civil litigation. He recalls fondly the comradery and helpfulness of his instructors, classmates and study groups. On his first night of Justice Ardaiz’ Evidence class nobody would volunteer to brief a case. Resorting to the student roster “Adams” was first. “After due grilling by the Justice, I was told that my application of the law to the facts was entirely incorrect, but he respected that I held my ground with the argument.”

At the time Kathy was looking for a Liberal Arts graduate degree, SJCL was one of the very few options in the Fresno area. Upon graduation, she worked for the Fresno County Public Defender for 6 and ½ years. A three-year stint with Barry Bennett followed handling criminal and labor law cases. In January of 1988, Kathy opened her own offices but her practice remained in those fields. Kathy is most proud of two things: the 25-30 appeals she has handled in the Third District and Fifth District Court of Appeal or Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and the death penalty clients whose sentences she got commuted to life or life in prison. Kathy has always loved travel and hiking. She has published many a story about those pursuits in the Dicta and the Fresno County Bar Bulletin. As to law school she appreciated the “great comradery. We were all in it together with a common goal.”

Elizabeth had her eye on law school when she began her undergraduate studies at California State University Fresno. While working on her bachelor’s degree she interned with the Fresno District Attorney’s Office for the summer. After that experience she knew she wanted to be a prosecutor. She interned at the Fresno District Attorney’s Office throughout law school and worked as a law clerk while awaiting bar results. In December of 2017, she passed the bar and was sworn in as a Fresno County Deputy District Attorney. A year later she accepted a position as a Deputy District Attorney in Monterey, California, and packed her bags for the coast. Elizabeth currently handles a misdemeanor calendar, including driving under the influence cases, sexual assault cases, and cases involving firearms. Elizabeth remembers law school as a very long three years. She indicates both Professors Atkinson and Wrest were helpful to her, especially during bar review.

Rod thought he wanted to be a CPA but had issues with credits and debits. During law school, he clerked for Wagner & Jones in civil litigation. Upon passing the bar, he continued to work there for a few years, followed by short periods with Craig Davis, Hanna, Brophy, and Bradford & Barthel. From 2003-2012, he operated his own practice. For the last six years, Rod has been a partner at Yrulegui & Roberts doing Workers’ Compensation defense and subrogation cases. Rod describes the workers’ compensation practice as “narrow, but deep”. Rod remembers the great professors at SJCL that gave him a solid preparation for the rest of his life (Caeton and Purvis, in particular) and the wonderful friends he made in law school.

Paul started at CSUF intending to get a degree in Business. All the principles were taught with the disclaimer “as long as this is OK with legal.” The deeper he probed the legal aspects, the more interested he became in attending law school. During law school, he clerked with Myers & Overstreet, then continued with them upon graduation for two years, doing insurance defense litigation. Then Paul worked with Caswell, Bell & Hillson for eight years, eventually becoming a partner. Two years with Klein, DeNatale, Goldner LLP followed, before Paul opened his own practice in 2013 and loves it. Paul handles business, real estate, and estates and trusts cases. He has represented the Fresno Association of Realtors since 2007. He got his Broker’s License in 2005 and owns a separate real estate firm. “I really enjoy practicing law every day. It would take a sizable lottery win to get me to stop.”

Upon graduation, Allison worked with a local litigation firm until Deloitte & Touche hired her as a Special Projects Coordinator. That entailed doing what no one else could figure out how to do. She was invited to Deloitte’s national management development program. During that time, she met and married her husband and moved to North Carolina where he maintained a law practice. Allison went to work for Wachovia Bank (later merged with Wells Fargo Bank) where she headed their Estate Tax Department. Four years ago, Allison opened her own consulting business. Having heard the variety of what she does, some law, some not, Jan says, it’s back to: We have a project we have no idea how to do! Call Allison! She can do it!

Bill was just named the California Workers’ Compensation Defense Attorney of the Year by the California Lawyers Association! To think he went to law school just to find a job in a building with air conditioning. Upon graduation, Bill first worked for Eldridge, Anderson & Weakley handling insurance defense cases. From 1997 to 2003, he served as in-house counsel for A&L Products, Inc. doing transactional and corporate compliance work. In 2003, he joined Mullen & Filippi as an Associate, becoming an Associate Partner in 2007. He defends businesses, public agencies, and schools in Workers’ Compensation cases. “I loved law school, the students, staff, and faculty. Purvis was my favorite.” At SJCL, Bill also met his wife, then Michele Creighton, who was the MCLE Coordinator for several years and made the mistake of feeding Bill.

David joined Dowling Aaron in January of 2001 and has been the Chair of its Business Litigation Department since 2014. He says he has learned a great deal in the position, which he describes as intellectually challenging, like law school. An owner in the firm, David manages his own practice, oversees the workloads of the firm’s litigation lawyers, and leads the firm’s recruiting efforts. David’s Fresno roots run deep so his plan was always to stay local. He met his future wife and found his inspiration to attend law school at Fresno State. For David, SJCL made sense in every way. 

As a young child, Lisa watched Perry Mason with her grandmother, and it sparked an interest in going to law school. Her legal career began in civil work at McCormick, Barstow but she wanted to be in the courtroom litigating cases, so she took a job at the Madera County DA’s Office in 1997. In Madera, she prosecuted Sexual Assault cases and worked in the Major Crimes Unit. In 2001, she moved to the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office and was assigned to several units including Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault/Child Abuse and Homicide. In 2014 she was elected District Attorney and was re-elected without opposition in 2018. “Being a prosecutor is my dream job. It allows me to help my community and to be a voice for those who may not have a voice of their own.”

Kevin knew he had the ability to stand up for himself and others, so felt he was headed for a legal career assisting people who did not understand the legal system. In law school he clerked with James Makasian and Roger Nuttall. In 2008, he joined Stammer, McKnight, Barnum & Bailey, focusing on insurance defense cases and being the only attorney in the firm handling criminal defense matters, but the death of his uncle at the hands of a drunk driver motivated him to make a change. In February of 2014, he joined Baradat & Paboojian, Inc. where he handles exclusively plaintiff personal injury cases. He became a partner with the firm in June of 2018. “I love the challenge of being involved in litigation. I think back fondly on the practical courses I took in law school – Criminal Trial Practice with Judge Cullers and Moot Court, Evidence, and Criminal Law with Judges Boone and Conklin. I also enjoyed being called on by Professor Purvis and attempting to answer his questions.”

Chris joined Miles, Sears & Eanni as an Associate immediately upon graduating from SJCL and became a partner two years ago. His practice is entirely plaintiff personal injury and wrongful death, involving primarily motor vehicle accidents and premises liability, along with uninsured/underinsured motorist arbitrations and occasional medical malpractice. His interest in the law stemmed from the stories he heard growing up from his father about his personal injury cases and the injured clients he helped, which made it seem like gratifying work. In every year since 2012, he has been selected for inclusion in the Northern California Rising Stars list. “Law school was pretty enjoyable but the bar was horrible.”

Nancy was working as a legal secretary when her boss said, “You better go to law school rather than constantly saying how bored you are.” So she did. Upon graduating, Nancy worked with the Tulare County Counsel’s office for four years in dependency and environmental health cases. After two years in her own practice, in 1997, she joined McCormick, Kabot, Jenner & Lew, where she has now worked for almost 22 years. She does municipal and employment law for Porterville, Exeter, and Dinuba as well as defending most litigation against those cities. As to law school, she remembers getting home really late and then getting up really early to go to work.

Chris went to law school to help plaintiffs who might otherwise not have their rights protected. Throughout law school he worked with Georgeson & Belardinelli and joined the firm as an Associate upon admission to the bar. He handled primarily personal injury and business litigation, becoming a partner in 2012. In 2014, he won a $128,610,000 verdict in a land and water dispute in Kings County. It was one of the largest jury verdicts in California in that year. In late 2014, he joined Kabatcheck, LLP in Los Angeles continuing his work in personal injury litigation, class actions, and insurance bad faith cases. He became a partner there in 2017. “What do I remember about law school? Meeting my wife there!” Chris married fellow graduate Alexandra Belardinelli Noyes (’09) who is currently “inactive” raising their two sons in their home in San Marino

James has always wanted to be an attorney. He earned a Social Science degree as an U.C. San Diego and decided that he wanted to return home to Fresno for law school. During law school, Academic Dean Sally Perring encouraged James to take on an externship with U.S. District Judge Ishii. James loved it and caught the public service bug. He worked for the Judge Ishii for almost five years after graduation, conducting legal research and assisting the Court in writing orders. In June of 2018, James joined the Fresno Local Office of the EEOC as a trial attorney. In that role, he advises the enforcement unit and litigates employment discrimination matters on behalf of the EEOC. James describes himself as an over-preparer which served him well when he and his two partners, Amanda DeHart and George Vasquez, won the statewide Roger J. Traynor Best Oral Argument Moot Court Competition in 2013. James has taught Legal Methods and Civil Procedure, and now teaches Moot Court at SJCL.

Paul entered college with no particular career goal although as early as the eighth grade, his teacher was projecting he would be an attorney. This was also the suggestion of his parents. After getting his BS in Criminology, he completed the Lawyer’s Assistant Program at the University of San Diego and worked in that capacity for about two years. “I might as well do law school.” His paralegal position with the Law Office of Craig A. Davis transitioned naturally into clerking and his first attorney position doing plaintiff’s personal injury cases. Wanting to be in court more, he moved to a small firm doing personal injury and criminal defense. Finally in 2004, he opened his own practice and continues in those fields. “I like to be personally deeply involved in every one of my cases. Now, I do not have to advertise because most of my cases come by referral from previous clients.” Paul says law school was a trying thing, but everybody pulled together, and he benefited greatly from his study group friends.

Peter hoped a law degree would lead to a college professorship and it did! In 1983, he was hired into the new position of Alumni Relations at Fresno Pacific University. A year later he was teaching Business Law to undergraduates. For many years, he ran the Grants and Research Office at FPU while continuing to teach. After a two-year stint as the head of human resources, he taught full-time in the School of Business for both undergraduates and graduates, as well as being the sole undergraduate business advisor. In August of 2015, Peter became the Program Director and Chair of the Paralegal Studies Program at Fresno City College, but still teaching! “It’s fun communicating law to non-lawyers!” As to law school, Peter says “I developed very close relationships with my classmates. You can’t survive law school without that!”

Jane entered law school because she was always disturbed about the unfairness in the world and wanted to help. Upon graduation from SJCL, she did not immediately take the bar exam, becoming instead the Director of the Fresno Needle Exchange program. When she finally took the bar in February of 2000, she passed on the first attempt and went to work with Fresno County Legal Services. When she discovered she wanted to be in court more, she joined the Fresno Public Defenders Office. She retired from that position in March of 2019 after 17 years, and now operates her own criminal defense practice, taking only the cases she really wants to defend, some of them pro bono. Jane says she made dear friends in law school, ones she with whom she is still in contact today.

Kristina attained her law degree from SJCL and an MBA from Fresno State in 2015. She worked as a law clerk at Jacobson, Hansen & McQuillan after graduating from law school, where she was hired as an associate after passing the Bar Exam. Kristina is currently employed at CSAA Insurance Group and serves as the SJCL Alumni Association President. On April 18, 2020, she will celebrate the 20th anniversary of ShoeBox Sharing, Inc. a community-based organization that donates to children locally and in Armenia.

Jennifer started kindergarten the same day her mother, Michelle Oleksa (’99) started law school at SJCL and decided that day she wanted be a lawyer too. Beginning in the summer after her 2L year, Jennifer interned with the California Attorney General’s Office. After the bar exam, she worked full time as a Graduate Legal Assistant there and, with November bar results, was promoted to Deputy Attorney General. Her work is entirely criminal appeals, writs, and trials. In two and a half years, she has argued before the Fifth District court of Appeal 10 times and expects to argue a death penalty appeal before the California Supreme Court in the coming year. She feels very lucky to have fallen into her dream job, stating: “I have an amazing career here and here I shall stay until they drag me out.” Jennifer will begin teaching first-year Legal Methods at SJCL in August, 2019.

Susan was the first woman elected to a County-wide political office when she became the Fresno County Clerk/Registrar of Voters. “Law School changed my life.  It taught me to think differently and was important to my success in politics.  As Clerk, I understood Court procedures and on the Board of Supervisors, I was able to serve as a resource for the Board.”

Dan’s practice is transactional law, 99% in the video gaming arena. He negotiates and drafts artist, voiceover, music, and game developers’ contracts, and was originally a game developer himself. Dan works with clients all over the world including in the United States, China, Hungary, Germany, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and Russia, all from his home office in the foothills. He deals with issues ranging from conflicting copyright laws to digital licensing agreements. In his spare time, Dan is a published author. His fiction book, Ghosting, was number 1 on Amazon’s bestseller list for several weeks. He is working on a second book that should be published in fall of 2019.

Michelle Sassano had two young children at home, a three-year-old and a 3-month-old, when she enrolled in law school. She says the help of her study partners and professors helped her make it through. As an Associate Attorney at Weakley Arendt, Michelle represents entities like school districts in areas like negligent supervision, discrimination and harassment, in addition to the areas of business, contracts and real estate disputes. “I loved law school, I loved the learning.”

Cheryl went to law school because she was tired of the family businesses being sued. They were hit twice by serial ADA lawsuit attorneys who swept through Fresno filing suit, then asking for payment to dismiss the suits. “Since I went to law school, the businesses have never been sued again for any reason.” Upon graduation and passing the bar, Cheryl worked briefly with several firms, but ultimately opened her own practice. For the last 15 years, she has exclusively handled family law and estate planning matters. “Dean Pearson warned us the first night that we would be lost for some time during the first year. One day in the second semester, I was staring at the negligence flowchart for Torts and suddenly everything fell into place.”

Erica clerked for the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office and the Legal Department of Table Mountain Casino during law school. As an Associate with Weakley, Arendt & McGuire, PC, she defended various municipalities in wrongful death and personal injury actions. As Chief Assistant City Attorney, Erica oversees the Code Enforcement Unit encompassing Community Compliance, Rental Housing, the Anti-Slum Enforcement Team, and Neighborhood Revitalization. Her unit focuses on achieving compliance through agreements with property owners, and administrative and court actions, including injunctions, abatement warrants, and receiverships. Recently Erica taught herself adoption law. Then she, her husband, Jose, and stepdaughter, Jasmine, adopted two young children. “My mom always told me to ‘Stand for something or fall for anything.’ It’s no wonder I’ve spent most of my career defending others. Thank you SJCL and the wonderful professors who helped shape me.”

Adam was deciding whether he should return to England or pursue a career in the United States when he met Diane Steel and Joyce Morodomi and decided he wanted to attend SJCL. Upon graduation, he worked for three years with Goldberg & Ibarra, doing Workers’ Compensation and Personal Injury cases. In 2016, he became the Chief Operating Officer for the California Autism Center. Adam runs the Administrative Team, consisting of Human Resources, Scheduling, Communications, Information Technology, Claims, and Compliance. With 140 employees, the Center assists 100 families from Fresno to Merced in obtaining services for their children with autism. They hope to expand to serve people from Bakersfield to Merced, and rural areas of those counties. “I enjoy the business aspects of this work – building efficiency and supporting our employees, but I am also so very committed to obtaining the highest quality clinical work for autism related disorders.”

Traci first worked in the D.A.’s Office through an internship during law school. While awaiting bar results she was an Executive Fellow in the California Department of Food and Agriculture under Secretary Ann Veneman. Upon passing the bar, she returned to the D.A.’s Office as a Deputy, then as the Chief Deputy D.A. of the Juvenile Unit. In 2018, she became the Assistant District Attorney, overseeing the Chiefs of the Misdemeanor, Financial Fraud, and Juvenile Units. This is a management level position entailing personnel issues and procedures and policy creation. Traci remains directly active in court as she staffs the juvenile human trafficking court. Traci was SBA President at SJCL and remembers picking out the furniture for the new Student Lounge in the Clovis building. She attributes the personal connections with students and faculty with helping her to pass the bar on the first try. 

Since high school Peter’s interest in law inspired him to read each big Supreme Court decision. He opened his own office after graduating from SJCL and was hired to review DACA applications for Insure America, a local non-profit founded by the Nisei Farmer’s League. Today Peter serves as the Director of Insure America and General Counsel for the Nisei Farmers League. These roles enable him to assist farmers and educate officials on the impact of regulations from the State Department of Industrial Relations and the U.S. Department of Labor on agriculture. Peter says he greatly enjoyed working in the New American Legal Clinic during law school, which led him to choose immigration law as his career.

Leila represents school districts in a wide variety of situations, including labor, employment, student, and facilities issues. “The teachers and students at SJCL were all so collegial – welcoming and encouraging. We were all in it together. That worked better for me than the highly competitive environment of larger schools. Because there are so many SJCL graduates working in the Fresno area, that attitude carries over to the entire legal community.”

Eddie has worked with Quinlan, Kershaw & Fanucchi for 23 years, doing primarily plaintiff personal injury work. Because of his accounting background, a corporate practice has also grown over time. Four SJCL graduates, including Eddie, work at QKF. Eddie enjoyed the relationships he made with friends and professors at SJCL. In 2008, Eddie was appointed the Honorary Consul of Italy for eight counties within the San Joaquin Valley. In that capacity, he manages visas for U.S. citizens planning extended stays in Italy and Italian citizens with issues that arise for them while visiting the U.S.

Bob was in the Army Reserves when he learned of SJCL. On his return from summer duty he called the school on a Thursday and enrolled on Friday and started class on Monday. He wasn’t going to continue into the second year until Dean Eymann called him to tell him he finished first in the class. In his third year, as a certified law student, he was doing trials for the Public Defender. That was when he finally knew he wanted to be a lawyer. While awaiting bar results, he clerked with Parichan, Renberg, & Crossman and continued there as an associate for five years after learning he had passed the Bar. In April of 1980 he became a partner with what is now Perez, Williams, Medina & Rodriguez, LLC. His work is 95% personal injury and worker’s compensation with some insurance coverage cases and a rare election contest. In the 1970’s virtually every student was also working full time. Bob says he met a lot of interesting people in law school, but it was all studying…no time for much socializing.

Marla was working for the State Water Resources Control Board in Sacramento when she became intrigued by the legal issues involved in their hearings. Beginning at the end of her third year, she clerked with Perez, Williams, Medina & Rodriguez and became an Associate in December of 2013. “One part of law practice that I really enjoy is seeing how Civil Procedure applies and works in real life situations.” Marla represents plaintiffs in personal injury, employment, wage and hour, discrimination, retaliation, and elder abuse cases. “I miss the study groups in law school. It was fun to sit around arguing about concepts like how many causes of action we could find in an old Torts exam. I don’t miss the heavy books.”

Since he was a small child, people told Mark he should be a lawyer. During law school, he clerked for David Milligan working on personal injury cases, but didn’t particularly like that field. Upon admission to the bar, he immediately opened his own practice. In fact, he was sworn in as quickly as possible as a potential client was waiting for Mark to represent him. Mark’s practice is exclusively criminal law. He accepted some family law cases early on, but quickly learned that criminal defendants are much nicer than people going through divorce. As to law school, “I would have paid extra for Dean Pearson’s Torts class. Whenever I was asked to brief a case, I would act out the action of the case in the aisle. Plus, you really got to know all the professors at SJCL. They really care.”

Alex worked for Congressman Cal Dooley for four years before attending law school. During law school and upon graduation, he worked for Cal’s brother Dan Dooley at Dooley & Herr which ultimately became Dooley, Herr, Peltzer & Richardson. In 2013, Peltzer & Richardson was formed doing primarily legal work and strategic and policy planning for municipalities and public water agencies. The firm is the City Attorney for Visalia. Alex enjoyed the different personalities of the professors at SJCL and even taught Torts himself for a year. Alex said he went to law school to combine his public policy experience with legal expertise and that is exactly what he is doing.

Delilah was inspired by her aunt, Irma Edmonds, an attorney in Fresno, to attend law school. Upon passing the bar, Delilah worked in the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office for four years, then the Department of Child Support for two. While there, Delilah was surprised to learn she was carrying twin girls. A third daughter joined the team 2 ½ years later. Delilah and her husband decided she would invest in her family, place her career on hold, and home-school the girls. This decision led Delilah to become heavily involved in a national home-schooling organization called Classical Conversations, serving as the San Joaquin Valley Area Representative for five years. Currently, Delilah teaches Criminology and Constitutional Law at Reedley Community College and Business Law at College of the Sequoias. Delilah says the small size and culture of SJCL made her feel connected and grew to lifelong friendships.

John intended to be a police officer but at some point he thought “If I’m going to go to school for so many years, I might as well go to law school.” Upon graduation, he first worked with the Federal Defender’s Office. In July of 1988, he joined the firm of John Loomis (SJCL founder) and Joanne Sanoian (’82), doing primarily civil litigation. His work transitioned to a mix of probate and criminal defense. In 1995, John opened his own practice which is 80% criminal defense. John remembers that you HAD to be prepared for Wanger’s Civil Procedure class, and he loved Judge Caeton’s Criminal Law class.

Kirsten insures that the University abides by California State University policies and all applicable state and federal regulations related to recruitment and hiring at Fresno State. She serves as the EEO Officer and COI Officer, monitoring affirmative action and conflict of interest policies. She is the ADA Compliance Officer insuring ADA accommodations are legally provided for faculty and staff. Since graduating from law school, Kirsten practiced at Parker, Kern, Nard and Wenzel in employment and Workers’ Compensation defense and McCormick, Barstow, Sheppard, Wayte and Carruth in personal injury and medical malpractice defense. She also worked at Dooley, Herr, Pedersen and Bailey, representing Tulare District Hospital and other public entities. As an adjunct, Kirsten has taught paralegal courses at Fresno City College. Kirsten has been a member of Fresno State’s administration since 2014. Kirsten was in law school during SJCL’s move to the new building and was excited for the school’s opportunity for growth. “Having both a Masters of Business Administration and a Juris Doctor is crucial to my job. Plus, I rely on my different practice experiences to tackle the challenges of my job every day.”

Dan’s undergraduate degree was in Criminal Justice as he planned to enter law enforcement, but the job market at that time was not good. “If I can’t catch criminals, at least I can prosecute them.” Law school became the next option. During law school, he clerked with Lenden Webb. Upon admission to the bar, Dan did special appearances all over California for a while to gain some court experience quickly. That led to him joining White Canepa in July of 2018. Dan’s practice is exclusively medical malpractice defense. “It’s fascinating because every case is different and can turn on very small facts.” Dan remembers his close friends in law school. “We were engaged with everyone. We all tried to help each other.”

Ella was always fascinated by the law and its continuous evolution: she always wanted to go to law school. She clerked at Dias Law Firm and ultimately became an Associate. Personal injury litigation was her initial focus, but now her work encompasses a wide range of civil litigation, including employment, family, real property, and high-speed rail issues. She does a great deal of research and writing. “I love the firm and the variety of the work I do.” As to law school, her immediate memory was of the great people she worked with in the Library – Jonette Montgomery and Spencer Gong.

While working for the California State Legislature, Allie realized she had become more interested in how laws are implemented than how they are passed. She worked with Sara Hedgpeth-Harris (’86) in environmental law for four years as a law clerk and then as a lawyer. In November of 2013, she joined Sagaser, Watkins & Wieland PC, practicing in the areas of labor and employment defense, including employer education. A majority of the lawyers in the firm are SJCL graduates. Allie says she and Ian make a good team. She loves to write, so she does appeals and motions, while Ian prefers to be in court. Allie spends most of her time advising employers on employee workplace issues.

Brett was inspired to attend law school by seeing lawyers help people. He wanted to be able to do the same. During law school he clerked for the Fresno County Public Defender, United States Magistrate Judge Christensen, and Clark Roundtree. Upon graduation and admission to the bar, Brett worked for Marderosian & Swanson for 26 years. In 2014, he joined Ericksen Arbuthnot, a statewide firm with offices in San Francisco, San Jose, and Sacramento, as well as Fresno. Brett’s entire career has been in civil litigation, now primarily representing insurance companies in complex tort, crop loss, breach of contract, and auto accident cases. “I can’t wait to get to work each day. Every day is fresh and interesting.” Brett remembers Moot Court: “It was our first chance as law students to see how we would respond under pressure!”

Brande majored in Criminology – Victimology at CSUF. At SJCL, she worked as a contract paralegal in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the enforcement of criminal restitution, special assessments, and fines for a group of Hurricane Katrina fraud cases and in the affirmative civil litigation unit to recover damages for intentionally or negligently caused wildland fires on federal lands. Brande later joined Weakley & Arendt PC. Her practice is public entity defense, representing cities, counties and school districts in civil litigation. The bulk of her cases involve defending law enforcement officers in civil rights cases. The highlight of law school for Brande was meeting with other students to work through ways of mastering rules and preparing for exams. Brande was a member of the Board of Directors of the SJCL Alumni Association. She is currently a member of the Board of Directors of the San Joaquin Valley chapter of the Federal Bar Association, a member-at-large of the Judicial Advisory Committee of the Eastern District of California, and a Lawyer Representative to the Ninth Circuit Judicial Conference.

After attaining his B.A. in Political Science from UCLA, James worked the graveyard shift as a deputy sheriff throughout law school. James has devoted many years to representing public entities like school districts, cities and counties, and private business interests - in addition to teaching at the police academy at Fresno City College.

Upon graduation, Kathi worked with Bennett & Ostroff for a year and half, then in a partnership with Keith Lusk handing wills and trusts and dissolution cases. Thereafter, she shared space with Mary Louise Frampton and Barbara Karshmer further developing her dual practice. After sharing space again with Doris Coleman and Ruth Ratzlaff, Kathi went completely on her own in 1995, doing almost exclusively wills and trusts cases. Kathi has taught Wills and Trusts continuously at SJCL for many years. Kathi says law school was one of the best times of her life because of the comradery amongst the students.

David chose law school because his father practice law and after enjoying an undergraduate class in media law at Fresno State, he discovered that he too had an aptitude for law. Upon graduation, he joined the law firm of Henry, Logoluso & Blum where he practiced business litigation and public agency representation. He joined the Atkinson firm in 2006 working for a brief period in their Sacramento office. The firm was looking to expand into the Central Valley, so David returned to open their Fresno office. The Firm’s Fresno office now has 10 attorneys. David’s practice is roughly 70% assisting large public education institutions in election law, contracts, and reorganization issues, along with 30% in private litigation. He remembers his study group with Shelli Pepper and David Moreno. He will never forget the time he had to abruptly leave Rene Sample’s Civil Trial Practice class one evening to attend the birth of his oldest son. He is taking that same son to BYU to start HIS undergraduate education this fall.

Nicholas went to law school because it gave him the opportunity to help people when the world was crashing down around them. He worked with Darryl Freedman as a law clerk for two years, then became an associate upon admission to the bar. He works as a “plaintiff’s advocate” handling personal injury cases – primarily motor vehicle accidents, dog bites, slip & falls, and harassment. “At first in law school I questioned whether I could do it, but the mind set finally came together. I truly love what I am doing! We are working to keep Darryl’s legacy and client-centered approach alive.”

Wes went to work for a labor and employment firm after graduation. He represented clients in litigation and advised on compliance matters. He joined Lozano Smith LLP in May of 2018 and jumped into public entity practice. Wes works with school districts on business and construction matters, local governments in municipal code enforcement, and a variety of other topics from real property matters to board/council governance concerns. “Law school is an immersion study like learning a foreign language. It’s immersion in the language of law. It was a great opportunity to learn from instructors who are fluent in the law, like taking Evidence from Judge Chittick, who deals with the subject every day.”

Mario’s stepfather was an attorney. The work looked interesting and Mario thought he had the aptitude for it. While in law school, he clerked with the Tulare County Public Defender’s Office as well as a worker’s compensation defense firm. Upon graduation, he and a classmate, Jason Kerlan, opened a partnership, with Mario focusing on bankruptcy law. He remembers he was so eager to get started, he asked Judge Caeton to swear him in in the underground parking lot of the state courthouse. In 2002, Mario opened his own office, continuing to work on Chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy cases. “Law school was more difficult than I expected, but I enjoyed the faculty and classes and made lifelong friends.”

Brad decided to become a lawyer after he observed the Presiding Juvenile Court Judge. That judge had a vision and the authority to get something done. During law school Brad interned with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. He also worked as a Hearing Representative for the CCPOA for two years, becoming full-time upon entering the Bar in December of 1999. He represents correctional officers in administrative hearings when they are unjustly accused or disciplined, work he has done for 20 years. “SJCL offers a real opportunity. It was not a competitive environmental. Rather we were all competing FOR each other.”

During his banking years, Michael became interested in law enforcement and joined the Madera Sheriff’s Office as a Volunteer Deputy. During justice classes taught by former Fresno District Attorney Ed Hunt, Ed convinced Michael to study law at SJCL. After graduation, Michael worked with Olson, Blanco & Tomassian in civil law awaiting bar results. Upon passing the bar, Michael joined the Madera County District Attorney’s Office where he worked for 22 and ½ years. He handled cases ranging from civil asset forfeiture to violent crimes to homicides. From January of 2009 until January of 2015, Michael served as the District Attorney for Madera County.

Lisa wanted to have a career that would be stimulating and provide her with an opportunity to make a positive difference in her community. In her role as Deputy County Counsel she practices Dependency law and works alongside several fellow SJCL grads. Lisa likes the fact that the field of law provides opportunities to learn something new every day. She says the unique status of her alma mater as a small but mighty law school makes for terrific, and rare, comradery among peers. “I don’t think you see this level of reception and co-operation among legal communities a lot.”

While in law school, William worked full-time as a law clerk with Lang Richert & Patch, doing consumer collection work. From 2007–2012, he did commercial collections for Coleman & Horowitt. At the same time, he was attending California State University Fresno obtaining a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. In 2012 he joined Pascuzzi, Pascuzzi & Stoker where he handles real estate and business-related cases. William has been teaching since 2013 in the Department of Finance & Business at CSUF where he also participates in the Laval Mentorship Program. William balances his life by serving on a myriad of non-profit boards – Central California Legal Services (currently President), Fresno County Bar Association, Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation, La Raza Lawyers, and Family Leadership. “My non-profit work gives me the satisfaction of helping people who can’t afford lawyers. My teaching lets me directly impact the futures of Fresno youth.”

For the last 20 years, Rick has handled litigation, company acquisitions, and contract customizations for an expanding telecommunications company. Although he’s now 74, Rick has no plans to retire because he enjoys what he does. As a runner of 13 marathons and at least 25 miles a week, he can probably work as long as he wants! Rick’s memories of law school reach back to the very first few days. “It was very intimidating. No matter how prepared you were, the faculty (especially Judge Wanger) would trip you up.”

Having studied microbiology in her native Nigeria, Chineme fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming a lawyer upon coming to the U.S. At the Juvenile Law Center, she represents parents in dependency proceedings and strives to secure the best living arrangements for their children. She says her job is at times heart wrenching, but also quite rewarding. Chineme says the accessibility of SJCL professors, and mentorship from her upper division classmates helped during law school. “When people actually care how you are doing, it makes you want to work hard to succeed.”

Susan was surprised when an attorney she hired told her she should be a lawyer and he would write a letter of reference for her to apply to law school. Not much later, she was in law school and clerking for the United States Attorney in the misdemeanor unit, doing research and writing briefs. When Susan’s class graduated, the job market was very tight, so she jumped into working with her husband’s firm (Richard Hemb (’92). She took over the firm’s family and bankruptcy practice and the rest is history. Susan is also now a court-appointed minor’s counsel. “At SJCL, if you were stuck on a topic, you could talk to any faculty member anytime. Everybody – students and faculty – helped each other to be successful.”

From the 6th grade when Rene’ met a local female judge she knew she wanted to be a lawyer. During law school, she clerked with Dwayne Zinkin in real estate law, but when she took the Trial Practice class taught by Judge Lawrence O’Neill she knew that was what she wanted to do. Upon graduation, Rene’ worked with McCormick, Barstow, Sheppard, Wayte and Carruth, doing insurance defense for 8 years. Five years followed as in-house counsel for Allstate Insurance. In 2000, Cornwell & Sample was formed. Rene’s cases are primarily plaintiff personal injury. She has been a member of ABOTA since 2010 and has tried over 40 jury trials. Rene paid it forward by teaching the Trial Practice class at SJCL for 10 years. Last year when Darryl B. Freedman, another SJCL graduate, passed away, Rene’ and her law partner Stephen R. Cornwell, took over as owners of his firm to help continue his legacy. Rene’ and her family are also active in the local recovery community. Their oldest son has been sober for 5 years and together they opened My Time Recovery where they help families struggling with addiction.

Five years as a middle school teacher led Ramon to heed the advice of a former college professor and enroll in law school. He clerked at the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office during his last two years and then joined the Yarra Law Group upon his admission to the bar. Ramon worked in immigration law there for three years before joining Lazaro Salazar Law, Inc. Ramon continues his focus on immigration law with cases ranging from naturalization to removal defense against the ever-changing backdrop of immigration law. He has also begun to work in criminal defense, which he says allows him to play a small role in helping hard working individuals achieve their goals. Ramon says graduation from SJCL was one of his most memorable moments as he was able to finally share the rewards of all the hard work with his family and classmates.

Benny’s law practice is focused on helping small businesses and startups succeed. He was initially attracted to SJCL by the great bar pass rate and says his choice to attend after working as a training manager for several Bay Area tech companies was a good one, even though he worked full time and had a family at home. “It was a huge commitment, but I’d do it again if I had the opportunity!”

Don believed law would be a worthwhile and meaningful profession. (He confided that had law not worked out he figured his doctorate would qualify him for a position at the university so he could teach history.) During law school he was a library monitor and clerked at the District Attorney’s Office doing law and motion work. Upon graduation he worked as a Research Attorney for the Fresno County Superior Court, often working with Judge (eventually Justice) Hollis Best. From there, he joined Helon & Manfredo in 1981, where he worked with fellow classmate Marvin T. Helon for 38 years, 32 of them as a partner. This was a general practice. Don covered the firm's civil litigation in different fields from personal injury, collections, landlord/tenant to trust and probate litigation to real estate and commercial transactions. In March 2019, Don joined Baker Manock& Jensen where he continues to handle civil litigation and business-related matters. “Law school was a real challenge with lots of study and anxiety. The experience made for some great friendships and memories.”

Erick credits the SJCL alumni network in helping him to secure hard-to-get internships with a local judge and the U.S. Attorney’s Office during law school. He says work in correctional law is fascinating as it takes him into prisons and, once in a great while, death row. “I have often referred to my coursework on constitutional law while working to defend correctional officers and occasionally the governor’s office.”

The Paralegal Program was so much fun, Mike figured law school would be, too – and that it would continue to be less painful than his previous vocation as a welder. He clerked throughout both programs with Myers & Overstreet doing insurance defense. In 1992, he became a litigation associate with the firm, shifting over time to an exclusive focus on law and motion and appellate work. In 2000, Mike opened his own practice doing contract research and writing and appellate work for other attorneys in civil cases. Mike has argued before the California Supreme Court once and before the California Court of Appeal several times, most recently in March 2019 in a case permitting the recovery of treble damages for theft from a business by one of its owners. Mike remembers the old Shields building, the donut and video shops, the parking lot student lounge and meeting his wife, Gwen, at a Paralegal Forum at SJCL.

Jeff served in the Army (1977-1981) as Airborne Infantry. He did a two-year assignment with the Arctic Paratroopers in Alaska, followed by two years in 101st Airborne Division. After his service, Jeff says his work in law enforcement provided a natural transition to law school. During law school, he interned at the D.A.’s Office for a summer, then worked as a post-bar law clerk, until being admitted and being offered a permanent, full-time position. He has worked his way through the typical secession of case types – from calendar to juvenile to miscellaneous to felonies. “I did a lot of reading and writing in law school, but I have always enjoyed learning new things. I also loved debating with the law professors.”

Allison worked with her father, Russell Ryan, in the Motschiedler firm starting in high school, but was resistant to the idea of becoming a lawyer. As time went on that changed and she enrolled at SJCL. She clerked at the firm beginning in 2015 and became an associate in November of 2017. Her practice is primarily litigation in employment law. She also currently serves as a board member and board secretary at the non-profit Resources for Independence Central Valley. In October, Allison will marry Rikki, whom she met in Sweden in 2014, and move there. She will continue to work for the firm remotely. She remembers HOURS of studying in law school and how being a writer and, then Editor-in-Chief, of the San Joaquin Agricultural Law Review consumed her life for two of those three years.

Linda always thought about becoming a lawyer, but when she got a traffic ticket and beat it in court, she felt empowered and applied. She planned to practice family law, but NALC was born while she was in law school. Connecting with people who really needed her help resonated with her. In her third year she clerked with Phillip Kim’s immigration firm and upon graduating law school she joined Lazaro Salazar Law, Inc. first as a clerk, and then as an Associate. Linda has also worked for the national non-profit, Kids in Need of Defense (KIND). In November of 2018, she joined SJCL’s faculty and was named Director of the New American Legal Clinic. “I am excited about the growth of the Clinic and the ability to assist even more people.” Linda was recently selected as one of the 2019 “40 below 40” to watch by Business Street Online.

While working as a Clinical Laboratory Technologist at Valley Medical Center, Julia heard a hardworking young medical resident say he was putting in long hours so that he could one day open his own practice. That resonated with Julia and led her to law school. Julia first thought her career would be in agricultural law. Then she found her passion in Judge Fitch’s Community Property class. Since opening her own practice in 1986, she has worked exclusively in family law. She became a Certified Family Law Specialist in 1993. This work often enables her to give people immediate relief in stressful situations. A big change in her practice has just occurred as she and Teri Ann Kezirian have become partners and are moving to new offices.

Nick’s undergraduate degree in music (classical guitar) came from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Prior to entering the conservatory, he was planning an education and career beyond music. While still a teenager, one of Nick’s music mentors was also an attorney. Having the goal to obtain a multi-dimensional education, pursuing a law degree and legal career seemed a perfect fit. Upon joining the Bar, Nick became a Deputy District Attorney in Tulare County. Over 15 years, he handled misdemeanors to death penalty cases, including years in the homicide, major narcotics, and sexual assault units. In 2008, he was promoted to a supervisor. In January of 2015, he served as the Assistant District Attorney for Kings County. In June of 2017 he returned home to Tulare County as a Senior Deputy Public Defender. “Having worked both sides of the legal aisle adds a crucial depth of understanding of the system. Drawing from my music continues to make me a better attorney and law a better musician. I am so fortunate to have studied at SJCL and the music conservatory. The combination of the two created the exact foundation and career I always desired.”