Alumni Success

Amanda wanted a graduate degree that would enable her to contribute to her community. During law school, she worked as a certified law student for Child Support Services in Merced while also volunteering with organizations that support survivors of domestic violence in both Merced and Mariposa. Upon being admitted to the bar, she provided pro bono legal services to those organization. Amanda was in private practice in the family law arena for a couple of years after graduation, then joined the Stanislaus County Counsel’s Office in 2015. Working half-time, she does contract review and advises several county agencies. The other half of her time is spent volunteering with two Buddhist organizations, teaching Buddhist practices in the prison in Tracy and the meditation center in Modesto. “I remember my study partners. I will never again have such interesting and supportive relationships. I learned in law school that I am capable of having an impact on the world.” Amanda and her two partners, George Vasquez and James Mugridge, won the statewide Traynor Best Oral Argument Moot Court Competition in 2013.

Joe did Mock Trial in Boy Scouts which was led by Magistrate Dennis Beck. He enjoyed the intellectual challenge and the feeling he could help people with law. “Also, I flunked Calculus, so I couldn’t be an engineer.” From his first year of law school, he worked full-time as a law clerk at Cole Fisher, appearing in Workers’ Compensation Court 3-4 days a week. Upon passing the July bar, he became an associate with the firm and a partner in 2005. Joe became a Certified Workers’ Compensation Specialist in 1998. The firm represents injured workers and works to dovetail benefits and Social Security rights to maximize injured plaintiffs’ resources. “I remember Jan teaching us in Torts how to think through exam writing. Our study group – Albert Ramirez, Mario DiSalvo, Dennis Gaab, John Rorabaugh and I took law school very seriously and met regularly.”

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.”

D’Artagnan attained an M.B.A. and enjoyed an impressive career in international business and retail before enrolling in law school. A few of his notable positions include Senior International Buyer/International Logistics Supervisor for Duncan Enterprises, and Procurement Projects Manager for Schneider Electric in Fresno. During law school he worked as a legal marketing writer for Emerson Church Law, and later as a law clerk at Michael Sullivan before becoming an associate. He now represents self-insured employers, third-party administrators and corporations in all aspects of Workers’ Compensation law.

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.

Early in his private practice, Michael began specializing in health care issues, in part because of health challenges faced by his youngest daughter. In 2013, he became the President of the Valley Children’s Medical Group Foundation. He is responsible for most of VCH’s operations except hospital-based care. This includes VCH’s regional sites, clinics and partnerships. VCH is rapidly expanding. Thanks to improved treatment, children who used to die of cancer, heart defects, and hemophilia, for example, are now saved, but often require ongoing expensive treatment once they reach 18. A priority for VCH is creating partnerships to ensure these young people get the continuing care they need as adults.

Terri went to law school because her father was an attorney who taught in the Tax Program at SJCL. Terri served an internship with Judge Eckhart Thompson of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Fresno. After entering the Bar, she was accepted into the U.S. Department of Justice Honors Program of the Office of the United States Trustee, the agency that acts as a “watchdog” over all bankruptcy cases. Thereafter, she served as a Trial Attorney for the United States Trustee in Orange County. She was promoted to Assistant United States Trustee in Los Angeles and also served in that capacity in the Riverside office. Wanting to return to trial work, Terri became a Trial Attorney in the United States Trustee’s Honolulu office before returning home to Fresno in 2015. In Los Angeles she managed a United States Trustee’s Office with a staff of 60. Terri has conducted numerous bankruptcy trainings at the National Advocacy Center of the United States Department of Justice. For three years, she taught bankruptcy fraud courses for the FBI at Quantico. “I appreciated that the SJCL professors not only taught the law but also real-life application of the law. Those real-life cases made the lights go on for all of us.”

In her last year of law school, Renee clerked for Elia & Sciandra doing criminal defense work. Upon passing the bar, she was recruited to join the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. Renee worked at the District Attorney’s office for six years and quickly worked her way through Misdemeanor Trials, Felony Trials, Specialty teams, and then the Workers’ Compensation Fraud Unit. Renee left the District Attorney’s office to pursue a career focusing on representing the rights of employers, including workers’ compensation defense, insurance defense and employment law. Time as the Managing Attorney at Justice, Brass & Zuckerman and then as a litigation attorney for the Fresno City Attorney followed. She then opened the Fresno office of Stockwell, Harris, Woolverton & Helphrey where she worked as the Managing attorney for 12 years. Now, Renee is a partner with Michael Sullivan & Associates handling workers’ compensation defense cases. Renee appreciated the commitment and common-sense approach to teaching by the practicing lawyers who were part of the SJCL faculty.

Greg began his career practicing insurance defense with Parichan, Renberg, Crossland & Harvey. In 2000 he joined Walter & Wilhelm doing bankruptcy work, specially focusing on the intersection of insolvency and intellectual property issues. In 2007 he joined the U.S. Trustee’s Office as a Trial Attorney. He was promoted to Assistant U.S. Trustee in 2014. He oversees the administration of all bankruptcy cases and general office operations. As to law school, he greatly enjoyed his study groups that helped him make it through exams!

Darcy always wanted to go to law school but family came first. She settled down in the Valley and law school didn’t seem feasible until she discovered SJCL. While in school, Darcy balanced her coursework with motherhood and an internship at a local law firm. She has always been drawn to public service, so she joined Central California Legal Services in February, where she is a member of the Housing Team. “Law school was the time of my life. It was fun because it challenged me. It gave me the tools to participate effectively in making my community and country a better place.”

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.”

Upon graduating from SJCL Linda began her legal career as a research attorney at the Fifth District Court of Appeal. After working for five different appellate justices she was promoted in 2011 to her current position of Managing Attorney. Her responsibilities include overseeing a staff of attorneys, performing specialized legal work, and serving on the Executive Management Team. Linda enjoyed combining law school and motherhood, as her first child was born between her second and third years at SJCL.

For Rachel, the decision to go to law school was a mixture of family influence and what her family called “an affinity for arguing.” From the outset of law school, she clerked at Cole Fisher and continued there as an attorney after passing the bar exam. She handles applicant Workers’ Compensation and Social Security Disability cases. “I get to help people who really need the help. Having been injured has been the worst experience of their lives. I have the opportunity to make their lives better in a very real way.” Family crises made law school a difficult start for Rachel, but “I got hands on assistance from professors that I probably would not have gotten elsewhere. They wanted me to succeed.” She met great friends and began dating a fellow student, Michael Mahoney, whom she had known since they were kids. Now they have three of their own.

Michelle works as a neighborhood problem solver, assigned to one of 21 divisions in the City of Los Angeles. Her job is to work to resolve any issue that deteriorates the living conditions in the neighborhoods to which she is assigned, including illegal dumping, abandoned buildings, homelessness issues, or illegal sales of alcohol to minors. The work is designed to build relationships in the community. (Jan’s note. What a great job to have!) Michelle said “I loved law school. It was one of the happiest times of my life.” Her study group members have become life-long friends, including Linda Richardson, Nancy Stegall, and Gitta Merrill (deceased). They studied for the bar for a week on Nancy’s boat in the Oakland Harbor.

Jay works for Celanese, a Fortune 500 company based in Dallas, Texas. Jay is Vice President and Deputy General Counsel for one of Celanese’s two divisions – the Materials Solutions Core. This division produces plastics for manufacturing purposes. For example, your car contains 9½ pounds of Celanese plastic pellets. It also produces materials for 90% of the world’s orthopedic implants and pacemakers. Over the years since graduation, Jay also worked for Motschiedler, Michaelides, Wishon, Brewer & Ryan, LLP, Mercer Advisors, Honeywell International, and Bell Helicopters. “Going to law school was one of the best decisions in my life. There has never been a better financial investment. I love being in-house and part of a team. Lawyers are incredibly valued by business leaders because they don’t jump to conclusions. They take a problem apart to examine its components.”

Kris started working in the legal field at the age of 16 with Kahn, Soares & Conway. She then decided to be a legal secretary, then became a paralegal in 1988. In 1993, she joined in establishing the Dooley & Herr firm and set her sights on law school. She completed the three-year program while working 50 hours a week and promptly passed the bar. She continued working with Dooley & Herr as an Associate. To keep life from becoming boring, in 1999, she gave birth to triplets. Six years ago, as her children were entering their high school years, she opened a satellite office of the firm in Hanford. Her practice consists of trust litigation, estate planning, wills, trusts and probate, conservatorships, and adoptions as well as a wide variety of transactional work. As to law school, Kris remembers late night studying with her best law school compadre, Melissa White. The two of them did cartwheels in the parking lot when Professor Artenian posted their passing grades in Remedies, as it meant their law school days were done! Kris sits on the Board of Directors of CASA of Kings County.

Rhea got a taste for how the law positively impacts people when she was working as a sign language interpreter and was exposed to the Americans with Disabilities Act. That triggered an interest in law and she completed the Paralegal Program at SJCL. After working a few years as a paralegal, then taking time to focus on raising children, she embarked on law school. She did an internship with the Fifth District Court of Appeal, then clerked during her last year at the same firm where she has worked as an attorney for almost ten years. Her practice areas include civil litigation, with a focus on research and writing, and business and estate planning. “I loved law school. I enjoyed the collaborative environment, and meeting people from different backgrounds, all focused on the same goal.”

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.

Brooke was exploring career options as an undergraduate when Doug Noll’s description of his mediation practice intrigued her. During law school, she clerked with Cornwell & Sample, but upon passing the bar in 2005, she decided she need more intensive litigation experience. Brooke worked with the Madera District Attorney’s Office for five years. She then spent three years in the civil arena with Jacobson, Hanson, Najarian & McQuillan. In 2014 she moved to the Child Support Office of Madera County, and ultimately in 2015, back to the Madera District Attorney’s Office. She prosecutes all felonies occurring in the mountain areas of Madera County – from car thefts to murders. “The first year of law school was awful, but I made the greatest of friends and survived.”

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.”

Matthew went to law school to effect a positive change in his community. During law school, he clerked with William Delaney doing plaintiff’s Workers Compensation work. During his fourth year, he joined Yarra Law Group where he continued as an Associate for a year after passing the bar exam. In October of 2018, he moved to Lozano Smith. Matthew represents several municipalities, primarily the City of Clovis and the County of Madera, in various capacities including civil litigation, land use issues, contracts, and code enforcement cases. “Law school was a lot harder than I thought it would be. But the faculty were always available and helpful, especially Professor Kucera. I survived law school and now enjoy serving my community through my current practice.”

Connie first practiced with Weiss, Martin, Salinas & Hearst. In 2009 she joined the Fresno office of Klein, DeNatale, Goldner where she became a partner. Her practice was a variety of employment and business litigation. In 2016, she moved to Parker, Kern, Nard & Wenzel, continuing with business litigation and Workers’ Compensation defense. Connie loves that one is never at a standstill as a lawyer. “You are always learning and growing.” As to law school, she remembers the excitement of competing in Moot Court and allowing her nerdy side to flourish editing other people’s writing in Law Review.

As a kid, Shanna lived next to Robert Piacente (’92). He told her that he gets paid to argue and she loved that idea. In high school and college, she competed for her schools’ Mock Trial teams and never wanted to leave the courtroom. When her brother was shot and killed near their childhood home, it cemented her decision to go to law school. While in law school, she worked full-time for Sawl Law Group and coached college Mock Trial. Before leaving to study for the bar, Sawl Law Group moved her into what would be her attorney office so they were sure she would return. She did and she loves it. Shanna handles personal injury and criminal defense cases, including three jury trials in the last year. A murder trial is on the horizon. “I spent a good portion of the first year of law school figuring out what an outline was. After that, I just wanted to get out as fast as I could so I could get into the courtroom.”

Devon interned for Madera Superior Court Judge Moffat while a student at CSUF and knew immediately she wanted to pursue a career in law.  She worked as a paralegal at McCormick & Barstow while in law school and was immediately hired there as an associate upon passing the bar exam.  In November of 2018, she became a partner with Whitney Thompson & Jeffcoach, a firm where five of the seven partners are women.  Devon has always specialized in business litigation defense and professional liability.  She teaches Pre-Trial Civil Litigation at SJCL.

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.

Before law school, Robert was a Registered Investment Advisor, working with clients and their lawyers. He found himself drawn to the legal side of the work. His mother, Judith Wright, was already enrolled at SJCL, so he joined her. Judy opened the Law Office of Judy A. Wright upon her graduation and Robert joined her immediately upon his. Their practice has been trusts and estates. Judy and their associate handle trust administration, probate, and any court appearances needed. Robert focusses on estate tax planning and advanced trusts. Robert remembers Professor Purvis grilling him using the Socratic Method. He also remembers “how happy I was to move to the new building in Clovis.”

Brittaney worked with special needs children when she was employed by Visalia Unified School District. During law school, she continued in that field interning with Fagen, Friedman, & Fulfrost LLP. Upon graduation she joined Lozano Smith LLP, representing school districts in parent requests for due process, as well as pursuing parents who refuse to allow the school district to provide the services their children need. Brittaney feels it is crucial for law students to recognize they need to make a commitment to devoting the time required to succeed in law school.

Catarina practices real estate, bankruptcy, and family law. She opened her own firm in 2009, following the financial crisis. During that time, Catarina saw a need for helping those who would not otherwise receive representation by assisting those who were struggling with their finances, facing foreclosure, and just making ends meet. From there, she expanded her practice to handling eviction and family law matters. Her plan was a temporary one, but she soon became very busy and expanded her offices to include Clovis and Madera. Catarina continues to credit the relationships she made at SJCL for helping the continued success of her practice.

Tracy worked for about 9 years with Lang, Richert & Patch, ultimately as a partner. Six years as the Compliance Officer for Valley Children’s Hospital followed. She left Valley Children’s for a short period of time, working at Walter & Wilhelm Law Group for about 2 ½ years, focusing on health care and employment law. In July of 2015, she returned to Valley Children’s as the Deputy General Counsel and handles the hospital’s litigation, as well as employment, contract, and risk management issues. Tracy remembers her great study groups and the small class sizes at SJCL, but she still has nightmares of it being exam time for a class she didn’t remember taking. (Sound familiar?)

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.

Since every business and profession is governed by law, Feras went to law school to get a versatile degree that would give him legal knowledge applicable to any career. He was in healthcare when he started law school. When he graduated he realized that healthcare was where his heart was, so he stayed in a management capacity at Kaiser Permanente, soon being promoted to Director of Operations. A decade later he became Chief Operations Officer for Livingston Community Health, a health clinic system based in Merced, providing primary care services including Adult, Pediatric, OB/GYN, Behavioral Health, and Dental Services. During his tenure the system has grown from six sites to soon to be nine. “As COO, I’m privileged to oversee all aspects of our operations. My law degree has played a critical role in my professional advancement. My critical thinking skills, learning agility, and legal knowledge have made me valuable in leadership. I forged close friendships in law school and learned just how much grit I had in me.”

During law school, Bill had internships at two insurance defense firms, but in 1999 he discovered he loved criminal defense, and began working with the Kapetan Brothers Law Firm. In 2001, he carried that same love of criminal defense through 12 years with Kahn, Soares & Conway, then nearly four years as the Managing Partner of the Hanford office of Hammerschmidt Broughton. In January of 2017, Bill opened his own practice in Hanford, still focusing on criminal defense. Bill remembers the comradery of the students and faculty at SJCL. “Everyone was genuinely trying to pull each other up.” Oh, and the little incident with the Welsh flag on Tom Jones’ birthday.

Sarah and Jarrett met in the Introduction to Legal Studies class at SJCL in summer of 2012 and married in 2016. Sarah began work with the Tulare County Public Defender’s Office after her first year of law school and now handles felonies for the Office. Of Jarrett, she says “He has a great rapport with the kids in the Juvenile Court and the judges like, respect, and trust him.” Jarrett also works for the Tulare County Public Defender in the Juvenile Division. Of Sarah, he says “She has an unmatched work ethic, is highly organized, and when people see her in court, they immediately want her to be their lawyer.” Both say, “We fight for the people society has given up on.” Both were published in the San Joaquin Agricultural Law Review and subsequently served on the Editorial Board.

Mary went to law school because she was convinced it was the one way to make a difference. Upon graduation, she worked for Tom Campagne for 13 years, then briefly with Walter & Wilhelm, before joining Lozano Smith in January of 2016. Mary serves as the City Attorney for multiple cities. She also represents special districts (mosquito abatement and water districts) throughout California, necessitating a lot of travel. Mary is an adjunct professor of multiple subjects at the University of Phoenix – ethics, leadership, management, negotiations, and business law. Mary remembers her fun study group – Trina Root and Ken Jorgensen. She loved Real Property with Professor Perring and Constitutional Law with Professor Purvis. She became good friends with Joan Lassley and even traveled in a tour group with her to Europe in 2016.

Michelle holds both a Juris Doctor degree from SJCL and Master of Industrial and Labor Relations from Cornell University, the latter of which she attained when she discovered a passion for Human Resources. Two days after she took the California bar exam in July 1998 (which she passed), she drove cross country to New York to attend Cornell. For 20 years Michelle has held numerous administrative and management positions within the Chevron Corporation. In the first three years there, she was the Executive Resources and Leadership Development Consultant, HR Business Partner, and Expatriate Administration and Development Specialist. She developed and implemented the design and administration of the Chevron Contribution Plan. She has served as HR Advisor in Luanda, Angola and General Manager of Human Resources in the Asia South Business Unit in Bangkok, Thailand. Michelle now serves as Vice President of Human Resources, Downstream and Chemicals, of Chevron. She is also Director of the Chevron Federal Credit Union.

David’s interest in law came from his father, who was an attorney. He kept the idea of following his father’s footsteps in mind as he tried out other, less satisfying areas of endeavor. After enrolling in law school, David clerked at the public defender’s office and various civil litigation offices in town, including his father’s criminal defense practice. Eventually David joined friend and fellow classmate Ian Wieland at Sagaser, Watkins & Wieland, where the specialty is labor and employment defense. David’s practice includes representing employers in civil cases, before the Labor Commissioner, and other forums. David likes the fact that many of his colleagues at the firm are fellow SJCL alumni who became friends in law school well before they became co-workers.

Gary immigrated to the U.S. from England in his late teens and served in the US Navy as a member of the exclusive Triple Threat Company. Upon his honorable discharge from the Navy, Gary entered college and worked as an investigator for several law firms. His investigations assisted in the dismissal of hundreds of cases. He then enrolled in law school where he received awards for academic excellence and gained accolades in both State and National Moot Court competitions. Gary joined his father’s firm upon passing the Bar Exam in 2012 and has practiced Criminal Defense ever since.

Alicia began interning with the Dias Law Firm in Hanford in May of 2008. She became an associate there December 1, 2010, fulfilling the statement to her parents as a young child that she wanted to be a lawyer. She did transactional work and trust, business, and contract litigation, as well as some administrative responsibilities. In September of 2017, Alicia became the Law Library Director at SJCL, obtained her Masters in Library Science in December of 2017 and at the same time, became Associate Academic Dean. She taught and organized Legal Methods and now teaches Civil Procedure. Her other major tasks are counseling and assessment.

Michael always planned to go to law school. While in law school he clerked for Quinlan, Kershaw & Fanucchi, LLP and remained with them for two years after passing the bar exam. From June of 2014 to August of 2019, he worked with Frame Matsomoto & Coelho LLP representing agricultural entities in transactional, arbitration, and tort matters, notably the “Cuties” litigation. Effective August 26, 2019, Michael became Legal Counsel for Table Mountain Casino, pursuing the in-house counsel role he had always desired. His work includes insuring the Casino is compliant with all California and Federal gaming laws while protecting tribal sovereignty. Michael is very proud of his additional current role as President of the Padrinos of Valley Children’s Healthcare (Padrinos Guild), raising money for the Hospital. Michael, his wife Rachel, brother-in-law Mario Gonzalez, and mother-in law Leah Cole are all graduates of SJCL.

During law school Scott interned at the Fifth District Court of Appeal and the Federal Defender’s Office. He was clerking with Cuimmo & Associates when he learned he had passed the bar. He was acting as second chair during a homicide trial. The judge suspended the proceedings long enough to swear Scott in and the trial proceeded with Scott officially a lawyer. Thereafter, Scott worked with Gilmore, Wood, Vinnard, & Magnus for five years doing civil litigation and appellate work. When his wife, Teresa Petty-Jones, needed help with her practice, Scott worked with her for another five years. Currently he represents low-income wage earners who have denied compensation, trying cases as well as handling appeals throughout the appellate process. “I loved law school and l love my current work helping people.”

Sengthiene attained both a Bachelors’ and Masters’ degree in psychology before enrolling in law school. As a law student she worked full time as a paralegal and advocate at Central California Legal Services, with a focus on better health care and language access for the poor. Continuing her desire to provide community service, Sengthiene’s practice is mainly Social Security Disability and SSI Law, which helps many who are homeless get off the streets and receive the services they are due. Sengthiene says 95% of her firm’s cases are SSI Disability, which she says are difficult, but life-changing when they succeed. “It’s very gratifying helping people live better lives.”

For two years after graduation, Daren worked with Wanger, Jones, Helsley in business and environmental litigation. He then returned to the family business where he oversees manufacturing operations as well as providing legal advice. His legal work includes reviewing contracts, litigation, and providing input on regulatory issues. Daren says he had a blast in law school, particularly in activities such as law review and moot court.

Raj was working with the Fresno County Family Behavioral Health Court when observation of those proceedings and conversations with Judge Gottlieb convinced him to enroll in law school. Upon graduation he remained with the County for 1 ½ years as a Senior Staff Analyst in the Registrar’s Office, using his legal skills in election law. Thereafter, he began his career in legal practice with Grancell Stander, then worked with Bradford & Barthell, learning Workers’ Compensation law. In March of 2017 he accepted an offer to open the Fresno office of Albert & Mackenzie. “Law school helped me grow as a person. If you put your mind to it, you can get anything done.”

Flora wanted a career to be of service to her community. Her first goal was to be a college French teacher, but there was a year wait to enter the program for a teaching credential at CSUF. In the interim, she studied linguistics, the Theatre of the Absurd, and ultimately the Paralegal Program at SJCL to attain a skill to support her graduate education. After working as a paralegal for a year, her husband suggested she undertake something that would use her full potential to better serve. Law school followed while she continued to work as a paralegal/law clerk, then with Lang, Richert & Patch. Upon graduation, Flora began her career as a Research Attorney with the Fresno County Superior Court. After a brief child-raising hiatus, Flora did contract work. In 1998, she opened her own office, handling probate, estate planning, and conservatorship matters. As to law school, “I remember all the love – from friends and professors. It was all a big family.”

Ron first worked with Sheri Mount (’91) until opening his own practice in 2011, doing exclusively family law cases. In June of 2017, Ron became the Chief Child Support Attorney for the Department of Child Support Services of Fresno County and is very supportive of the Department’s mission. Ron manages 9 attorneys who handle all aspects of child support cases, from filing of the Summons and Complaint to enforcement of Judgments. The Department typically is handling 60,000 cases. In 2018, they collected $90 million in support for children. 

Jennifer became interested in law school after her father was injured on the job but had difficulty finding an attorney who would work with him because of a language barrier. Both before and during law school, she worked full-time, balancing work, school, and raising a family. She worked for the Law Office of Howk & Downing for a total of 8 years. She clerked with the Visalia District Attorney’s Office and the Fresno City Attorney’s Office. The latter offered her a full-time position the day after she was sworn in. Jennifer is in the Code Enforcement Department, trying to work with property owners by encouraging voluntary code compliance and initiating legal proceedings focusing on the worst violators of housing health and safety laws. She loves the work because it makes a difference in the community, insuring tenants are not living in sub-standard conditions. Jennifer states, “Law school wouldn’t be the same without the love and support I received from my husband, family, and friends.”

Tim clerked for David Mugridge while in law school, expecting to become a criminal defense attorney, but a fellow SJCL grad persuaded him to join a workers’ compensation defense firm. Having developed that expertise, in January of 2015 he joined Berry, Smith & Bartell, PC doing plaintiff’s workers’ compensation. He felt that gave him a great opportunity for growth. He finds it extremely satisfying to help families who are in truly dire situations. Tim worked throughout law school. “Having so many responsibilities, taught me discipline and a work ethic.”

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!

A.J. completed the Police Academy in 2009 just as the recession hit. He applied for law enforcement jobs throughout the state, without success. He had planned to go to law school when his law enforcement career ended, but then law school became the plan. While awaiting bar results, he worked at Yrulegui & Roberts, becoming an Associate when he got his ticket. A.J. has worked with Yrulegui & Roberts for 5 ½ years, becoming a Partner in December of 2018. His work is exclusively Workers Compensation defense. A.J. feels he was fortunate to join this firm, as it has experienced significant growth. A.J. is married to Faith Driscoll (13’). “My job allows for work/life balance and a sense of satisfaction, a life with two full-time working attorneys with small children gets very interesting.”

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.

Steve was a consulting engineer but wanted to find a career he would enjoy for the rest of his professional life. While attending law school and after admission to the Bar, he worked for the Kings River Conservation District for five years as their Deputy General Manager of Water Resources. In November of 2014, he started work at the James Irrigation District, a 40-square mile special district in western Fresno County, and now serves as its General Manager. His legal duties include defending the district’s historic water rights, monitoring federal water supply contract issues, representing the district in the Federal Court of Claims, and managing legal work performed by outside counsel. “My combination of an engineering and legal background helps to make our expectations of others clear and avoid unnecessary conflicts.” “I have fond memories of all the professors and my classmates. I enjoy how the law constantly changes and evolves.”

Lisa always planned to go to law school, but her military career using her engineering degree came first. She was the Base Engineer for the Fresno Air National Guard, responsible for maintenance and construction at the Fresno Airport facilities. She retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. After law school, she joined Bolen Fransen Sawyers, where her transactional practice focuses on secured lending, real estate, and general business, for a variety of for agricultural and commercial entities. Lisa serves on the Board of the AgLenders Society of California, for which she has taught a number of educational seminars. She also serves on the Supervisory Committee of the Educational Employees Credit Union. “I enjoyed getting back into the learning mode in law school, something I had been longing for. The diversity of the student population – all ages, from all walks of life – added to the experience.”

Having litigated cases as an insurance defense attorney, in 2000, Warren began exclusively representing plaintiffs in personal injury actions, including wrongful death, catastrophic injury, medical malpractice, and wrongful termination. He has litigated over 55 jury trials to verdict throughout California, including nine verdicts in excess of $1 million. He has been named one of the Top 100 Super Lawyers in Northern California every year since 2009. In 2008 he was awarded the Consumer Attorneys of California Trial Lawyer of the Year. In 2017 he received the America Board of Trial Lawyers of California Trial Lawyer of the Year. Warren is one of only a handful of lawyers in California ever to have received both awards. Warren has always said that SJCL gave him the opportunity to fulfill his dreams.

With his degree in Neuroscience, Jaskaran worked as an EMT but saw law school as a way to help others and improve himself. During law school he clerked for the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, the Fresno County Counsel’s Office, and Webb Law Group. He also externed with the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California. He served as the Executive Editor of the San Joaquin Agricultural Law Review. Upon admission to the bar, he joined Griswold, LaSalle, Cobb, Dowd & Gin LLP in Hanford practicing employment and business law and representing public entities. In April of 2019, he joined Bradford & Barthel, focusing on Workers’ Compensation which combines his passion for medicine and law. As to law school, Jaskaran enjoyed every bit of it. “Professor Purvis’ Constitutional Law course and Professor Cheney’s Criminal Procedure course were tough, but they really improved my understanding of the law and prepared me for the bar.”

Melissa served as a Deputy District Attorney for seven years. In 2005, she joined the Fresno City Attorney’s Office as the Legal Advisor to the Police Department. For six years, she was on call 24/7. In 2009, she began to do some in-house counsel work for her brother, owner of Trinity Fruit and fell in love with general counsel work. She even got her broker’s license and opened Valley Harvest Properties in order to assist with real estate transactions. In 2016, Scott Leonard persuaded her to serve as Vice President and General Counsel for Guarantee Real Estate. Now she works as general counsel to both entities as well as serving on the Board of Trustees of San Joaquin College of Law. In law school, her favorite class was Torts with Dean Pearson. She will never forget Mrs. Palsgraf and that scale.

In the late 1980’s, Rose immigrated to the United States from Armenia and was fascinated by the TV show, “L.A. Law.” From then on she did everything possible to become a lawyer. Upon graduation from SJCL, she opened her own practice for about two and a half years. In 2004, she joined Wilkins, Drolshagen & Czeshinski LLP. In early 2018, she joined Borton Petrini where she focusses on insurance defense, real estate, estate planning, and business litigation. She is grateful for the connections she established with other law students during her three years at SJCL. With her J.D. she was able to take the Real Estate Broker’s exam. For the last fifteen years she has owned and operated her real estate business. Currently, Rose is the Treasurer of the SJCL Alumni Association.

Ambra supervises 170 people providing services to homeless and foster children, social work services at school sites, and oversees legal issues related to attendance and student discipline. “It is a great blend of administrative law and social work. Working, with five children, I could not have made it through law school without the support I got from SJCL.”

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.

Born and raised in Fresno, Richard attended local schools, including Bullard High School and Fresno State. As a result, he was friends with Scott Kinney, and Scott’s father, criminal law attorney, Ernest Kinney (’75) and thus was a major influence on him practicing criminal law. In law school, he clerked with civil firm Parishan, Renburg, Crossman and Harvey, and later, the District Attorney’s Office, work he much preferred. After being swore in, in late ’95, Richard worked with Attorney Steve Smith, then Attorney Robert Wynne (’89) until joining the District Attorney’s Office in fall of 1996. A year later, he formed a partnership with Robert Wynne, handling criminal defense matters, until summer of 2000 when Richard opened his own office. Richard practices exclusively criminal law. He is on the Federal Criminal Justice Act Panel, the Special Circumstances Homicide Panel for Fresno and Madera Counties, and handles all State and Federal Matters. Richard is grateful for the opportunity that attending SJCL has afforded and its positive impacts on his life.

After many years working as a Real Estate Broker, Lance entered law school planning to practice real estate law. In addition to his extensive focus on real estate, his practice includes business and civil litigation, probate and wills, personal injury, and business and joint venture formations. “In law school you see crazy hypos (hypotheticals) designed to make you think differently – to see both sides of the story.  Real Property Professor Sally Perring covered fine points of law saying, ‘You will never see this in practice.’ I see them every day!”

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.”

Travis came to law school looking for a challenge and ultimately, satisfying work. While at SJCL he interned at the Fresno Public Defender’s Office. When he graduated, they offered him the first position they had available. Travis has worked in misdemeanors, general felonies, and domestic violence cases. He currently works with a grant assignment trying to remove barriers to employment for individuals who have been on welfare. This includes helping people to expunge offenses and discussing topics that focus on life skills to avoid violations of the law in the future. Travis remembers law school as STRESS, but he made multiple friendships that he hopes will last for the rest of his life.

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.

Kathy worked in the State Attorney General’s Office in Fresno while in law school and awaiting bar results. In December of 1999, she was hired as an attorney. She became Supervising Deputy Attorney General in Fresno in 2009, then moved to the same position in the Sacramento Office in 2016. She does primarily criminal appellate and federal habeas corpus cases. She has argued a number of cases before the California Supreme Court and the federal Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal. Kathy taught first year Research & Writing, Advanced Research & Writing, and Moot Court at San Joaquin College of Law.

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.”

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.”

In 2003, Gary was furloughed from his pilot position at United Airlines. Gary was an associate with McCormick, Barstow and then Powell & Pool. In April of 2009, he opened his own practice which evolved into Lawvex, an innovative trust and estates law firm with six partners. Lawvex provides a flexible and balanced work environment where partners are able to work remotely and be accountable for excellent client service instead of billable hours. “Lawvex is about addressing the frustrations and unmet needs in our industry both for clients and our partner attorneys with a fresh approach to both.”

Ian was active in politics but was inspired to go to law school in part by his father, Hon. Charles Wieland (’83). Ian worked with Atkinson, Adelson, Loya, Ruud and Romo during his last year of law school and accepted an Associate position there upon passing the bar. In September of 2013, Howard Sagaser and Ian opened their firm. Cal Watkins shortly joined thereafter. The firm and Ian represent private and public sector employers in all aspects of labor relations and employment law matters, including employment discrimination, wrongful termination, harassment, retaliation, labor relations, union matters, class and representative actions, administrative agencies, and wage and hour. Ian regularly advises employers regarding human resources policy matters and employee relations issues. Ian’s wife, Allie Wieland (’12) also works in the firm. “We went to law school together. We took the bar together. Now, we practice together.”

Rick was working as a court reporter in Municipal Court when he decided to give law a try himself. Upon graduating, he worked for five years in insurance defense and then in 1994, he joined Ninnis & Cribbs handling Workers’ Compensation applicants’ cases. In 1998 he became a Certified Workers’ Compensation Specialist. The Monge Law Firm opened in 2001, doing exclusively applicants’ cases. “This field is a good fit for me because it has wide variety and I enjoy helping working individuals.” Rick worked full-time as a court reporter during law school – in court all day, producing transcripts during non-court hours, and going to law school at night. “It was four years of 16-hour days, but I’m glad I did it. I certainly learned good time management skills and made many good friends.”

Bill enrolled at SJCL soon after returning from his second deployment as a Navy strike-fighter pilot in the Vietnam War; and continued flying as a Naval Aviator through law school. He clerked as a certified law student for two firms and tried several jury trials. His early years of private practice included use of his aerospace engineering background in products liability and aviation law, other plaintiff's and defense litigation, and eminent domain law. He then served as Assistant City Attorney for five years handling condemnation trial and appellate work, together with land use and environmental litigation. In the mid-80’s he joined the Motschiedler firm where he has remained for 32 years. He received a Presidential appointment in 2004 and served as a member of the National Veterans Business Development Corporation. Currently he represents agricultural, commercial, and industrial enterprises whose properties are being taken and damaged by the high speed rail project. Bill also farms red sweet cherries on the Kings River. He and Linda, married 48 years, have three children and five grandchildren. At SJCL, he enjoyed the comradery among students, winning the Moot Court with study partners Gary Austin and John Dicks, and studying under the exemplary mentors of the Central Valley legal community, including the late Hollis Best and Oliver Wanger.

Gary always wanted to go to law school. A job offer in his area of expertise, agricultural lending, with Bank of the Sierra, coupled with the ability to attend law school at night at SJCL, brought him home to the Valley and family. His contacts in the ag industry routinely told him Hal Bolen was the person with whom to work, so he applied, and has worked with Bolen Fransen Sawyers LLP ever since. Among other things in a busy transactional practice, Gary prepares the documents for major agricultural loans, his largest having been for $210 million. “I loved every minute of law school. All the professors were unique personalities. The classes were small and everyone helped each other to succeed.”

Jonathan worked as a legal assistant for a Social Security Disability lawyer while he attended college and law school. After passing the bar exam, he worked as an Associate practicing before Administrative Law Judges for the Social Security Administration. In 2013, Jonathan opened his own practice at the insistence of his best friend Leo Roman, who now runs the office. His practice emphasizes Social Security appeals and federal civil litigation. Jonathan has three offices - Fresno, Stockton, and Bakersfield – and is working on opening a fourth in San Francisco. Jonathan values the friendships he made in law school – naming Scott, Alexia, and Pam – who he feels were crucial in his final decision to go solo.

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.”

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.”

Delta Dental of California and its affiliated companies is the largest Delta Dental member company, covering 17 states and 30 million enrollees. Yoriko supports strategic business development, pursuing initiatives to provide dental services for both individuals and businesses. Yoriko says law school changed the trajectory of her life and she strives to help others find the same sense of fulfillment she has found.

Todd began his career as Associate In-House Counsel for National American Life Insurance Co. in regulatory compliance in 1988. In late 1990, he moved to Hawaii becoming Chief Operations Officer of HMAA, a mutual insurer. In 1996, he returned to the mainland as CEO of NevadaCare and Summerland Life Insurance Companies in Las Vegas, NV. In 2007 Todd accepted a role with Longs Drug Stores to fully develop its Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. Upon acquisition of Longs by CVS Health in 2008, as president of its SilverScript subsidiary, Todd leads the largest such plan in the United States. “Law school was the toughest, most rewarding experience of my life and I apply it every day in the heavily-regulated environment of CVS Health.”

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.”

Adam began working in the legal field with Ted Forrest at the age of 15. He worked at Ted’s firms, Forrest & McLaughlin and then Forrest, Henderson, Sloan & Davis, until Ted died when Adam was 21. Under Ted’s guidance, Adam completed the SJCL Paralegal Program. After Ted’s death, Adam worked at Dowling, Aaron & Keeler for two years and then joined McCormick, Barstow, Sheppard, Wayte & Carruth. Adam also worked at SJCL as an instructor in the Paralegal Program. As Adam was completing his Masters in International Relations at Fresno State, he was contemplating law school. Jan answered that question for him when she told him: “You are starting law school this fall.” Upon graduation, Adam continued working with McCormick Barstow for five years. Adam joined Baradat & Paboojian in 2013 and became a partner in 2016. Adam handles mostly plaintiff personal injury cases. As to law school, he remembers winning Best Oral Advocate in the Moot Court Competition and thinking that Ted would be proud. He also enjoyed competing in the Traynor Appellate Moot Court Competition on behalf of SJCL and serving as Editor-in-Chief of the San Joaquin Agricultural Law Review.

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.

Jim’s career focus has been defending public entities and their employees. He has been involved in many high-profile public entity cases and is considered one of the top litigation practitioners in the Fresno area. His clients have included elected officials and public figures, such as judges, district attorneys, chiefs of police, and administrators. He has served as a mediator, arbitrator, and judge pro tem. Jim is admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, and all California courts. He is a member of multiple organizations, and has often served in leadership capacities. These include the Federal Bar Association, the American Board of Trial Advocates, the Public Agency Risk Managers Association, the Defense Research Institute, and the Litigation Section of the State Bar of California. Jim has served on educational panels for SJCL and is a donor to SJCL. Jim conducts himself with courtesy and dignity at all times.

Diana was appointed Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency and Chair of the Board of Covered California in 2011. Before that, she served as president and chief executive officer of the California Children’s Hospital Association, and as general counsel and vice president of Valley Children’s Hospital. Her appointment to the state’s top administrative post ended with the end of Governor Brown’s term, at which time Diana says she will reflect on what comes next. “I enjoyed SJCL’s academic rigor, but I really appreciated the pragmatic approach to using the law to solve problems.”

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.

Peter wanted to be an attorney from the day in the 5th grade he saw Harold Parichan arguing in court. During law school, he clerked for Judge Crocker at the United States District Court. Very shortly after graduation, he opened his own firm, doing Chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy petitions. From the outset Peter’s goal was to help people who had gotten themselves into difficult situations. He estimates he has handled more than 10,000 consumer bankruptcy cases, but he never intends to retire because “I love what I do.” Peter commuted from the family dairy in Dos Palos during law school. During the commutes home, he inevitably ruminated on the rules just introduced in class. Peter feels that was the foundation of the good memory for specific points of law he has always possessed.

Alex worked in the apparel industry in L.A. for a few years, but felt she was not really doing anything to help people, so she enrolled in law school. During law school, her passion for criminal defense was born. She clerked for the Fresno County Public Defender, the Sawl Law Group, and Robert Wynne, then with Margarita Martinez-Baly while awaiting bar results. As a lawyer, she worked first with the Public Defender and now with Nuttall Coleman & Drandell doing criminal defense. As to law school, she remembers hiding in classrooms with her study buddies - studying, eating snacks, and writing practice exams. She also remembers taking her dog, Wilma, for long walks during law school as a way to relieve stress.

Robert attributes the discipline and experience he gained during his first two careers in business and real estate to help him breeze through law school.  He uses his 40 years of hands-on experience and insider knowledge to great effect in matters relating to his practice areas of real estate, business, and civil litigation.  “Becoming an attorney teaches you new ways of thinking.”  

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.

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.

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.”

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.”

David works with the law firm of Fagen Friedman & Fulfrost a statewide education law firm. He has been the managing partner of the Fresno office since 2010. His practice focuses primarily on labor and employment matters and advising school districts and governing boards on governance issues. Prior to joining Fagen Friedman & Fulfrost, David worked at another education law firm as a paralegal, law clerk, and attorney. He recalls his first day of law school began in Hanford where he was providing support for a civil trial and that he rushed back to Fresno to make it on time to Torts class. “It was challenging to work full-time and go to school, but I’m glad I did it. I have many positive memories from that time.”

Jessica was attracted to law after competing on her high school’s Mock Trial team and later serving as an attorney coach for the team. She enjoys the challenges associated with the study and practice of law, as well as being able to help those who may not know their rights or how to exercise those rights effectively. She clerked for Hammerschmidt-Broughton during law school and while awaiting Bar results. While there, she worked on a variety of complex, high profile criminal defense cases in both the State and Federal forums. She joined Parker, Kern, Nard & Wenzel as an associate attorney upon being admitted to the Bar in 2015. She currently represents employers, insurance companies and TPA’s in the defense of a variety of WC Insurance, Employment and some cross-over in Civil Litigation matters. She says this about law school: “I enjoyed my time at San Joaquin College of Law. It was a small, supportive community of diverse, but like-minded/goal-oriented individuals. There was always someone available to help if needed. I appreciated that the professors had real-world experience as attorneys and judges. Learning about cases they have handled over the course of their careers better helped us understand the real-world applications of complex issues and legal theories.”

Steven admired his uncle, George Alfieris, who was a personal injury lawyer who helped many people. Steven worked for 17 years as Vice President/Special Counsel for Pappas Telecasting, helping it to grow from 10 to 27 television stations. Thereafter, he worked as the General Counsel for Stamoules Produce. In 2017, Steven joined the Dias Law Firm, Inc., handling business, employment and real estate matters. “I love establishing and winning the economic arguments for damages in High-Speed Rail cases. It is akin to the evidentiary proofs one makes in personal injury cases – compensating for a loss. Michael Dias and I ensure that the defendant land-owners are made whole.” Last month, Steve launched an app for smart phones called “ToProovIt” to help individuals document harassment, discrimination and retaliation. The ToProovIt app provides time-stamped reports and stores the information in the cloud until the user is ready to go to human resources or their attorney. “I appreciate my legal education now more than ever.”

Upon graduation, Anne worked for 10 years with the Fresno County Counsel’s Office as the Senior Health Counsel. She represented Valley Medical Center and the Fresno County Health Department in any issues they faced. In early 1997, Anne moved to Iowa where she ran the Iowa Public Health Department’s first law and policy office. Anne is currently the Chief of Operations for CENUSA Bioenergy at Iowa State University managing a $25 million research program to restore perennial grasses to the Corn Belt for use in biofuels and bioproducts. Anne said she had to work harder at law school than at anything she had done before. It was frightening but also terribly exciting!

Upon graduation, Michelle worked at Lang, Richert, and Patch and then for Riley Walter. She then operated her own practice for 8 years, representing trustees in bankruptcy proceedings and doing creditor collections. In 2010, she joined the Small Business Administration. The mission of the SBA is to help small businesses grow, a mission that is near and dear to Michelle. The SBA has delivered millions of loans, loan guarantees, loans to purchase commercial real estate, and other assistance to small businesses. As to law school, Michelle says “I absolutely loved law school, although it was incredibly challenging (and I was often sleep-deprived!). It makes me so happy that SJCL has become a family affair, with my sister Suzanne Golden (Class of 2001) and my daughter Jennifer Oleksa (Class of 2016) being proud alumni.”

Greg was always interested in law, stemming in part from his mother’s work as a paralegal. After graduation, he worked in Fresno for a year before joining the Los Angeles firm of Green & Shinee in 1991. His practice there was labor law, primarily representing entities in the public sector including the Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriffs’ Association. In 2001 he joined Malmquist, Fields & Camastra doing Workers’ Compensation defense. In May of 2017, the Tanner Firm opened representing mostly Workers’ Compensation applicants and some employment law cases. Greg is also developing a mediation practice.

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.”

The Wright family was already involved in financial planning. They (Judy and son, Robert) went to law school to add estate planning expertise to help their clients. Judy opened the law office immediately upon passing the bar in November of 1997. The practice is limited to drafting wills, trusts, and ancillary agreements, as well as probate. “The best part of our practice is fixing things before they become a problem. We get to be proactive while most lawyers are limited to being reactive to a problem that already exists.” Judy remembers the wonderful change of environment when SJCL moved from the cramped quarters at the Shields and Bond building to the new building in Clovis.

Vong served on the Clovis Planning Commission for 10 years before becoming a member of the Clovis City Council in 2017. The time he spent on the commission helped him realize he wanted to make his career in the non-profit sector. Vong has also served for the past five years as Solar Director of Fresno’s Economic Opportunities Commission where he oversees a grant totaling $10.5 million. “Civic service is important, we need more people to see that.”

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.