Alumni Success

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.”

Rob and his fellow staff attorneys are responsible for all legal issues involving the Fresno County Office of Education, including personnel and employment issues, facilities, board governance, and contracts. His Department also provides legal services to local school districts. He has worked continuously in education law since graduation, seven years for Stroup and de Goede and over six years for Lozano Smith before joining the Fresno County Office of Education. Rob has just returned from the East Coast from which he worked remotely for five years. He said it was cold, cold, cold!

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.

Will was pursuing a Masters in Biology at CSUF when he heard of an attorney combining his science background with law. Will enjoyed the idea of a mixed disciplinary practice and the plan to go to law school was born. Upon graduation, Will first worked for the high-tech patent prosecution firm he had clerked for in law school. When that firm dissolved, Will joined Sierra IP Law. His practice now is much broader, including patent work, copyright and trademark cases, and trade secret and privacy protection. Will’s time was stretched to the limit between work and class in law school, but he says “I really hunkered down for bar review and it worked!”

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.

Richard was the Director of Transportation and Marketing Services for the California Grape & Tree Fruit League when he observed a labor law attorney in a packing house and was intrigued. He graduated in 1992, passed the bar, and immediately opened his own office in an entirely different area of law. Richard practices estate planning and estate and trust administration, while his wife, Susan Hemb (’04), now handles the family and bankruptcy law that helped begin the practice. Four years ago, they moved the practice to Old Town Clovis where they are quite happy. “Law school was a long hard four years. But by opening my own practice, throughout my professional life, I have never had to look for a job.”

During Law School Scott worked exclusively in the Criminal Defense field with an emphasis on Driving Under the Influence. Upon graduation, Scott worked under a Pro-Tem judge for a few years and then opened his own practice specializing in Driving Under the Influence cases. Upon reaching his 1,000th client, Scott plans to donate the entire retainer fee to a non-profit of his choosing that helps Fresno County fight against their ongoing substance abuse problems. Scott’s favorite quote from Zig Ziglar is, “You can have anything in life that you want if you are willing to help enough other people get what they want.”

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.

Courtney specializes in business transactions, government compliance, and start-up formations, but she is also involved in numerous pro bono groups and activities helping under-served organizations.  With her current focus on cannabis law, Courtney is filling a new and fast-growing niche.  “Whether an attorney is interested in criminal law, civil litigation, or transactional law, the cannabis industry certainly is providing plenty of opportunities.”

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.”

Dennis was already working for the Fresno Public Defender doing trials while in law school. Admitted in 1977, he formally became a Deputy Public Defender. In 1980, he moved to Tulare to join what is now Mederos, Soares, Ormonde & Rascon. His broad general practice initially included a lot of criminal trial defense, but has transitioned to transactional work and estate planning. Dennis has always been actively involved in the Tulare community including being Legal Counsel for the Tulare Chamber of Commerce and serving as President of the Tulare County Bar. Then he took the big step and ran for Tulare City Council, won in November 2018, and was immediately chosen by the Council as Vice Mayor.

Jeff has worked for 27 years now at the Griswold firm in Hanford. Initially, he emphasized civil litigation, but his practice transitioned to landlord-tenant, family law and business litigation as the makeup of the firm changed. Jeff also owns a Kings County real estate and property management business. Jeff believes that those who have attained a successful life in the Valley should give back, so he is a donor to West Hills Community College, California State University Fresno, and San Joaquin College of Law. He remembers the first year of law school as being mentally tough, but a good foundation for his career.

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.

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!

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.”

Mike’s service on a long, high-profile homicide jury convinced him to go to law school. During law school, he interned with the Fresno District Attorney’s Office. Upon passing the bar, he was immediately hired there. He handled homicide cases along with major financial crimes. In 2012, Mike opened his criminal defense practice, continuing to focus on real estate fraud, financial crimes, and serious felonies and murders. Mike worked 50-60 hours a week through law school, so he had to manage his time closely. During the first year, he briefed every case, which made the second, third, and fourth years easier.

David always wanted to be a lawyer but conducted his own civil engineering business until graduating from SJCL in 1992.  He initially was a sole practitioner until he joined then Dowling, Aaron & Keeler in April of 1999, where he became a shareholder and ultimately served as President of the firm for three years.  Since September of 2014, David has been an equity partner at Coleman & Horowitt, sitting on the Management Committee.  As Head of Litigation, he handles and supervises major business litigation.  David has served on the Board of Trustees of San Joaquin College of Law since June of 1999 and was one of the founding students of the San Joaquin Agricultural Law Review.

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.”

Dealing with legal issues arising during his time in the business world motivated Greg to want to learn more about law and contemplate a career change. He completed the Paralegal Program and acquired a position at Dowling Aaron as a Paralegal, specializing in civil litigation. When the firm needed a Firm Administrator, utilizing his prior business experience Greg stepped into that role. Upon admission to the bar Greg became an Associate with the firm. However, it was soon discovered he was still needed as a Firm Administrator and was persuaded to return to that position. Greg remembers his class approached law school as a team effort, helping and motivating each other to make it through.

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.”

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.

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.”

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.”

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.

According to Jo Anne’s mother, Jo Anne always said she was going to be a lawyer. Mom would confirm she always argued with her parents. During law school, Jo Anne clerked with Jory, Peterson, Watkins & Smith. Immediately upon passing the bar, she joined the Madera County Public Defender’s Office. “Every new lawyer should work with the D.A. or P.D. It teaches you everything you need to know about the practice of law.” Jo Anne then worked in civil litigation with Farley, Seng & DiSantos for a year before joining Goldman, Magdalin & Krikes, LLP in January 2004. Jo Anne’s practice is Workers’ Compensation defense with rare appellate work. Jo Anne’s first year was at the Shields building where the back of the building was affectionately known as the Wailing Wall, especially after finals. Jo Anne and her two children were part of the Lifetime show Dance Moms for three years 2013-2015, filming all over the country.

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.”

While attending law school, Stephanie continued to work full time, as well as raise her children. As a student she clerked at the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office. Upon passing the Bar she became Deputy District Attorney. In her current role at the Tulare County Counsel, Stephanie has the opportunity to work in a variety of practice areas including education, labor and employment, and civil litigation. She says she was lucky to make lifelong friends during her time at SJCL.

Andrea always had an interest in law in hope of making a difference to individuals and her community. This interest was reinforced during her service in the United States Navy. While in law school she clerked first with Hammerschmidt Broughton for a year assisting with criminal defense cases. During her last year of law school, she worked with Griswold, LaSalle, Cobb, Dowd, & Gin in municipal law. Upon graduation, she worked with Niklas Hugosson in real estate matters. In July of 2019, she joined the Dias Law Firm. Her focus there is civil litigation, but she also practices a significant amount of criminal defense. Her true passion is juvenile delinquency law which practice she hopes to develop. Law school was an incredibly busy time for Andrea. Her husband was deployed overseas most of the time, so she was effectively a single mother to their three children, working, AND going to law school. “I made some of the best friends of my life in law school.”

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.”

Jacob’s interest in law was born in his high school senior Government class where he was exposed to law and politics. During law school he clerked for several solo practitioners who specialized in criminal defense and plaintiff’s personal injury law, as well as at the Fresno City Attorney’s Office in municipal law. Upon graduation, Jacob worked briefly in a Workers’ Compensation defense firm. Then he was hired by a local civil litigation law firm where he worked exclusively on high exposure personal injury and labor and employment matters. The work involved complex litigation and extensive jury trials. There, Jacob developed his passion for plaintiff’s trial work. In 2007, Jacob opened the Law Office of Jacob J. Rivas. His work is 98% plaintiff’s personal injury, including vehicle, construction and industrial accident cases, sexual abuse complaints, and dog bites. Jacob remembers SJCL moving from Shields to the Clovis building halfway through his first year of law school and trying to avoid getting called upon in class.

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.

Faith was pointed to law school by Professor Lynn Forsythe at CSUF. She clerked at Fishman, Larson & Goldring during law school and became an associate there at the swearing-in ceremony in November of 2013. Faith subsequently worked with Walter & Wilhelm and Michael Sullivan & Associates before joining Barsamian & Moody. Her work is 50% advice and counsel and 50% litigation. The firm represents both union and non-union employers. Faith finds employment law fascinating. “It has all the great stories and high drama of criminal but does not usually involved actual criminals.” Faith found law school all-consuming, but did manage to meet her husband there, Andrew Driscoll, also class of 2013.

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.

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.”

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.

Kevin worked for the Fifth District Court of Appeal as a Staff Attorney assisting Justice Hollis Best and Pro Tem Judges for a year. He then accepted an offer from McCormick Barstow where he has now worked for 33 years and is a senior partner. His specialty areas are insurance coverage and insurance fraud investigation and litigation where he works with investigators and experts. His property insurance coverage practice has included representing insurers litigating claims arising out of earthquakes, wildfires and other catastrophic losses and is currently focused on issues arising from the Montecito debris flow losses. “The best friendships and discussions arose on our breaks at the Shields Building when we would jump the concrete block wall to get to the donut shop.”

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.”

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.”

Megan grew up in an agricultural family and majored in Ag Science at Cal Poly. She went to work at Maricopa Orchards almost immediately after graduation. Maricopa grows primarily almonds and pistachios, along with citrus, blueberries, and cherries. Megan handles farm property purchases as well as all types of contracts, leases, easements, and license agreements. “Law school took a lot of hard work and dedication. I kept my focus on the light at the end of the tunnel.”

Paul attained the undergraduate degrees of Paralegal Studies and Public Administration before tackling law school. Since his admittance to the Bar, he has spent most of his legal career as an attorney at Central California Legal Services, serving as the Supervising Attorney of the Voluntary Legal Services Program, and currently the Deputy Director of Development. In 2016 Paul received a Certificate in Nonprofit Management through the OneJustice Executive Fellowship Program. For the past 16 years he has taught courses in the Business Division at Fresno City College, as well as a “Street Law” class at SOUL Charter High School. He has also served as a Judge Pro Tem for the Fresno County Superior Court. In 2017 Paul was awarded the Pro Bono Attorney of the Year Award by the Fresno County Bar Association.

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.”

David wanted to serve the rural area of southeast Fresno County and northeast Tulare County. He had a degree in Ag Business and had taken the CPA Exam, but a law degree completed the education necessary to serve the rural population. Upon admission to the bar in 1993, he worked for Mick Marderosian for 2 years in insurance defense, learning a great deal about how to practice law. In 1996, he opened his own practice in Reedley, subsequently moving to Dinuba. Michael Karby (’95) ultimately joined him. David’s practice consists of estate planning, probate, trust administration, family law, and real property matters. As to law school, David remembers students being stacked to the walls in the Shields Avenue building. “We were just trying not to get in each other’s way.”

With a Master of Science Degree in Environmental Science/Ecosystem Management to complement his J.D. from SJCL, Art was appointed by two governors to serve as chair of the California Water Resources Control Board. He had previously served two terms as a Mariposa County Supervisor and is past president of the Association of State and Interstate Water Pollution Control Administrators. “The breadth and quality of graduates from SJCL never ceases to amaze me, but the one common bond they share is how much they give back to the community.”

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.

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.”

Michael opened his own firm immediately upon passing the bar exam. That firm now consists of ten attorneys, most of them San Joaquin College of Law graduates. The firm is a full service firm including civil, business, probate, trust, real estate, family, contract, employment, agricultural, tribal and eminent domain matters. Michael recalls with great excitement a beef recall case he defended several years ago that was the largest beef recall case in U.S. history and was justly resolved. Michael is active in the Hanford community and served for many years on the Board of Trustees of SJCL.

Over the years, Ben has developed an extraordinary legal expertise in human exploitation and trafficking. His career began as a research attorney for the California District Attorney’s Association (CDAA) and from there a Legal and Legislative Consultant to the Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking (CAST). In August of 2011 he became a Special Deputy Attorney General for the California Department of Justice . In that capacity his team wrote a comprehensive report for the Attorney General entitled, “The State of Human Trafficking in California in 2012.” They also delivered a comprehensive analysis of California’s anti-trafficking law enforcement and victims support response, with recommendations for improvement. Ben has traveled to 12 countries lecturing on human trafficking and trained police forces in 4 countries. He has published 15 articles in national and international journals, some of which have been cited by appellate courts. In addition, Ben served for three years as Staff Counsel for the California Department of State Hospitals conducting involuntary medication & treatment hearings and serving on the Sexually Violent Predator Review Panel. Working as Senior Staff Counsel for the California Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Marijuana Control, he helped to draft business regulations for the dozens of emerging cannabis industry’s license types contemplated under California law.

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.

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.

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.”

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.”

After working for a large corporation, RJ Reynolds, Mike went to law school to start own his own business and be his own boss. Upon graduation, he worked for Barker & Associates and the Law Office of Nicholas Reyes, practicing criminal defense. In 2007, he opened his own office. His practice is focused on criminal law – trials, appeals, writs – everything from tickets to homicides. He enjoys alleviating the fear and anxiety of clients facing criminal charges. He credits his legal education at SJCL for much of his success, “My legal training has given me a life even better than I could have imagined.”

With the encouragement of her father, Jonette knew since she was a freshman in high school that she wanted to be an attorney. During law school, she clerked for two years for Hagop Bedoyan at Caswell, Bell & Hillison in bankruptcy law. She remained with that firm for a year after passing the bar exam. In 2006 she joined the Dias Law Firm, becoming a partner in 2011. Jonette handles all of the estate planning and estate litigation for the firm as well as probate and trust administration, with a little family law and general litigation. “I love it!” Aside from her degree, she says the best thing coming out of law school was her friendship with her study partner and now work partner, Ella Floresca (’04). “We are quite a team.”

Oliver joined the Petrie Dorfmeier LLP, firm immediately upon passing the bar. His work primarily involves civil litigation insurance defense in personal injury, premises liability, employment, and general business cases. While in law school he worked as a full time private investigator for governmental entities, Worker’s Compensation carriers, attorneys, and third party administrators, handling anything from catastrophic death cases to alleged teacher/student misconduct. This background gave him the expertise and confidence to adapt to the legal profession and big cases. Oliver became a partner in 2017 in what is now a firm wherein three of the four named partners are SJCL graduates. In law school, Oliver served three years on the Student Bar Association Board, was a major organizer of the Back-to-School and Barristers’ Ball events, and the 2009 third-year student of the year.

As a youngster, Ann was inspired by Matlock but thought she wanted to be a research attorney at a court. Instead, she always wants to be in court. Upon graduation, Ann first worked with Silveira, Mattos & Lewis in Merced doing civil litigation. When that firm dissolved, Ann was hired by the Merced County District Attorney where she worked for two years. She then moved to the Merced County Counsel’s Office where she handled and loved the Juvenile Dependency calendar. On January 1, 2019, Ann joined Berliner Cohen, the largest firm in Merced. She is part of the litigation department, handling anything civil. Ann likes having the smaller-town atmosphere coupled with access to all the resources and dynamism of the main firm in San Jose.

Brandon spent seven years with the Department of Homeland Security during and after law school. His role as an attorney for the city is dynamic and ever changing, which fulfills his desire for work that is intellectually interesting.

“What I love most about my career is that every day I use my education, knowledge and experience to help the residents of the City of Fresno. I am so grateful for the education I received from San Joaquin College of Law.”

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.”

Todd entered law school because he didn’t like the accounting work his father did, his uncle was an attorney, and aptitude tests pointed him in the direction of law. During law school, he interned with the United States Attorney’s Office and loved the trial work. After graduation Todd worked with Blanco, Tomassian & Pimental doing personal injury and civil litigation. From 1999 to 2005, he and a partner continued that type of work. Finally, in 2005, the Law Office of Todd J. Armas was born. His practice consists primarily of family and landlord-tenant cases as well as estate planning. “My best memory of law school is the helpful relationships I had with the SJCL staff – especially Joan Lassley, Lonzetta Hightower, Jill Randles, and Jackie Margritz.”

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!

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.

While awaiting bar results, Marissa externed with U.S. Magistrate Judge Dennis Beck. She then worked on defense of a major criminal case with Nuttall & Coleman. In August of 1999, she joined Wilkins, Drolshagen & Czeshinski LLP where she has remained. She handles a wide range of civil litigation, primarily insurance defense, including premises liability, motor vehicle, employment, and insurance bad faith cases. As to law school, Marissa remembers A LOT of reading. “I wasn’t a reader when I entered law school, but now I love reading!”

Marriage and children caused Leah to postpone her interest in attending law school. Her father was a lawyer, so she was attracted by the versatility of the degree. During law school she was a summer associate with Baker, Manock & Jensen working in medical malpractice defense, but ultimately joined her father’s firm. She is a Certified Workers’ Compensation Specialist, on the plaintiff side. She also handles Social Security Disability cases. Early in her career she served three years on the California Applicants Attorneys Board of Directors. Apart from practicing law, Leah now runs the Law Firm of Cole, Fisher, Cole and O’Keefe, along with her partner and fellow alumni Joseph O’Keefe (Law ’96). They employ 15 people including her daughter, Rachel Mahoney (Law ’11), who will soon be a partner as well. Leah enjoyed law school, the teachers, and the classmates who all pulled together to succeed. “SJCL definitely prepared me for passing the bar and left me well connected in the Legal and Judicial community. Thanks for everything!”

In college, Michelle was helping her boyfriend study for the logic games portion of the LSAT. He convinced her to take a practice test and, when she outscored him, he encouraged her to consider law school. After she moved back to the Central Valley, she began working as a legal secretary for a family friend who was opening her own practice where her interest in law was further piqued. Eventually the practice began sharing space with Melanie Aldridge and Michelle worked for both attorneys. Ultimately, she was the legal secretary/paralegal/law clerk for Melanie and became an associate upon passing the bar. Michelle’s practice is transactional work in estate planning, business, real estate and water law and serves clients primarily involved in agribusiness as well as a few public agencies. “I grew up in agriculture and my husband farms, so this has always felt like a good fit. Law school was challenging but taught me entirely new levels of discipline and hard work. It really caused to me grow as an individual.”

When Treanna entered law school, she planned to be a Public Defender. Upon graduation, she worked for a year and a half as a Public Defender in Madera and Fresno Counties. She then joined Grancell, Stander & Ruebens doing Workers’ Compensation defense for a year, then transitioned to Bradford and Barthel in the same field for three years. As of the end of March, 2019, she works with Chernow & Lieb, continuing with Workers’ Compensation defense, handling cases from depositions to settlement or administrative hearings. She remembers law school having a sense of community with everyone stepping up to help – almost like a family.

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.”

Christina always felt a passion for learning and communicating, so her father encouraged her to go to law school. She clerked with law firms throughout law school, the last year for the criminal law firm Hammerschmidt Broughton. She immediately became an Associate there upon admission to the bar in 2012 and worked with the firm for five years. In March of 2017, she became a Deputy City Attorney with the Fresno City Attorney’s Office, working with the Code Enforcement team trying to improve the quality of rental housing in Fresno. This work includes litigation, negotiations with property owners, and providing advice to the Code Enforcement Department. On July 1, 2019, she was promoted to Assistant City Attorney. In her final year of law school, Christina served as the Managing Editor of the San Joaquin Agricultural Law Review. She met her husband, Kyle Roberson (‘12), while both were studying at SJCL.

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.

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.

Jesse went to law school because he initially wanted to get into land use planning law. During and after law school he clerked at a land use planning firm and a personal injury firm. Upon passing the bar, he worked for eight years at a 13-attorney firm in Sacramento handling immigration and personal injury cases. Atwal & Company opened in 2016 continuing Jesse’s practice in immigration and personal injury law. Today Jesse continues to operate his family’s almond orchards in the Central Valley. He thoroughly enjoyed Professor Artenian’s contracts class, since he ignited Jesse’s passion for civil litigation and Ferragamo dress shoes.

A lifelong interest in serving humanity has lead Alicia to five separate degrees in higher education, and what she considers the perfect career. Her solo consumer law practice is well served by her experience in computer science, quality and compliance for medical devices, peacemaking and conflict resolution, comparative religious studies, and restitution and restoration through a Victim Offender Reconciliation Program. “Consumer law provides me the opportunity to help people who are being taken advantage of and nurture my desire to fight for the underdog. I come to work every day and learn something new.”

During law school, Terry clerked for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, D. Mitchell Taylor, and the Fresno District Attorney’s Office. Terry worked for the Stanislaus County D.A. for about 1 ½ years. He returned to Fresno open his own practice in September 1988. After 28 years as a solo practitioner, Terry and David Jones formed Wapner Jones, PC., a 3-attorney law firm in criminal defense. Terry focuses on, and is a specialist in, DUI drug & alcohol cases, having received a designation from the American Chemical Society as a “Lawyer-Scientist”, trained in the scientific aspects of blood and breath testing. He lectures nationally on blood and breath testing and scientific defenses in DUI’s. Terry remembers the first night of Contracts class with Tom Riggs was very laidback, so he volunteered on the first night of Judge Wanger’s Civil Procedure class. He was grilled for 45 minutes and never volunteered in any class again.

While working at a law firm as a paralegal representing Workers’ Compensation Applicants, Victoria discovered that she excelled in the process of analyzing the law. During law school, she clerked with civil litigation and immigration law firms. Upon passing the bar, Victoria joined Stockwell, Harris handling Workers’ Compensation defense cases. Seventy percent of her work is agriculturally related. Her objective is to reduce the burden to both Applicant and Defendant and to help return Applicants to recovery and to resume being a productive employee/citizen. “Law school was A LOT of reading. I enjoyed working with classmates to create analytical frameworks and how they relate to different fact patterns.”

After completing her undergraduate work, Teju was considering an MBA or a JD, but was told that the JD would be more flexible. She had always had an interest in criminal law. While awaiting bar results, she clerked with the Tulare District Attorney’s Office. Two weeks before bar results, she interviewed for a permanent position and was hired immediately upon getting those favorable results. Currently she serves on the misdemeanor team handling a variety of cases, including DUI’s, drug cases, batteries, and domestic violence prosecutions. As to law school, her overwhelming memories are of the friendships she made and the encouragement she received from professors, particularly Professors Atkinson, Goodrich, and Wrest.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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.”

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 says the County Counsel’s Office is a great environment for an attorney due to the extensive variety of issues they handle. They provide legal services to the Social Services Department (some 7,000 employees alone), in addition to the Board of Supervisors, the CAO, and all other County departments, boards, and agencies. “My aspiration has always been to stay here (in Fresno) and contribute. There is a huge and beneficial comradery in the legal community here.”

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.”

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!”

Becoming a lawyer had been Teresa’s long-time dream, but raising children came first. So, she went to college and obtained a Paralegal Certificate from Fresno City College and began working as a paralegal. And waiting. When her youngest child was a Junior in high school, she enrolled at San Joaquin College of Law. Teresa continued to work as a Paralegal during law school. When she passed the bar, she opened her own law office. Teresa’s early practice included elder law, estate planning, family law and personal injury. Over the last 5 years, she has narrowed her practice to Estate Planning, Trust Administration, Probate and Elder Law. She has been blessed with a busy and successful practice. “Law school is one of the fondest memories of my life. A group of total strangers became very close, surviving and learning as much as possible.” Now, her fond memories come from traveling as much as possible with her husband, Scott Jones (’07).

After working as a paralegal for fourteen years, Leslie made the decision to go to law school and become an attorney. As continuing to work fulltime was a must for her, San Joaquin College of Law was the natural choice. It allowed her the ability to work for a law firm during the day and attend class at night. For the past 22 years, Leslie has worked in civil litigation defending public entities such as cities, counties and school districts and their employees, trying cases in both state and federal court.

Nickie always wanted to be a lawyer, but life got in the way.  She worked for five years in commodities trading, then owned her own Quiznos stores for 12 years.  Finally she returned to a long ago dream and completed law school.  “My third career has been the most rewarding.  I finally found the right fit.”  At Gillett Green, she specializes in special education law, representing parents and children.  “I loved law school – every minute of it.  Read and write all day – perfect!”

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.

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.

Jeff just completed 25 years of legal practice, 17 years with Dowling Aaron, primarily defending employers in discrimination, harassment, and retaliation litigation. He and his wife had both thought about attending law school. They flipped a coin and he lost. Twenty-five years later, he says law school was a life-changing experience that enabled him to do things he never thought possible.

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.”

Denise had always thought about law school, so decided to give it a try. “I loved it.” Upon graduation, she worked as a Research Attorney at the Fifth District Court of Appeal with Judge Donald Franson from 1983 – 1985. Four years at the Fresno City Attorney’s Office followed. In fall of 1989, Denise was hired part-time at SJCL. In March of 1990 that became a full-time position and Denise discovered she had found the niche she loved. Denise has taught in the SJCL Paralegal Program and in the Law Program - Professional Responsibility, Advanced Professional Responsibility, Legal Analysis, Legal Research & Writing, Advanced Research & Writing, and Civil Procedure. “I was a part of the smallest SJCL graduating class – 1983 – so we had a special closeness.”

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.

When Michael was in college, he worked at the T.W. Patterson Building covering the front desk after normal business hours. There, he met Paul Staniford of Staniford, Harris & Loomis. (Yes, John Loomis, SJCL Founder) Staniford’s passion about practicing law inspired Michael to enter law school. Michael took the train to Fresno every day to get to SJCL. Over time, he became friends with the porters on the train who would open a separate car just for him so he could study during the trips. Starting in his second year, Michael clerked at Superior Farming Company in Bakersfield, becoming their Corporate Counsel until the business was sold to Mobil Corporation. Michael then joined Young Wooldridge where he has remained for 32 years. His practice covers a wide range of business and transactional cases.

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 college, Raquel became interested in social justice and felt law school was the way to effect change. In September of 2006, she began working for the firm that would eventually become the ERISA Law Center - first as a secretary, then paralegal, and now lawyer. Raquel’s practice focuses on ERISA and bad faith litigation, helping individuals obtain the disability and life insurance benefits they are entitled to under their employer-sponsored plans. Future plans include incorporating work on prisoner civil rights cases through the Eastern District of California’s Pro Bono Panel. Raquel is proud of being one of the founders of Law Students for Community Advancement, a student organization at SJCL that seeks to empower the student body and local community through speaker presentations and community action events.

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.”

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.

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.

With an undergrad degree in natural science: emphasis in physics and minor in math, Ryan began his career in law as a patent attorney helping inventors apply for patent approval. After a few years of experience and opening his own patent practice, he applied to join the other side of the field as a patent examiner: challenging inventors to demonstrate why their patent applications should not be denied. For Ryan it’s the ultimate dream job. He’s able to combine his love of science with his knowledge of law for a career in the fascinating world of innovation and design. Whenever he’s in town Ryan stops in at SJCL; “I had such a good experience here. I always try to find ways to participate and come back to my alma mater.”

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.”