Class of 2012
Tulare County Deputy Counsel

During his four years as Deputy County Counsel with the Tulare County Counsel’s Office, Abel Martinez has worked closely with Child Welfare and Protective Services, Public Guardianships, and the Mental Health Department. His desire to give back to the community is fulfilled by the diversity of clients and issues handled by the Tulare County Counsel’s Office. “Our team covers a lot of issues. It’s a lot of work and a lot of court time,” he says. After graduating from Fresno State in Business Administration, Abe worked for 5 years at the State Board of Equalization in auditing and collection. He said he thought about becoming a CPA, but opted instead for law school. Although he was accepted to McGeorge Law School in Sacramento, Abe says he knew he would receive a quality legal education at SJCL, with a lot less expense and hassle. “My family is from here. I knew I wanted to stay here once I graduated,” he said. Abe said the local legal community is well known for its support network. Upon his graduation from SJCL Abe clerked for a local lawyer for two years. He then became a clerk with the Tulare County Counsel while he took the Bar exam. Once a position opened up in Tulare, he took it.