Alumni Success

Allen’s career has always been in real estate. Upon graduation, he initially worked for McCormick Barstow, and later, as a Director of Land Acquisition for Centex Homes. In 2009, he joined Union Community Partners, which became Benchmark Communities, and in 2013, the company went public under the name UCP, Inc. At the time of going public, Allen was General Counsel. In 2017, UCP merged with Century Communities. Allen is now General Counsel for Century Communities, a top 10 public homebuilder in the United States with communities in 15 states across the West, Mountain, Texas, and Southeast regions of the United States. Allen enjoyed the comradery of his classmates and the willingness of so many great practitioners to give of their time to teaching at SJCL.

Shelli was working in retail management and wanted a career that would offer her more autonomy. During law school she worked for Henry Logoluso & Blum, the Fifth District Court of Appeal and the Federal Defender’s Office. In December of 2001, immediately after receiving her bar results, Shelli was hired as an Associate with Stammer McKnight and has been there ever since. She became a Partner in 2007. Her work is primarily civil defense litigation and family law. Shelli appreciated Professor Purvis’ humor and found the study of law fascinating. She loved the challenge of coming up with as many issues as possible during exam time. “The students were supportive of each other and the alumni is supportive as well.”

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.

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

With over 20 years of healthcare experience, and a MBA to compliment his J.D. from SJCL, Kent was heavily recruited to fill the position of Contracts Manager at Montage Health.  In this hybrid role involving equal parts law and business, Rick’s responsibilities include physician contracting and contract development, managed care payor contracting and negotiations, health plan contracting, business entity filing and coordination, software and software as a service negotiations, and various other legal review and contracting duties. “In my case, SJCL presented the best option and value.  Considering I already had an MBA and considerable healthcare experience, my status as an attorney SUPERCHARGED my healthcare career and paid for itself in the first two years of employment.”

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.”

As a teenager, Phil met a labor lawyer on a picket line in Farmersville. The way the man spoke and carried himself left a lasting impression and left him dreaming of becoming an attorney. After military discharge, Phil attended CSUF, graduating summa cum laude in Literature, and then attended SJCL. After passing the bar, he worked for an attorney in Visalia and encountered District Attorney Will Richmond at a bank opening, pressing him for a job. The following Monday he was interviewed and hired as an entry level Deputy District Attorney. Over the next 12 years he worked in the District Attorney’s Office, including seven years trying homicide cases before being selected as Assistant District Attorney by District Attorney, Gerald Sevier. After Mr. Sevier was elected judge, Phil became District Attorney, serving for 20 years. Since retiring in 2012 he remains active in the law, teaching Constitutional Law at the College of Sequoias and serving as a consultant for companies working with the legislative process. He also writes a blog on Constitutional Law (philcline.com). “I was one of the lucky ones. I had John Loomis for Contracts, Dan Eymann for Torts and Justice Hollis Best for Evidence. They engendered in me a love of the law and how it works.”

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.

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!

Marlene was struck with the law school lightning bolt on the first day of a Business Law class at CSUF. She worked as an IRS auditor throughout law school, which explains why she blew the top off the scores in Ron Henderson’s Taxation class. Marlene was a member of the 1991 founding Editorial Board of the San Joaquin Agricultural Law Review, while delivering a son that spring semester. Having won awards for SJCL in national moot court competitions with Patricia Williams (’93), Marlene later taught Moot Court at SJCL from 1993-1997. After graduation she worked in insurance defense, first as an associate and then as a partner, with Sarah Schmidt (’88), then with two different insurance defense firms before opening her own firm. Marlene does special appearances and contract work for over 400 attorneys, in courts in 6 counties, along with her own cases. Her specialty is defending commercial truck drivers in criminal prosecution of violations of their special traffic and federal regulations. Marlene leads a special ministry at NorthPointe Community Church – the Elder Care Ministry. They help elderly residents, family and caregivers, provide education and support in elder issues, and create a sense of community in assisted living facilities. Marlene thanks a dedicated faculty for a superior education and the start of her rewarding legal career.

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.”

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

Jodie tried for many years to get the services she felt her son, Bren, needed for his autism. There was no lawyer in the San Joaquin Valley area advocating for children with special needs and their families. So, Jodie educated herself, wrote a book about the law and advocacy, and conducted trainings for families, therapists and administrators starting in Fall of 2018. At the same time, Jodie was attending law school. She graduated in May of 2019 and has just passed the bar exam.

In fall of 2019, the BREN Clinic opened.

• B – Bolster partnerships between families and schools.
• R – Reform special education services within communities.
• E – Empower families and individuals to self-advocate.
• N – Network Peer to Peer

The Clinic was made possible by a generous grant from GRAND, “Growing Resources for Autism and Neurodevelopment Disorders,” a private organization supporting special education children and families. Jodie had been a stay-at-home mom for 10 years, caring for Bren. Law school looked a bit intimidating, but she loved “my brain being engaged in a totally new way.” She graduated Valedictorian of the Class of 2019.

Having volunteered at Rape Counseling Services of Fresno, Kim thought she wanted to be a sex crimes prosecutor, but during law school civil classes piqued her interest. Her practice now is business litigation with emphases in real property and probate litigation and contract, partnership, and commercial lease disputes, as well as civil appeals and accessibility defense. “I remember trying to juggle full-time work, night classes, weekend study, and family. I made such great friends and have met so many fellow alumni through being on the Alumni Association Board and attending SJCL events. There is always a connection with other alumni throughout the Fresno area, whether it’s a judge, a long-time colleague, or a recent SJCL grad.”

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.”

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.

Upon graduation, Larry worked with Joe Cooper (’87) for a year doing civil litigation defense cases, before entering the Workers’ Compensation defense field. He has been with Laughlin, Falbo, Levy & Moresi for 20 years, 12 of them as the Managing Attorney of the Fresno Office. In that capacity he has hired a number of fellow SJCL graduates over the years. Larry remembers driving to the bar exam in Sacramento with Mark Asami and Dan Kopfman. On the way they were arguing about a point of Business Law and had dragged out their study guides to resolve the dispute. The exact Business Law issues they had been discussing was one of the essay questions on the bar exam. Larry was able to cite the case in his answer.

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.”

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.

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.”

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.”

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.”

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.

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.

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.”

Maria worked as a Legal Assistant with Perez, Williams, Medina & Rodriguez for seven years before entering law school. She felt she could do more to help people with a law degree and get to finish her cases. She clerked at the firm during law school and became an Associate upon passing the bar. Her work is primarily plaintiff’s personal injury cases, often automobile accidents with significant injuries or deaths. She does a significant amount of pro bono work. “I met so many interesting people in law school. They grow up so much. I saw them as stressed students in law school and now I see them suited up in court and arguing so well.”

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

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.

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.”

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.

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

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

Roberta went to law school because she was looking for a profession with a better long-term future. In law school, she clerked for Sarah Schmidt for two years doing insurance defense for fraud cases. Upon passing the bar, she first handled insurance defense cases for school districts with Auchard & Stewart. The next six years were spent doing school law for Stroup & DeGoede. For the last 15 years, she has worked with Lozano Smith LLP representing schools in labor, employment, and student issues, as well as advising on board governance. “Law school was a very good and challenging experience. I made lifelong friends. I’m very glad I did it.”

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

Upon graduation, 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, 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.

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.

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.”

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.”

Sara worked for 14 years as a Research Attorney at the Fifth District Court of Appeal.  She left to devote her time to serving on the Fresno County Board of Education.  She then worked for Sagaser, Franson & Jones, until she opened her own practice where she specialized in CEQA cases, appellate cases, civil rights litigation, and foreclose defense.  She has been counsel on a number of published cases including a recent win before the California Supreme Court. In May of 2016, she became the Director of Litigation and Advocacy at CCLS and now serves as the Supervising Attorney of the Housing Team.  As to law school, Sara remembers adopting Ms. Palsgraf - a dog Jan found, competing in the statewide Traynor Moot Court Competition with Joby Dupuis, having a baby, and jumping the fence at the Shields building to get to the doughnut shop on breaks.

Roger held a Master Degree in Industrial Relations from the University of Wisconsin and planned to be a corporate lawyer in human resources. To achieve that he needed a law degree. He was working in the HR department of a local corporation when he got a call from then District Attorney of Tulare County, Phil Cline (’78). Phil convinced him to become a Deputy D.A. prosecuting workers’ comp/insurance fraud. In the process, Roger fell in love with being in the courtroom. He worked for the Tulare County D.A. for 2 years, then 8 years with the Fresno County D.A. Roger now runs his own practice primarily representing police officers and deputy sheriffs. Roger’s first impression of SJCL was not good. At that time, SJCL was located in a strip mall building whereas Roger was used to the grand buildings of the University of Wisconsin. Very quickly, however, he discovered the professors and students at SJCL were great.

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.”

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.”

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.”

Elizabeth went to law school so she could help make a positive impact on the agricultural industry. While at SJCL, she clerked for three years as a certified law clerk at Hammerschmidt Broughton Law, where she gained valuable courtroom experience. Upon passing the bar, she joined Emerson Church Law. The firm’s primary wheelhouse is insurance defense. Elizabeth handles cases ranging from simple auto collisions to large multi-million-dollar personal injury and property damage cases. A large portion of her practice consists of agriculturally-based litigation, including crop loss, tractor and equipment-related accidents, big-rig accidents, and animal injury cases. She is the sole handling attorney on all construction defect and habitability cases in her office. Elizabeth has served on the Fresno County Women Lawyers Board of Directors, including as Vice-President. She is grateful to Rayma Church, a 2018 SJCL Hall of Fame inductee, for giving her the opportunity to grow rapidly as a lawyer. As to law school, she fondly remembers the hard work it took to get her law review comment published in the San Joaquin Agricultural Law Review.

Ivan began to think about law school in his high school AP Government class. He had seen numerous injustices, particularly discrimination, he felt law could redress. During law school he worked at Centro La Familia as a Human Trafficking Victim Advocate and in a criminal defense practice. In December of 2018, he joined Stockwell, Harris, Woolverton & Helphrey as a paralegal. Upon his admission to the bar in December of 2019, he became an Associate there, focusing on Workers’ Compensation defense. “I really enjoyed the professors who included practical advice about the practice of law as well as teaching the law.”

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.

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

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.

Dennis worked as a paralegal for the Law Offices of Dan Yohman while in law school and became an Associate upon graduation. That firm evolved into Parker, Kern, Nard & Wenzel in 1991. At least 90% of the firm’s work is workers’ compensation defense, a specialized field that requires knowledge of a panoply of laws. The firm employs 20 lawyers, 12 of whom are SJCL grads. Dennis shares a fond memory of many SJCL grads – Judge Wanger lecturing on Civil Procedure from the pulpit of the church across the street from SJCL’s Shields building when the school had outgrown its space.

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.”

Donn had been working on local Kings and San Joaquin River water and land conservation issues for several years when he decided to attend SJCL in 1990. Upon graduation he was a solo practitioner in Fresno. In September of 1996, the San Francisco City Attorney’s Office hired Donn as a deputy to represent the City’s public utilities department, which provides drinking water to 2.7 million residents in the Bay Area. Theoretically, he retired in May of 2014, but has since continued to work part time on water issues for San Francisco when he isn’t hiking or fishing. He also serves on the board of the Sierra Foothill Conservancy, an organization preserving open space and wildlife habitat in Fresno, Madera and Mariposa Counties. “I was 40 when I started attending SJCL, and it was immensely valuable to learn from the school’s fine professors and active practitioners like Professors Wanger, Perring, Pearson and Cameron.”

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

Prior to attending law school, Tiffany worked as a paralegal for 10 years. She decided she wanted to be able to do the entire job and wanted to be a role model for her children. After going through law school as a single mother, Tiffany was committed to passing the bar on the first attempt. She studied 12 hours a day for three months and completed more than 6000 MBE questions to reach that goal. As to law school, Tiffany found it challenging but she felt supported by her fellow students, the faculty, and staff. Upon passing the bar in November of 2018, she worked first for Peel & Garcia, then moved to Quall Cardot. Her practice is exclusively in creditors’ rights. Her goal is to eventually work in dependency law or juvenile justice.

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

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.”

“As far back as I can remember I wanted to be a lawyer.” During law school Carey was on Law Review and went on to serve as the Managing Editor. She also clerked for two years with the United States Attorney’s Office. Upon passing the bar in 2010, Carey started at State Compensation Insurance Fund. Counsel there handle any insurance claims for which State Fund requires legal representation. Carey likes the variety her position offers, including research, depositions, and court appearances. “It is a fast-paced environment but also provides a good work/life balance.” Carey liked the close-knit, more personal environment of SJCL and the great friendships she made while in law school.

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

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.”

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.

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

Bryce competed for three years in Mock Trial at Redwood High School in Visalia. Then a guidance counselor at College of the Sequoias recommended law as a possible career goal, and it stuck! Upon passing the bar in 2009, Bryce worked with Patricia Lee and Jack Revill serving the Southeast Asian and Hmong communities doing family law, civil litigation, and criminal law for approximately three years. Bryce then worked in Workers’ Compensation defense firms for several years before joining State Compensation Insurance Fund in March of 2019. “I think our class had an exceptionally strong sense of camaraderie. I remain in a contact with many of them.”

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.

When she was young, Amanda proclaimed she would one day be the first female Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. These aspirations included following in the footsteps of her hero, the Honorable Ruth Bader Ginsberg. Life and a young family temporary placed these dreams on hold; however, when her children began attending school, so did Amanda—at SJCL. During law school, Amanda interned in the private sector and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. Amanda found her passion in criminal defense. In October of 2017, she opened her own law firm, aptly devoted to Criminal Defense and to fiercely fighting to protect the integrity of our criminal justice system. Amanda’s firm currently consists of 2 attorneys, one law graduate awaiting bar results, and three law clerks. Amanda is proud of a recent case in which an individual was arrested and denied bail because of his immigration status. Amanda successfully got the case dismissed on the first day of trial; she subsequently waited for her client to ensure he was released from custody without incident. “I loved law school, especially the sense of community and the incredible support provided to everyone.”

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.”

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.”

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.”

Michel is a host and commentator for the Law and Crime Network, a live trial streaming channel produced by Dan Abrams and the A&E Network. Law and Crime can be seen on Hulu, Apple TV, many other outlets and the Law and Crime App. Living in New York State, he is involved in real estate and represents clients seeking to reduce their property tax liabilities. This is crucial in a county with tax rates close to three times that of California. Michel is also a writer, producer and has done TV and radio voice-over work for McDonald’s, Sprint, Traveler’s Insurance and others. “Law school was a shared challenge that bonded my class. It was a unique adventure with some great people. I am proud of SJCL and all that experience has given me over the years.”

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.”

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.

Kathy enjoyed law school because it was fun to study late into the night surrounded by friends, and the professors were amazing. During law school, Kathy worked with Bob Gilmore (’78) for 2 ½ years in civil litigation. After passing the July 1993 bar, she became a Prosecutor in the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. With the D.A., she was on numerous teams including sexual assault and major narcotics while also handling all of the animal abuse cases. In 2006, she transferred to the Public Defender’s Office on the major crimes unit handling life top cases, homicides, gang crimes and a death penalty case. Kathy has done over 75 jury trials and is now enjoying her assignment in the juvenile unit. “When I switched sides from prosecution to defense it was very eye-opening. People cannot be defined by their crimes and criminal law is not one-dimensional. In a courtroom the defense attorney has the most information about the case yet the least amount of power. Being a public defender has been extremely difficult but has made me a better person.”

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

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.

Rissa has worked continuously since graduation at KSC in Hanford, where she is a partner. Her practice has evolved to be primarily civil and complex litigation, including business, agriculture, employment, land use and wage and hour defense. She has advocated for clients before various appellate courts, the California Supreme Court and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Rissa says working at KSC has been a wonderful opportunity because the firm’s work is so diverse, enabling great learning and a fabulous career. No day is ever the same. The lawyers in the firm are highly collaborative, as well. As to law school, Rissa says “I have lifelong friendships with my law school study group – Carla Kahl and Mary Jarvis O’Leary.”

Sam was always interested in practicing law. He clerked with the Fresno Public Defender’s Office during law school. Upon admission to the Bar, he worked with John Barker & Associates (now Richard A. Ciummo & Associates) as a public defender. In 2013 he transferred to the Ciummo office in Alturas, California to be closer to family. In 2018 he ran for District Attorney of Modoc County, challenging the incumbent and won! “There was a need for a change. It was fun knocking on doors and participating in debates.” Sam remembers starting law school at the Shields campus, an old strip-mall office building, but graduating from the Clovis campus.

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.”

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!”

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.

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.

Deborah was operating her own public relations firm when she developed the overwhelming desire to go to law school. She dove in, interning at the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Kahn, Soares & Conway in Hanford. She remained at KSC until joining Walter Wilhelm in 2005. Her practice is trusts and estates, probate, conservatorships, and business transactions. Deborah says, “I received everything I wanted out of law school.”

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.

Juliana worked as a Small Claims Advisor in law school. She was published in and served on the Editorial Board of the San Joaquin Agricultural Law Review. She also interned at the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Upon graduation, Juliana worked for the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office in the Family Support Division for a year. Eight years with Fresno County Counsel followed where she handled subrogation cases for Valley Medical Center, then with the Human Services legal team. For 10 years thereafter, Juliana worked with Maximus, Inc. practicing before the Commission on State Mandates, trying to get reimbursement for public entities for unfunded state mandates. Since May of 2013, Juliana has been with Kings County Counsel and has been the Assistant County Counsel for three years where she represents at least 15 different departments and describes herself as the Civil Legal Jill of All Trades. “During law school, I was exhausted and busy. I thought I wouldn’t be as busy once I had graduated. That has never yet happened.”

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.”

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.

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!”

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.”

After completing his undergraduate degree in 1991, Michael intended to enter law school. Instead, he went to work in the family gas station business. It was supposed to be temporary but he became the Manager and ultimately a Master Mechanic. In 1998 he opened his own shop. Finally, in 2011, he made his way back to law school. Overcoming a few hurdles, he graduated in 2016. He worked first in Worker’s Compensation defense for Yrulegui & Roberts, then moved to medical malpractice defense with White | Canepa LLP in 2019. “Law school was more difficult than I ever imagined. It was eye-opening and changed the way I view many things.”

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.”

George was inspired to go to law school by his two uncles who were lawyers. During law school, he clerked with Michael J.F. Smith. As a graduate, he was an Associate with Lozano Smith, LLP for a year, serving as counsel for the City of Clovis. Working with Ty Kharazi thereafter inspired him to open his own practice, something that had always been his goal. Since 2016, George’s practice has focused on business and real estate litigation, with some personal injury and bad faith insurance cases. George and his teammates, James Mugridge and Amanda DeHart, won the statewide 2013 Roger Traynor Moot Court Best Oral Advocate Award. This fall, George is co-teaching SJCL’s Moot Court class with James. George expressed appreciation for his San Joaquin Agricultural Law Review experience as well, saying “It engrained in me the legal research skills that have been invaluable in my practice.”

Kyle joined the Fresno County Counsel’s Office in 2016 and says he enjoys the good will and sincerity within the network of attorneys from SJCL.  “Our alumni have a strong footprint here in government, which is a testament to SJCL and the quality of attorneys they produce.  Local government attorneys with local roots are invested in the outcomes of their efforts, which creates strong communities with strong institutions.”

Charles had always wanted to go to law school. After working in sales for four years, he felt it was time to do it. It helped that his wife, Julie MacMichael, was starting at SJCL at that time. During law school, Charles clerked at two plaintiff’s personal injury law firms and a business defense firm. Upon entering the Bar, Charles worked with Barsamian & Moody for two years handling business and employer defense cases. Two years ago, he joined Sagaser, Watkins & Wieland, PC. Charles represents employers in litigation, including wage and hour issues, harassment and discrimination cases, and administrative actions before the NLRB, ALRB, CalOSHA, and others. “I loved the comradery of our study group including Julie, John Orman, Jordan Penner, Michael Titus, and David Olmos. We stay in touch with each other regularly still today.”

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.”

Mary says the law was her calling. “I had always tried to standup for the underdog.” Upon graduation, she first worked with Joe Arnold with whom she had clerked as a law student. A year and a half with the Public Defender’s Office followed. In 2009, she and Jennifer Walters opened Walters & Moshrefi, which became Moshrefi Law in 2016. Since entering the private sector her practice has focused on family and criminal law. “I remember the comradery between students and faculty at SJCL. We felt like we were all in it together, unlike what you hear about other law schools.”

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.”

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

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.”

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.

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

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.

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.