In a completely separate case, this doctor failed to
produce documents. Why would this doctor try to hide
evidence from a hearing officer?
Mileikowsky v. West Hills Hospital and Medical Center (2009) , Cal.4th No. S156986. Apr. 6, 2009
...Dr. Gil N. Mileikowsky is a physician and surgeon board certified in obstetrics and gynecology. He had staff privileges
to practice gynecology at West Hills Hospital and Medical Center (West Hills), an acute care facility. In May 2001, Dr.
Mileikowsky applied for obstetrical privileges at West Hills and for renewal of his gynecological privileges. His
applications were reviewed by a peer review committee, which recommended denial. The recommendation was
submitted to West Hills's medical executive committee, which also recommended denial. Dr. Mileikowsky was given
formal notice of the recommendation and the reasons for it:
(1) he had failed to notify the medical staff that his privileges at another facility, Century City Hospital, had been
terminated;
(2) he had represented that he had voluntarily resigned from a third facility, the Encino-Tarzana Regional Medical
Center, when in fact he had been summarily suspended; fn. 2 and
(3) he had attended a patient at West Hills and attempted to perform a caesarean section on her when he lacked
obstetrical privileges and the patient had requested he stay away.
...Cedars-Sinai [indicated] Dr. Mileikowsky's privileges at that facility had been suspended for actions falling into the
adverse action classification of "Incompetence/Malpractice/Negligence."
On February 5, 2003, after detailing the many complaints the parties had made about one another, including West
Hills's complaint that Dr. Mileikowsky persistently refused to provide information relating to the action taken
against him by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, the hearing officer ordered Dr. Mileikowsky to produce the
Cedars-Sinai documents, warning he would impose terminating sanctions should Dr. Mileikowsky fail to comply.
Dr. Mileikowsky replied he would be occupied until March 14 with "other matters" and would respond to the
officer's order after that date.
On March 18, 2003, the hearing officer wrote to the parties he had received no further communication from Dr.
Mileikowsky, ordered Dr. Mileikowsky to make arrangements to allow inspection and copying of the Cedars-Sinai
documents by March 24, and again warned he would order terminating sanctions if Dr. Mileikowsky failed to
comply.
Dr. Mileikowsky did not comply with the hearing officer's order. On March 27, 2003, the hearing officer issued an
order dismissing Dr. Mileikowsky's request for a hearing, finding Dr. Mileikowsky's refusal to make the documents
available prevented West Hills from prosecuting its case...
produce documents. Why would this doctor try to hide
evidence from a hearing officer?
Mileikowsky v. West Hills Hospital and Medical Center (2009) , Cal.4th No. S156986. Apr. 6, 2009
...Dr. Gil N. Mileikowsky is a physician and surgeon board certified in obstetrics and gynecology. He had staff privileges
to practice gynecology at West Hills Hospital and Medical Center (West Hills), an acute care facility. In May 2001, Dr.
Mileikowsky applied for obstetrical privileges at West Hills and for renewal of his gynecological privileges. His
applications were reviewed by a peer review committee, which recommended denial. The recommendation was
submitted to West Hills's medical executive committee, which also recommended denial. Dr. Mileikowsky was given
formal notice of the recommendation and the reasons for it:
(1) he had failed to notify the medical staff that his privileges at another facility, Century City Hospital, had been
terminated;
(2) he had represented that he had voluntarily resigned from a third facility, the Encino-Tarzana Regional Medical
Center, when in fact he had been summarily suspended; fn. 2 and
(3) he had attended a patient at West Hills and attempted to perform a caesarean section on her when he lacked
obstetrical privileges and the patient had requested he stay away.
...Cedars-Sinai [indicated] Dr. Mileikowsky's privileges at that facility had been suspended for actions falling into the
adverse action classification of "Incompetence/Malpractice/Negligence."
On February 5, 2003, after detailing the many complaints the parties had made about one another, including West
Hills's complaint that Dr. Mileikowsky persistently refused to provide information relating to the action taken
against him by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, the hearing officer ordered Dr. Mileikowsky to produce the
Cedars-Sinai documents, warning he would impose terminating sanctions should Dr. Mileikowsky fail to comply.
Dr. Mileikowsky replied he would be occupied until March 14 with "other matters" and would respond to the
officer's order after that date.
On March 18, 2003, the hearing officer wrote to the parties he had received no further communication from Dr.
Mileikowsky, ordered Dr. Mileikowsky to make arrangements to allow inspection and copying of the Cedars-Sinai
documents by March 24, and again warned he would order terminating sanctions if Dr. Mileikowsky failed to
comply.
Dr. Mileikowsky did not comply with the hearing officer's order. On March 27, 2003, the hearing officer issued an
order dismissing Dr. Mileikowsky's request for a hearing, finding Dr. Mileikowsky's refusal to make the documents
available prevented West Hills from prosecuting its case...
WHY DID BOB GALLAGHER SUDDENLY LEAVE HIS OWN FIRM,
STUTZ GALLAGHER, IN EARLY 2004?
STUTZ GALLAGHER, IN EARLY 2004?
Why did Robert E. Gallagher, Jr., a founding partner of the firm that was known for years as "Stutz,
Gallagher," leave his own firm?
The timing was interesting. He left right after Maura Larkins wrote a letter to the firm detailing
actions by Daniel Shinoff and Kelly Angell Minnehan.
Gallagher," leave his own firm?
The timing was interesting. He left right after Maura Larkins wrote a letter to the firm detailing
actions by Daniel Shinoff and Kelly Angell Minnehan.
Daniel Shinoff failed to produce missing documents from a set of at least 87 Bate-stamped
documents from his investigation of a possible school shooting at Castle Park Elementary School in
CVESD. Does he do this to benefit children? Or to promote a system that keeps dollars flowing to
school attorneys without solving school problems?
documents from his investigation of a possible school shooting at Castle Park Elementary School in
CVESD. Does he do this to benefit children? Or to promote a system that keeps dollars flowing to
school attorneys without solving school problems?
A Favorite San
Diego Schools
Tactic:
arresting parents and
employees
A favorite San Diego
schools tactic is to try get
plaintiffs arrested. This
works especially well
when the litigant is a
parent. All the school has
to do is to invite the
parent to a meeting to
discuss a student, and
have law officers waiting
to arrest the parent for
"disturbing" the school
with complaints. This
happened in the Claudia
Houston case. In the
Lindsey Stewart case,
Poway Unified School
District obtained a court
order demanding a parent
pay over $1000 for
sending a long court
document to lawyers ($2
per page).
Parent David Alberts sued
Daniel Shinoff for slander.
Using the criminal justice
system to achieve an
advantage in a civil case
is called extortion. Sadly,
law enforcement
sometimes arrests the
wrong people.
Diego Schools
Tactic:
arresting parents and
employees
A favorite San Diego
schools tactic is to try get
plaintiffs arrested. This
works especially well
when the litigant is a
parent. All the school has
to do is to invite the
parent to a meeting to
discuss a student, and
have law officers waiting
to arrest the parent for
"disturbing" the school
with complaints. This
happened in the Claudia
Houston case. In the
Lindsey Stewart case,
Poway Unified School
District obtained a court
order demanding a parent
pay over $1000 for
sending a long court
document to lawyers ($2
per page).
Parent David Alberts sued
Daniel Shinoff for slander.
Using the criminal justice
system to achieve an
advantage in a civil case
is called extortion. Sadly,
law enforcement
sometimes arrests the
wrong people.
Attorney Mark Bresee and Daniel Shinoff failed to produce
evidence collected regarding the Larkins v. CVESD case
evidence collected regarding the Larkins v. CVESD case
CVESD attorney Mark Bresee listened to this and other depositions, and then continued to work to
keep evidence out of this hearing. CVESD and other districts rely on such attorneys.
keep evidence out of this hearing. CVESD and other districts rely on such attorneys.
Stutz law firm's
defamation lawsuit
against this website
defamation lawsuit
against this website
Deposition of Ray Artiano
by the author of this
website (with Dan
Shinoff acting as
Artiano's counsel)
by the author of this
website (with Dan
Shinoff acting as
Artiano's counsel)
All blog posts re Stutz
Defamation lawsuit
against this website
Defamation lawsuit
against this website
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Claudia Houston, a parent representing herself, wins
against Daniel Shinoff in the Ninth Circuit Federal
Court of Appeal
against Daniel Shinoff in the Ninth Circuit Federal
Court of Appeal
On January 29, 2008 the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal for the United States said
that Claudia Houston should have been allowed to prove that she had exhausted
administrative remedies. She had provided the proof to her lawyer, Thomas
Gill, but he had not filed it with the court.
The court did not rule on whether Encinitas Union School District was wrong to
throw Claudia Houston in jail for a week because she "disturbed" the school.
(Stutz also claimed that a person who tried two times to serve a deposition
subpoena was "stalking". So much for reliability of Stutz clients' allegations).
They didn't rule on how having a parent arrested harms children. (This is exactly
what many of Daniel Shinoff's schools do. When Dan Shinoff wants parents to
stop making demands, he usually gets what he wants.) To make matters worse,
Claudia Houston was the sole surviving parent of two youngsters.
It wasn't enough to stop Ms. Houston.
To undermine Ms. Houston further, Dan Shinoff hired Ms. Houston's lawyer, who
then dropped Houston as a client. She seems to have done very well representing
herself.
Click HERE to read the opinion in case number D.C. No. CV-00-02475-WQH.
that Claudia Houston should have been allowed to prove that she had exhausted
administrative remedies. She had provided the proof to her lawyer, Thomas
Gill, but he had not filed it with the court.
The court did not rule on whether Encinitas Union School District was wrong to
throw Claudia Houston in jail for a week because she "disturbed" the school.
(Stutz also claimed that a person who tried two times to serve a deposition
subpoena was "stalking". So much for reliability of Stutz clients' allegations).
They didn't rule on how having a parent arrested harms children. (This is exactly
what many of Daniel Shinoff's schools do. When Dan Shinoff wants parents to
stop making demands, he usually gets what he wants.) To make matters worse,
Claudia Houston was the sole surviving parent of two youngsters.
It wasn't enough to stop Ms. Houston.
To undermine Ms. Houston further, Dan Shinoff hired Ms. Houston's lawyer, who
then dropped Houston as a client. She seems to have done very well representing
herself.
Click HERE to read the opinion in case number D.C. No. CV-00-02475-WQH.
It was approximately March of 2004 when Maura Larkins became aware that Gallagher had left
Stutz Gallagher. Kelly Angell informed Judge Nevitt (in Larkins' presence) that Gallagher was no
longer part of the firm, and the firm had changed its name. Why would this information be
announced to a judge? I suspect that Gallagher demanded it.
Stutz Gallagher. Kelly Angell informed Judge Nevitt (in Larkins' presence) that Gallagher was no
longer part of the firm, and the firm had changed its name. Why would this information be
announced to a judge? I suspect that Gallagher demanded it.
Correction:
During Stutz law firm's
6-hour deposition of
Maura Larkins on June
16, 2008, one error was
discovered on this
website.
Consequently, Maura
Larkins has removed the
words "Stutz law firm
charged a parent over
$1000..." from the
italicized and underlined
passage BELOW, and
replaced them with the
words: "Poway Unified
School District
obtained a court order
demanding a parent
pay over $1000."
It should be noted that
Daniel Shinoff is Poway's
chief lawyer.
During Stutz law firm's
6-hour deposition of
Maura Larkins on June
16, 2008, one error was
discovered on this
website.
Consequently, Maura
Larkins has removed the
words "Stutz law firm
charged a parent over
$1000..." from the
italicized and underlined
passage BELOW, and
replaced them with the
words: "Poway Unified
School District
obtained a court order
demanding a parent
pay over $1000."
It should be noted that
Daniel Shinoff is Poway's
chief lawyer.
Attorney Mark Bresee
Bresee and Werlin
Bresee OAH hearing
Bresee and school
attorneys
Bresee and Werlin
Bresee OAH hearing
Bresee and school
attorneys
Stutz, Artiano, Shinoff & Holtz, APC
Education Attorneys
| The Claudia Houston case (Atty. Dan Shinoff) |
| Lindsey Stewart case |
| David Alberts v. Atty. Dan Shinoff--Defamation case involving atty. Deborah K. Garvin. (Garvin perjury.) |
School lawyers v.
parents and students
parents and students
| Fred Kamper case (Atty. Dan Shinoff) |
| June 2007 Supreme Court Decision against CTA regarding child sexual abuse |
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| Vista USD/Guajome Park sues student for exposing teachers who changed grades |
School Attorneys
| Blogs |
*The law firm of Stutz, Artiano, Shinoff & Holtz, to which the SDCOE JPA steers the lion's
share of its cases, is closely tied to right-wing Republicans such as Lesley Devaney.
Devaney joined the Stutz law firm after losing to Michael Aguirre in the race for San
Diego City Attorney. Devaney has recently admitted that if she had been elected, she
would HAVE HELPED city officials and employees, not the public, regarding the secret
2002 pension underfunding deal. I think the city attorney should, in the public interest,
demand explanations from officials.
share of its cases, is closely tied to right-wing Republicans such as Lesley Devaney.
Devaney joined the Stutz law firm after losing to Michael Aguirre in the race for San
Diego City Attorney. Devaney has recently admitted that if she had been elected, she
would HAVE HELPED city officials and employees, not the public, regarding the secret
2002 pension underfunding deal. I think the city attorney should, in the public interest,
demand explanations from officials.
School district lawyers used Richard Werlin, former Assistant Superintendent at Chula Vista
Elementary School District, as a witness in cases long after sworn testimony for the Office of
Administrative Hearings proved that he contradicted the witnesses he used to justify his
actions in the Larkins case.
Lawyers also continued to claim Richard Werlin as an employee long after he disappeared
from the district directory. (Click here for district directory.)
Werlin completely avoided depositions during the first Maura Larkins Superior Court case,
claiming that a letter from his cardiologist justified his refusal to testify. One wonders
whether it is a mental or a physical illness, since Mr. Werlin has insisted that teachers with
cancer and other illnesses work full time.
But why is it that Werlin is too sick to testify in some cases but not others?
Elementary School District, as a witness in cases long after sworn testimony for the Office of
Administrative Hearings proved that he contradicted the witnesses he used to justify his
actions in the Larkins case.
Lawyers also continued to claim Richard Werlin as an employee long after he disappeared
from the district directory. (Click here for district directory.)
Werlin completely avoided depositions during the first Maura Larkins Superior Court case,
claiming that a letter from his cardiologist justified his refusal to testify. One wonders
whether it is a mental or a physical illness, since Mr. Werlin has insisted that teachers with
cancer and other illnesses work full time.
But why is it that Werlin is too sick to testify in some cases but not others?
When only stories acceptable to SDCOE and its lawyers are printed in
San Diego's ONE regional newspaper, are schools harmed?
San Diego's ONE regional newspaper, are schools harmed?
Do you not agree with the San Diego Press Club that Stutz, Artiano, Shinoff & Holtz has
the third-best website design in San Diego (www. stutzlawfirm.com)?
If not, that's a shame. After all, you paid for it
with your tax dollars.
The website prize does, however, help to explain how this law firm is able to maintain the
public trust and avoid bad press in San Diego.
The firm cultivates friends--and prizes--in the press. It won the Daily Transcript's "peer"
competition, in which a tiny percentage of San Diego lawyers participated.
Maura Larkins' letter to the editor of March 25, 2004 does not show up in a search of San
Diego Union Tribune archives. The other five letters of Maura Larkins show up in a
search, but not the one about Daniel Shinoff.
the third-best website design in San Diego (www. stutzlawfirm.com)?
If not, that's a shame. After all, you paid for it
with your tax dollars.
The website prize does, however, help to explain how this law firm is able to maintain the
public trust and avoid bad press in San Diego.
The firm cultivates friends--and prizes--in the press. It won the Daily Transcript's "peer"
competition, in which a tiny percentage of San Diego lawyers participated.
Maura Larkins' letter to the editor of March 25, 2004 does not show up in a search of San
Diego Union Tribune archives. The other five letters of Maura Larkins show up in a
search, but not the one about Daniel Shinoff.
Another response to "The Collateral Damage of
Aguirre's Furies"
Thank you Ms. Devaney for your opinion on Mr.
Aguirre's first year of being in office. Now, if you don't
mind, I'll ignore that opinion. You see, it was your
previous boss Casey Gwinn, who went "ostrich" when
the excesses of City Council went unimpeded and
unchecked leading to our infamous "Enron by the Sea"
name tag. Weren't you second in command, at the city
attorney's office, when all of this public profiteering
was in full swing?
San Diego needs a populist, activist city attorney. I
applaud Mr. Aguirre and Don McGrath for "jumping into
the fray." Does the bungling of the De La Fuente
judgments ring any legal jingle bells? Would Councilman
Madaffer have been able to orchestrate retroactive
pension benefits for past council members under Mike
Aguirre's tenure? The answers to these concerns are
publicly evident. Mr. Aguirre and his team of transparent
oriented city attorneys are representing an under
represented constituency.
Ms. Devaney, that constituency would be taxpaying
citizens of San Diego. From taking on the largess of
SDCERS to the special interest take over of the Torrey
Pines Golf Complex, Mr. Aguirre is on the right track.
Had Mr. Gwinn (with you at his side) not been asleep
during his watch, San Diego would probably be in a
better financial position. Please ponder that if you need
to spend time ruefully worrying about the city's current
state of affairs.
DALE PETERSON, SAN DIEGO
December 13, 2005
Aguirre's Furies"
Thank you Ms. Devaney for your opinion on Mr.
Aguirre's first year of being in office. Now, if you don't
mind, I'll ignore that opinion. You see, it was your
previous boss Casey Gwinn, who went "ostrich" when
the excesses of City Council went unimpeded and
unchecked leading to our infamous "Enron by the Sea"
name tag. Weren't you second in command, at the city
attorney's office, when all of this public profiteering
was in full swing?
San Diego needs a populist, activist city attorney. I
applaud Mr. Aguirre and Don McGrath for "jumping into
the fray." Does the bungling of the De La Fuente
judgments ring any legal jingle bells? Would Councilman
Madaffer have been able to orchestrate retroactive
pension benefits for past council members under Mike
Aguirre's tenure? The answers to these concerns are
publicly evident. Mr. Aguirre and his team of transparent
oriented city attorneys are representing an under
represented constituency.
Ms. Devaney, that constituency would be taxpaying
citizens of San Diego. From taking on the largess of
SDCERS to the special interest take over of the Torrey
Pines Golf Complex, Mr. Aguirre is on the right track.
Had Mr. Gwinn (with you at his side) not been asleep
during his watch, San Diego would probably be in a
better financial position. Please ponder that if you need
to spend time ruefully worrying about the city's current
state of affairs.
DALE PETERSON, SAN DIEGO
December 13, 2005
What crucial fact does Leslie Devaney leave out of her
essay?
DEVANEY WAS THE NUMBER 2 OFFICIAL IN THE OFFICE
OF CITY ATTORNEY until Mike Aguirre took office.
[Devaney boasts about this connection in her 2004
campaign for city attorney:
Key Endorsements
* San Diego City Attorney Casey Gwinn
* Former San Diego Assistant Chief of Police Keith
Enerson
* California Court of Appeal Justice Howard B. Weiner.,
Retired]
Perhaps this one bit of information explains why Devaney
is outraged at Aguirre's efforts to expose the facts about
actions by public officials!
essay?
DEVANEY WAS THE NUMBER 2 OFFICIAL IN THE OFFICE
OF CITY ATTORNEY until Mike Aguirre took office.
[Devaney boasts about this connection in her 2004
campaign for city attorney:
Key Endorsements
* San Diego City Attorney Casey Gwinn
* Former San Diego Assistant Chief of Police Keith
Enerson
* California Court of Appeal Justice Howard B. Weiner.,
Retired]
Perhaps this one bit of information explains why Devaney
is outraged at Aguirre's efforts to expose the facts about
actions by public officials!
The Millgram experiments
proved that 65% of
ordinary Americans will
follow the directions of a
man in a white coat who
tells them to continue
giving shocks to someone
who gave the wrong
answer on a memory test!
Most people will not stop
even when the victims
pound on the wall and
complain about a heart
condition--if the authority
figure directs them to
continue.
In the experiments, as
wrong answers were given,
the voltage went up and
up--to the highest voltage
available.
Jason Bellows says, "One
might hope that we've
evolved to the point that we
can question authority–
where we can look our
leaders in the face and ask
why."
In San Diego, the SDCOE
JPA contributes to a culture
where teachers follow
orders without asking why.
What happens to the 45%
of people who refuse to
continue the experiment?
What happens to whistle-
blowers?
Usually, they get fired, as
happened to Coach Carter
in Escondido, Maura Larkins
in Chula Vista, Mary Anne
Weegar in Sweetwater, etc.
proved that 65% of
ordinary Americans will
follow the directions of a
man in a white coat who
tells them to continue
giving shocks to someone
who gave the wrong
answer on a memory test!
Most people will not stop
even when the victims
pound on the wall and
complain about a heart
condition--if the authority
figure directs them to
continue.
In the experiments, as
wrong answers were given,
the voltage went up and
up--to the highest voltage
available.
Jason Bellows says, "One
might hope that we've
evolved to the point that we
can question authority–
where we can look our
leaders in the face and ask
why."
In San Diego, the SDCOE
JPA contributes to a culture
where teachers follow
orders without asking why.
What happens to the 45%
of people who refuse to
continue the experiment?
What happens to whistle-
blowers?
Usually, they get fired, as
happened to Coach Carter
in Escondido, Maura Larkins
in Chula Vista, Mary Anne
Weegar in Sweetwater, etc.
Answer: Pretty much
every time. Here's
why:
every time. Here's
why:
Will school
administrators and
teachers always do
what a school
lawyer tells them to
do?
administrators and
teachers always do
what a school
lawyer tells them to
do?
Stutz and the San Diego Press
Is it the lawyers
or the school
boards?
I suspect that San Diego
Joint Powers Authority
lawyers dictate to school
boards how legal matters
will be handled, although
the board members are
legally responsible. Many
school board members are
far from sophisticated
when it comes to legal
matters.
or the school
boards?
I suspect that San Diego
Joint Powers Authority
lawyers dictate to school
boards how legal matters
will be handled, although
the board members are
legally responsible. Many
school board members are
far from sophisticated
when it comes to legal
matters.
Link: What did this law firm do to get this web site to disappear (for a while, at least) from
Google searches for Stutz, Artiano and Shinoff?
Google searches for Stutz, Artiano and Shinoff?
More Tactics
At Grossmont Cuyamaca
Community College,
where chancellor Omero
Suarez changed his own
contract without
permission, the board kept
him on. Suarez (and Stutz
lawyer Jack Sleeth) are
apparently doing exactly
what the board wants.
Community College,
where chancellor Omero
Suarez changed his own
contract without
permission, the board kept
him on. Suarez (and Stutz
lawyer Jack Sleeth) are
apparently doing exactly
what the board wants.
Who initiates
the actions?
the actions?
Daniel Shinoff Loses;
Poway High School
students win $300,000
Why didn't the SDCOE
JPA settle this case?
That's not what Diane
Crosier, SDCOE JPA
director, pays lawyers to
do. Neither taxpayers
nor students benefited.
How much was Shinoff
paid?
Poway High School
students win $300,000
Why didn't the SDCOE
JPA settle this case?
That's not what Diane
Crosier, SDCOE JPA
director, pays lawyers to
do. Neither taxpayers
nor students benefited.
How much was Shinoff
paid?
Attorneys who have helped
schools avoid revealing
events in schools are in
charge of training both new
board members and new
school attorneys.
schools avoid revealing
events in schools are in
charge of training both new
board members and new
school attorneys.
Perhaps Stutz attorney Jeffery Morris
(of Pepperdine University) dreams of
one day matching the tactics of
Pepperdine Law School's dean, Ken
Starr.
UPDATE: FEB 11, 2006
Ken Starr is trying really hard to get
clemency for death row inmate
Michael Morales who killed and raped
a 17-year-old girl. Ken Starr stands
accused by prosecutors of submitting
forged documents in the case!
Remind me again exactly why Ken
Starr spent $64 million taxpayer
dollars to prosecute Bill Clinton?
What is the total amount paid by
taxpayers to Dan Shinoff?
(of Pepperdine University) dreams of
one day matching the tactics of
Pepperdine Law School's dean, Ken
Starr.
UPDATE: FEB 11, 2006
Ken Starr is trying really hard to get
clemency for death row inmate
Michael Morales who killed and raped
a 17-year-old girl. Ken Starr stands
accused by prosecutors of submitting
forged documents in the case!
Remind me again exactly why Ken
Starr spent $64 million taxpayer
dollars to prosecute Bill Clinton?
What is the total amount paid by
taxpayers to Dan Shinoff?
Here's what Stutz law firm says about its "public entity" practice:
"Stutz Artiano has extensive experience in representing a wide variety of public entities throughout Southern
California including cities, counties, special districts, Joint Powers Authorities, school districts, community colleges,
the State of California and other public agencies. The firm serves as both general counsel and litigation counsel to
our clients, providing advice on a wide range of legal issues including the California Public Records Act, the Brown
Act, employee discipline and employment contracts.
"Our litigation team is skilled and well versed in a wide range of claims that confront public entities and can handle
the largest, most protected claims as well as smaller, more defined cases. The team has handled cases ranging
from complex employment matters to personal injury, environmental and defamation claims, to road design flaws
and excessive force.
"Knowing that prevention and education is key to avoiding costly litigation, we provide on-going training and
workshops for our public entity clients on matters such as workplace violence and harassment, discrimination in
the workplace, Americans with Disabilities Act, Family and Medical Leave Act and the Government Tort Claims Act."
Contact:
Ray J. Artiano
Leslie E. Devaney
Prescilla Dugard
Daniel R. Shinoff
Jack M. Sleeth, Jr.
"Stutz Artiano has extensive experience in representing a wide variety of public entities throughout Southern
California including cities, counties, special districts, Joint Powers Authorities, school districts, community colleges,
the State of California and other public agencies. The firm serves as both general counsel and litigation counsel to
our clients, providing advice on a wide range of legal issues including the California Public Records Act, the Brown
Act, employee discipline and employment contracts.
"Our litigation team is skilled and well versed in a wide range of claims that confront public entities and can handle
the largest, most protected claims as well as smaller, more defined cases. The team has handled cases ranging
from complex employment matters to personal injury, environmental and defamation claims, to road design flaws
and excessive force.
"Knowing that prevention and education is key to avoiding costly litigation, we provide on-going training and
workshops for our public entity clients on matters such as workplace violence and harassment, discrimination in
the workplace, Americans with Disabilities Act, Family and Medical Leave Act and the Government Tort Claims Act."
Contact:
Ray J. Artiano
Leslie E. Devaney
Prescilla Dugard
Daniel R. Shinoff
Jack M. Sleeth, Jr.
The instruction Stutz gives to
public entities causes enormous
problems for the entities and
the citizens who pay all their
bills--and their lawyers' bills.
Liability insurance rates seem
to skyrocket when Dan Shinoff
gets involved with a school
district. He keeps the San
Diego Superior Court calendar
filled with cases which could
have--and should have--never
have reached the litigation
stage in the first place.
public entities causes enormous
problems for the entities and
the citizens who pay all their
bills--and their lawyers' bills.
Liability insurance rates seem
to skyrocket when Dan Shinoff
gets involved with a school
district. He keeps the San
Diego Superior Court calendar
filled with cases which could
have--and should have--never
have reached the litigation
stage in the first place.
From the Stutz law firm website:
"For more than 20 years, Stutz Artiano has prided itself as being one of
the state’s leading education-focused law firms, representing more than
40 districts throughout California. Our attorneys are experienced in all
aspects of education law, providing general and litigation
counsel to school and community college districts that
require expert, aggressive legal representation at all
levels. In addition to their expert legal backgrounds, many of our
education law team attorneys previously served as school board
members, as well as teachers in the classroom, making them even more
sensitive to and uniquely qualified in the education law arena.
"As general counsel, our attorneys keep clients up to date on the latest
laws affecting districts and the clients they serve, and provide expert
counsel and strategic planning advice on how to deal with potential
issues before they become real problems. Special education,
student rights and discipline, certificated and classified employment
issues, discrimination and sexual harassment, school financing and
bonds, collective bargaining, charter schools, No Child Left Behind Act,
facilities, the Brown Act, the California Public Records Act, government
tort claims and liability – are all areas in which we provide counsel and
litigation support to protect the interests of our clients.
"Our attorneys are frequent speakers at local
and national education conferences and
seminars on advisory, special education and
litigation topics. We develop and conduct
workshops on legal issues of importance to our
clients in an effort to keep them current on
important changes in the laws that affect them.
We are also active members and participants in many school related
professional organizations including the Association of California School
Administrators (ACSA), California School Boards Association (CSBA),
the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO), the
California Council of School Attorneys for which one of our attorneys
was a founding member, the National School Boards Association (NSBA)
and the Coalition for Adequate School Housing (CASH)."
Contact:
Ray J. Artiano
Daniel R. Shinoff
Jack M. Sleeth, Jr.
Jeffery A. Morris
downloaded 11-30-07
"Education" practice
"For more than 20 years, Stutz Artiano has prided itself as being one of
the state’s leading education-focused law firms, representing more than
40 districts throughout California. Our attorneys are experienced in all
aspects of education law, providing general and litigation
counsel to school and community college districts that
require expert, aggressive legal representation at all
levels. In addition to their expert legal backgrounds, many of our
education law team attorneys previously served as school board
members, as well as teachers in the classroom, making them even more
sensitive to and uniquely qualified in the education law arena.
"As general counsel, our attorneys keep clients up to date on the latest
laws affecting districts and the clients they serve, and provide expert
counsel and strategic planning advice on how to deal with potential
issues before they become real problems. Special education,
student rights and discipline, certificated and classified employment
issues, discrimination and sexual harassment, school financing and
bonds, collective bargaining, charter schools, No Child Left Behind Act,
facilities, the Brown Act, the California Public Records Act, government
tort claims and liability – are all areas in which we provide counsel and
litigation support to protect the interests of our clients.
"Our attorneys are frequent speakers at local
and national education conferences and
seminars on advisory, special education and
litigation topics. We develop and conduct
workshops on legal issues of importance to our
clients in an effort to keep them current on
important changes in the laws that affect them.
We are also active members and participants in many school related
professional organizations including the Association of California School
Administrators (ACSA), California School Boards Association (CSBA),
the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO), the
California Council of School Attorneys for which one of our attorneys
was a founding member, the National School Boards Association (NSBA)
and the Coalition for Adequate School Housing (CASH)."
Contact:
Ray J. Artiano
Daniel R. Shinoff
Jack M. Sleeth, Jr.
Jeffery A. Morris
downloaded 11-30-07
"Education" practice
Dan Shinoff trains
board members and
employees as well
as attorneys
board members and
employees as well
as attorneys
After Gallagher left, the firm proclaimed on its website, "Each of the
founding members of the law firm practices with the firm today."
In his deposition, Ray Artiano referred to Bob Gallagher as an "employee."
founding members of the law firm practices with the firm today."
In his deposition, Ray Artiano referred to Bob Gallagher as an "employee."
Two days after I faxed a complaint regarding this incorrect
information on its website to Stutz law firm, the Stutz
website was changed (see document below.)
information on its website to Stutz law firm, the Stutz
website was changed (see document below.)
| Stutz law firm seems to be built in large part on the proposition that it and SDCOE-JPA and Keenan and Associates should take tax dollars from teachers and students. |
Stutz law firm website concealed the fact that founding partner
Robert Gallagher left the firm in early 2004:
Robert Gallagher left the firm in early 2004:
Special Education
One of Daniel Shinoff's specialties is
planning legal tactics against parents
who complain that their kids aren't
getting the right education.
SP ED AFTER REAUTHORIZATION
Title: GR K-12 SP EDUC TCHRS
Date: 3/14/2005 8:00AM
Details: Daniel Shinoff and Jack
Sleeth will present vital
information to keep you up-to-date
with the latest changes and best
practices in the implementation of IDEA
as reauthorized...agenda topics include
legislative updates; evaluations,
eligibility determinations & IEPs;
related services & assistive technology;
discipline; behavioral intervention
procedures; confidentiality of student
records and most common mistakes.
$205; Four Points Hotel by Sheraton,
San Diego; sponsored by MEDS-PDN
One of Daniel Shinoff's specialties is
planning legal tactics against parents
who complain that their kids aren't
getting the right education.
SP ED AFTER REAUTHORIZATION
Title: GR K-12 SP EDUC TCHRS
Date: 3/14/2005 8:00AM
Details: Daniel Shinoff and Jack
Sleeth will present vital
information to keep you up-to-date
with the latest changes and best
practices in the implementation of IDEA
as reauthorized...agenda topics include
legislative updates; evaluations,
eligibility determinations & IEPs;
related services & assistive technology;
discipline; behavioral intervention
procedures; confidentiality of student
records and most common mistakes.
$205; Four Points Hotel by Sheraton,
San Diego; sponsored by MEDS-PDN
It's not so hard to get a
case thrown out when the
opposition is in pro per.
In two cases that I know
of, opposition lawyers
dropped their clients after
talking to Stutz, Artiano,
Shinoff & Holtz attorney
Daniel Shinoff. In one
case, Shinoff offered work
to the opposing attorney.
Obviously, the opposing
lawyer had to choose
between his client and
Shinoff. Guess whom the
lawyer chose?”
In Ray Artiano's recent
deposition, he stated
under oath that Maura
Larkins is the only one
who has complained about
Shinoff's tactics:
"... nor have we ever
had any complaints about
unethical or illegal
behavior on the part of
any attorney in my firm
other than from you."
(Page 49 Lines 4-6)
But there are four cases in
federal court in which
Daniel Shinoff is accused
of wrongdoing.
Shinoff seems to have
simply talked David A.
Stevens out of
representing Maura
Larkins. Stevens didn't
tell Larkins he was
quitting, he just stopped
doing work. Larkins
finally asked him to tell
her what was going on.
Stevens said to Larkins, "I
hope Shinoff is still my
friend." So do I, Mr.
Stevens. You'll be okay
as long as Daniel Shinoff
is your friend, along with
your mutual friend,
attorney Elizabeth
Schulman.
case thrown out when the
opposition is in pro per.
In two cases that I know
of, opposition lawyers
dropped their clients after
talking to Stutz, Artiano,
Shinoff & Holtz attorney
Daniel Shinoff. In one
case, Shinoff offered work
to the opposing attorney.
Obviously, the opposing
lawyer had to choose
between his client and
Shinoff. Guess whom the
lawyer chose?”
In Ray Artiano's recent
deposition, he stated
under oath that Maura
Larkins is the only one
who has complained about
Shinoff's tactics:
"... nor have we ever
had any complaints about
unethical or illegal
behavior on the part of
any attorney in my firm
other than from you."
(Page 49 Lines 4-6)
But there are four cases in
federal court in which
Daniel Shinoff is accused
of wrongdoing.
Shinoff seems to have
simply talked David A.
Stevens out of
representing Maura
Larkins. Stevens didn't
tell Larkins he was
quitting, he just stopped
doing work. Larkins
finally asked him to tell
her what was going on.
Stevens said to Larkins, "I
hope Shinoff is still my
friend." So do I, Mr.
Stevens. You'll be okay
as long as Daniel Shinoff
is your friend, along with
your mutual friend,
attorney Elizabeth
Schulman.
Why did opposition
lawyers suddenly
quit when Stutz law
firm was
representing public
entities?
lawyers suddenly
quit when Stutz law
firm was
representing public
entities?
There were two lawsuits in 2008 involving Guajome Park Academy Charter School
in San Diego's North County.
Attorney Daniel Shinoff of Stuz law firm is working with Guajome Park Academy's
lawyers in one case (see association of counsel in Peters v. Guajome Park
Academy), and he's representing the opposing party in the other.
Shinoff is opposing Guajome Park Academy in San Diego Superior Court:
GUAJOME PARK ACADEMY v.
NEW EDUCATION FOR THE WORKPLACE, INC
North County Civil 05/23/2007
Breach of Contract/Warranty
37-2007-00053139-CU-BC-NC
I believe this is quite unusual.
in San Diego's North County.
Attorney Daniel Shinoff of Stuz law firm is working with Guajome Park Academy's
lawyers in one case (see association of counsel in Peters v. Guajome Park
Academy), and he's representing the opposing party in the other.
Shinoff is opposing Guajome Park Academy in San Diego Superior Court:
GUAJOME PARK ACADEMY v.
NEW EDUCATION FOR THE WORKPLACE, INC
North County Civil 05/23/2007
Breach of Contract/Warranty
37-2007-00053139-CU-BC-NC
I believe this is quite unusual.
Daniel Shinoff, Stutz law firm, and Guajome Park Academy
Why did Shinoff use Werlin as a witness?
What is this law firm thinking when it sues San Diego Education Report for loss of
business? Apparently Stutz is so accustomed to having the San Diego Union Tribune and
the Chula Vista Star-News quash the stories that would embarrass Stutz, that it thinks NO
ONE has a right to report Stutz' actions on behalf of public entities.
business? Apparently Stutz is so accustomed to having the San Diego Union Tribune and
the Chula Vista Star-News quash the stories that would embarrass Stutz, that it thinks NO
ONE has a right to report Stutz' actions on behalf of public entities.
What will Daniel Shinoff do to ingratiate himself with
abusive individuals in schools?
abusive individuals in schools?
Attorneys as of Feb. 15, 2008
Gil Abed
Lisa Y. Amorino
Ray J. Artiano
Jeanne Blumenfeld
Bryan C. Becker (left)
Laura Boezeman
Paul V. Carelli, IV
Ryan L. Church
Patrice Coady
Leslie E. Devaney
Prescilla Dugard
Athanasia Economy Dalacas
Bret W. Eubank
Susan H. Gilmor
Julie D. Hazar
Lindsey J. Herana (left)
James F. Holtz
Lara A. Hoover
Scott Ingold
Andrea M. Johnson (left)
Ljubisa Kostic (left)
A. Cam Lavin
Mercedes S. Menendez
Jeffery A. Morris
Scott G. Parks
William C. Pate
David Plancarte
Richard Romero
Daniel R. Shinoff
Jack M. Sleeth, Jr.
Robert R. Templeton
Robert B. Titus
Jeffrey P. Wade, Jr.
Brandi G. Wallace
Lesa Wilson
Gil Abed
Lisa Y. Amorino
Ray J. Artiano
Jeanne Blumenfeld
Bryan C. Becker (left)
Laura Boezeman
Paul V. Carelli, IV
Ryan L. Church
Patrice Coady
Leslie E. Devaney
Prescilla Dugard
Athanasia Economy Dalacas
Bret W. Eubank
Susan H. Gilmor
Julie D. Hazar
Lindsey J. Herana (left)
James F. Holtz
Lara A. Hoover
Scott Ingold
Andrea M. Johnson (left)
Ljubisa Kostic (left)
A. Cam Lavin
Mercedes S. Menendez
Jeffery A. Morris
Scott G. Parks
William C. Pate
David Plancarte
Richard Romero
Daniel R. Shinoff
Jack M. Sleeth, Jr.
Robert R. Templeton
Robert B. Titus
Jeffrey P. Wade, Jr.
Brandi G. Wallace
Lesa Wilson
Shinoff and Sleeth
Present "The Forensics
of Special Education
Litigation"
Daniel R. Shinoff and Jack M. Sleeth
presented at the 2008 Association of
California School Administrators
Symposium on January 17, 2008 in
Monterey, California. The presentation
addressed pre-litigation strategies that
educational institutions should consider
implementing in order to prevent a
variety of civil rights claims, such as
violations of the Hughes Act or
discrimination based on disability.
Strategies include proper
documentation of all events that may
trigger a civil rights claim, and methods
to ensure that negotiations which occur
in the context of private converstation
(sic) are not damaging. The seminar
also covered issues of privileged
communications, and the interplay of
the litigation process in special
education beyond due process
procedures.
For more information or to request a
workshop, please contact us at
619-232-3122.
from Stutz website
Present "The Forensics
of Special Education
Litigation"
Daniel R. Shinoff and Jack M. Sleeth
presented at the 2008 Association of
California School Administrators
Symposium on January 17, 2008 in
Monterey, California. The presentation
addressed pre-litigation strategies that
educational institutions should consider
implementing in order to prevent a
variety of civil rights claims, such as
violations of the Hughes Act or
discrimination based on disability.
Strategies include proper
documentation of all events that may
trigger a civil rights claim, and methods
to ensure that negotiations which occur
in the context of private converstation
(sic) are not damaging. The seminar
also covered issues of privileged
communications, and the interplay of
the litigation process in special
education beyond due process
procedures.
For more information or to request a
workshop, please contact us at
619-232-3122.
from Stutz website
Thirty former Mira Costa
College officials agree
with SD Education Report
College officials agree
with SD Education Report
| How hard did Sidney Stutz try to promote ethics in his own law firm? From San Diego Metropolitan Magazine "San Diego trial attorney Sidney A. Stutz received the Daniel T. Broderick award for outstanding achievement in promoting integrity and professionalism in law. He has practiced law in San Diego for more than 30 years. He became an associate in 1961 at Schall, Nielsen and Boudreau, where he later became partner. In 1982 he co-founded Stutz, Gallagher, Artiano, Shinoff & Holtz, which has expanded to three offices and 22 attorneys, including all the original owners." |
| Sidney A. Stutz San Diego Defense Lawyers 2002 Honoree Sidney A.Stutz began practicing lawin the Navy after he graduated from Harvard Law School in 1957. Mr.Stutz’s first major case was a murder case involving a racial conflict on a ship. Throughout his 45 years of practice he has served as the President of the San Diego Defense Lawyers and as the President of the San Diego Chapter and a National Board Member of the American Board of Trial Advocates. Mr. Stutz has practiced in a number of different practice areas. While he has focused heavily on defense law, he has represented both plaintiffs and defendants and believes it is a benefit to have represented clients on both sides. In Mr. Stutz’s opinion, a trial lawyer is first and foremost an advocate for the client, no matter if the lawyer is defending or prosecuting. Mr. Stutz has significant experience in the area of professional malpractice, focusing mostly on the defense of lawyers and doctors, and has also devoted a large portion of his time to products liability cases, including mass tort representation in the breast implant area and asbestos litigation. His mass tort experience pre-sented him with management challenges due to the large number of cases involved.His representation of professionals has been very rewarding despite the challenges of representing professionals who have their own ideas about how their cases should be handled.Mr. Stutz’s advice to fellow attorneys is to maintain courtesy and civility among counsel and towards clients, persons on the opposing side, the court, and the community in general. He urges all attorneys to use their power carefully by being diligent in their practice and not abusing their powers. Continued |
| Mr. Stutz has enjoyed the practice of lawoverall. While all attorneys will find somediscomfort in their profession, he recommends attorneys who are not enjoying their jobs overall to evaluate why they are not enjoying their practice and make a change. In addition to being an exceptional attorney, Mr. Stutz has devoted a significant amount of his time and talents to the community. In his free time, he serves as the President of the Board of Directors of the Home of Guiding Hands, an organiza- tion that provides residential and vocational assistance to developmentally disabled children. Mr. Stutz became interested andinvolved in this organization because his 32year-old son is developmentally disabled. Additionally, Mr. Stutz travels to Tijuana with the Rotary Club approximately every other Saturday to work with young adults in their early to mid- teens who come from families with limited incomes. Mr. Stutz teaches the young adults English and encourages them to attain an education instead of dropping out of school. Mr. Stutz also enjoys spending time with his six children who range in age from 18 to 45 years old. He also enjoys traveling in his free time and hopes to travel more in his retirement. Mr. Stutz has been gradually retiring since 1999 and currently serves Of Counsel at Stutz, Gallagher, Artiano, Shinoff & Holtz. Mr. Stutz’s leadership and commitment to justice will be honored by the San Diego Defense Lawyers at the 2003 installation dinner. |
| The Update--Winter 2002 SDDL Distinguished Member Profiles The San Diego Defense Lawyers will honor both Dan White and Sid Stutz at the 18th Annual Installation Dinner to be held February 1, 2003. |
Why would a school district try to get an obstruction of justice lawsuit
thrown out? The district was not even a party in the case!
Why were Chula Vista Elementary School District, Stutz law firm and California Teachers
Association determined in March of 2005 that Maura Larkins' lawsuit for obstruction of justice
would not be examined on its merits?
These institutions got their wish when the court accepted a pleading filed by NON-PARTY
CVESD (!?) to protect Stutz law firm.
thrown out? The district was not even a party in the case!
Why were Chula Vista Elementary School District, Stutz law firm and California Teachers
Association determined in March of 2005 that Maura Larkins' lawsuit for obstruction of justice
would not be examined on its merits?
These institutions got their wish when the court accepted a pleading filed by NON-PARTY
CVESD (!?) to protect Stutz law firm.
How did Dan Shinoff
get unwilling
MiraCosta trustees
to get them to give
Victoria Richart a
$1.6 million
settlement?
get unwilling
MiraCosta trustees
to get them to give
Victoria Richart a
$1.6 million
settlement?
Is this news or
advertising?
According to the San Diego
Daily Transcipt, this constitutes
news, but you could have fooled
me:
"Stutz Artiano relies on
expertise to anticipate
results"
By DOUG SHERWIN,
The Daily Transcript
February 14, 2006
"One of the keys to litigating an
insurance case is experience,
which could be why so many
clients turn to the lawyers at
Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz.
Most of the partners in the firm's
19-member San Diego office
have anywhere from 13 to
25-plus years of experience in
trying cases..."
advertising?
According to the San Diego
Daily Transcipt, this constitutes
news, but you could have fooled
me:
"Stutz Artiano relies on
expertise to anticipate
results"
By DOUG SHERWIN,
The Daily Transcript
February 14, 2006
"One of the keys to litigating an
insurance case is experience,
which could be why so many
clients turn to the lawyers at
Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz.
Most of the partners in the firm's
19-member San Diego office
have anywhere from 13 to
25-plus years of experience in
trying cases..."
Training new
attorneys
attorneys
2008
Leslie Devaney is One of San Diego's 20 Most Influential Women
according to bizSanDiego
From the Stutz law firm website:
"Named as one of San Diego's 20 most influential businesswomen, Leslie Devaney was recently
profiled in bizSanDiego magazine's March 2008 publication. The women, described as using
their skills and passion to make a mark in their industries, are trailblazing paths for other
women and giving back to society..."
Maura's note:
I don't think I'm influential at all, but Leslie Devaney thinks I am.
She's suing me for defamation for what I've written on this website. I sure don't know how
she's going to prove that I interfered with her profits. No TV station or newspaper in San Diego
will cover my story, even though my school, Castle Park Elementary in Chula Vista, continues its
spectacular descent into chaos.
I believe that the school (which I attended as a child) has become so dysfunctional that it
should be removed from the control of Chula Vista Elementary School District and the state
should take it over.
P.S. During my deposition on June16, 2008 by Stutz lawyer Ljubisa (Luubisha) Kostic, I was
asked in particular about my Leslie Devaney column (right). I got the impression that one of
the 20 most influential women in San Diego is angry at this unemployed schoolteacher.
The San Diego Union Tribune and Chula Vista Star-News might leave me out of their reporting
on Castle Park Elementary, but it's gratifying to know that Leslie Devaney thinks I'm important.
Leslie Devaney is One of San Diego's 20 Most Influential Women
according to bizSanDiego
From the Stutz law firm website:
"Named as one of San Diego's 20 most influential businesswomen, Leslie Devaney was recently
profiled in bizSanDiego magazine's March 2008 publication. The women, described as using
their skills and passion to make a mark in their industries, are trailblazing paths for other
women and giving back to society..."
Maura's note:
I don't think I'm influential at all, but Leslie Devaney thinks I am.
She's suing me for defamation for what I've written on this website. I sure don't know how
she's going to prove that I interfered with her profits. No TV station or newspaper in San Diego
will cover my story, even though my school, Castle Park Elementary in Chula Vista, continues its
spectacular descent into chaos.
I believe that the school (which I attended as a child) has become so dysfunctional that it
should be removed from the control of Chula Vista Elementary School District and the state
should take it over.
P.S. During my deposition on June16, 2008 by Stutz lawyer Ljubisa (Luubisha) Kostic, I was
asked in particular about my Leslie Devaney column (right). I got the impression that one of
the 20 most influential women in San Diego is angry at this unemployed schoolteacher.
The San Diego Union Tribune and Chula Vista Star-News might leave me out of their reporting
on Castle Park Elementary, but it's gratifying to know that Leslie Devaney thinks I'm important.
| Stutz Artiano has insurance "Stutz Artiano has its roots in the insurance practice. One of its founding members, Sidney Stutz, opened a mainly insurance litigation firm with John McCormick and Glen Mitchell...." Holtz Quoted in The Daily Transcript February 16, 2006 "Stutz Artiano Relies on Expertise to Anticipate Results" by Doug Sherwin San Diego -- One of the keys to litigating an insurance case is experience, which could be why so many client firms turn to the lawyers at Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz. Most of the partners in the firm's 19-member San Diego office have anywhere from 13-25 plus years of experience in trying cases. The time in the courtroom has made the attorneys at Stutz Artiano good prognosticators. "We can evaluate liability and what the expected award will be very early on because we've seen these types of cases before," said partner Jim Holtz, who heads the firm's insurance practice. "We can identify what the likely result will be at trial ...whether a verdict will be in a certain range. "We're willing to stand by our initial or even our midstream evaluations, and then it's the carrier's choice whether to settle." Holtz recently predicted the exact amount of a case that returned an $85,000 verdict. The partners at Stutz Artiano factor the competency of opposing counsel and the facts of liability into evaluating what an expected verdict range will be. "The measure of what an insurer is looking for is not only good results at trial but no surprises," Holtz said. "The insurance industry likes to assess its risks and understand what its exposures are." Stutz Artiano has its roots in the insurance practice. One of its founding members, Sidney Stutz, opened a mainly insurance litigation firm with John McCormick and Glen Mitchell. In 1992, Stutz broke off to form what is currently Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz. The group has expanded its practice to encompass commercial law litigation, handling everything from construction and real estate matters to product liability. The firm now has four other offices, including ones in Los Angeles and Las Vegas. While the insurance practice represents only 30 percent of what the firm does, it is still prominent. "What we promote both within the firm and to our clients is we put our client's interests first," Holtz said. "It's our concern that the clients be well informed of the appropriate risk and benefits of trying a case. We do it in a way that ultimately promotes their interests." |
Stutz attorney Daniel Shinoff
VOICE OF SAN DIEGO
The Schoolhouse Lawyer Who Helped Hire His Overseer
March 2, 2009
Lawyers from a firm that has received millions of dollars in business from a in recent
years, helped it screen potential employees who later oversaw outside attorneys' work.
The Risk Management Joint Powers Authority, a public agency composed of dozens of local
school districts and run through the San Diego County Office of Education, has paid the law
firm of Stutz, Artiano, Shinoff & Holtz nearly $7 million between July 2002 and July 2008
to handle lawsuits brought against school districts.
Two shareholders in the firm, Daniel Shinoff and Jeffery Morris, have helped screen job
applicants for the agency by sitting on the first of two interview panels that candidates
undergo before being hired...link
VOICE OF SAN DIEGO
The Schoolhouse Lawyer Who Helped Hire His Overseer
March 2, 2009
Lawyers from a firm that has received millions of dollars in business from a in recent
years, helped it screen potential employees who later oversaw outside attorneys' work.
The Risk Management Joint Powers Authority, a public agency composed of dozens of local
school districts and run through the San Diego County Office of Education, has paid the law
firm of Stutz, Artiano, Shinoff & Holtz nearly $7 million between July 2002 and July 2008
to handle lawsuits brought against school districts.
Two shareholders in the firm, Daniel Shinoff and Jeffery Morris, have helped screen job
applicants for the agency by sitting on the first of two interview panels that candidates
undergo before being hired...link
SDCOE claims administrator Rodger Hartnett, who claimed that Daniel Shinoff had an
inappropriate relationship with SDCOE Risk Management executive Director Diane Crosier
and administrator Rick Rinnear, won his wrongful termination lawsuit in Superior Court in
San Diego on March 27, 2009.
inappropriate relationship with SDCOE Risk Management executive Director Diane Crosier
and administrator Rick Rinnear, won his wrongful termination lawsuit in Superior Court in
San Diego on March 27, 2009.
Rodger Harnett wins suit against Diane Crosier and
SDCOE
SDCOE
See also:
These school attorneys failed to produce documents
April 6, 2009:
Stutz defamation lawsuit trial
against this website delayed
Stutz defamation lawsuit trial
against this website delayed
Who trains new
school
attorneys?
school
attorneys?
Chula Vista Elementary School District, from 2000 to 2004 (when Cheryl Cox was on the
board and Richard Werlin was the star witness) used the skills of these attorneys to keep
documents and witnesses away from the court.
board and Richard Werlin was the star witness) used the skills of these attorneys to keep
documents and witnesses away from the court.
Officials complain about
amounts of public funds to
Attorney Daniel Shinoff
Click for recent news:
MIRACOSTA UPDATES
Oct. '07
The San Diego Union
Tribune reports on May 22,
2007 that 30 former
officials at Mira Costa
College are outraged by the
college president, Victoria
Richart. These concerned
citizens say Richart
funnelled around a million
dollars to attorney Daniel
Shinoff and school staff to
investigate "the errant, but
well-intentioned, actions of
a teacher struggling to
make her program the best
in the state."
amounts of public funds to
Attorney Daniel Shinoff
Click for recent news:
MIRACOSTA UPDATES
Oct. '07
The San Diego Union
Tribune reports on May 22,
2007 that 30 former
officials at Mira Costa
College are outraged by the
college president, Victoria
Richart. These concerned
citizens say Richart
funnelled around a million
dollars to attorney Daniel
Shinoff and school staff to
investigate "the errant, but
well-intentioned, actions of
a teacher struggling to
make her program the best
in the state."
Training
In Chula Vista Elementary School District trustees Cheryl Cox, Bertha Lopez, Pamela
Smith, Larry Cunningham and Pat Judd used the services of Daniel Shinoff of Stutz and
Mark Bresee of Parham & Rajcic when they wanted to keep the actions of teacher Robin
Donlan (and their own actions) from exposure in court.
Smith, Larry Cunningham and Pat Judd used the services of Daniel Shinoff of Stutz and
Mark Bresee of Parham & Rajcic when they wanted to keep the actions of teacher Robin
Donlan (and their own actions) from exposure in court.
If Dan Shinoff said to school
boards, "You can settle with the
damaged student, employee,
etc. for $50,000, or you can
fight it and pay me $200,000
and get your insurance
premiums increased, what
would the board members say?
boards, "You can settle with the
damaged student, employee,
etc. for $50,000, or you can
fight it and pay me $200,000
and get your insurance
premiums increased, what
would the board members say?
Stutz Lawyer Leslie Devaney
After Gallagher left, the
firm proclaimed on its
website, "Each of the
founding members of the
law firm practices with the
firm today." Stutz tried to
hide the fact that Gallagher
left the firm. (See images
of Stutz website below.)
firm proclaimed on its
website, "Each of the
founding members of the
law firm practices with the
firm today." Stutz tried to
hide the fact that Gallagher
left the firm. (See images
of Stutz website below.)
Stutz filed suit on Oct. 5,
07 for defamation against
the author of this website
07 for defamation against
the author of this website
The public interest
is served by
parents and
employees who
challenge corrupt
school districts
"The probability that we
may fail in the struggle
ought not to deter us from
the support of a cause we
believe to be just."
Abraham Lincoln the 16th
President of the United
States (1809-1865)
is served by
parents and
employees who
challenge corrupt
school districts
"The probability that we
may fail in the struggle
ought not to deter us from
the support of a cause we
believe to be just."
Abraham Lincoln the 16th
President of the United
States (1809-1865)
"This is not a private corporation. We're not organized lawbreakers. We're an open public agency that needs to hold its meetings
open to the public."
...Aguirre's most explosive action last week was his beginning an independent investigation into allegations that city employees lied
and withheld information in disclosures related to its pension deficit.
Attorney Patrick Shea, a friend of Aguirre's and one of four unpaid advisers assessing staff changes in the City Attorney's Office,
called the step essential. "There is going to be an unavoidable irritation" between Aguirre and city officials "who don't want that
kind of disclosure," Shea said. "Mike has no choice but to do what he's doing," he said. "Mike didn't create this situation. The
reality is that the financial markets do not believe the materials . . . published by the city of San Diego."
...Frank Devaney, head of the San Diego City Attorney civil division's trial unit and Leslie Devaney's husband, will leave in March
2005.
open to the public."
...Aguirre's most explosive action last week was his beginning an independent investigation into allegations that city employees lied
and withheld information in disclosures related to its pension deficit.
Attorney Patrick Shea, a friend of Aguirre's and one of four unpaid advisers assessing staff changes in the City Attorney's Office,
called the step essential. "There is going to be an unavoidable irritation" between Aguirre and city officials "who don't want that
kind of disclosure," Shea said. "Mike has no choice but to do what he's doing," he said. "Mike didn't create this situation. The
reality is that the financial markets do not believe the materials . . . published by the city of San Diego."
...Frank Devaney, head of the San Diego City Attorney civil division's trial unit and Leslie Devaney's husband, will leave in March
2005.
Mike Aguirre, San Diego's new city attorney, is fighting City Hall from within it. During his first week in office, Aguirre criticized
the city's leadership, revived a dormant public integrity unit with prosecution powers and began an investigation into
allegations of accounting fraud by city officials. "We will work to restore government integrity," Aguirre said at his swearing-in
ceremony Monday. "The City Attorney's Office will not remain on the sidelines and watch San Diego slide deeper into the financial
abyss."...
Aguirre said his top priority is erasing the stain of a city fiscal crisis marked by a billion-dollar pension deficit, two overdue annual
audits and a borrowing ability so crippled that new water and wastewater projects are on hold. The city's finances are being
investigated by the FBI, the U.S. Attorney's Office and the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Aguirre said solving the crisis will require disclosing its extent, depths and breaking a chain of closed-door City Council meetings
about it. "It just invites disrespect and concern when we're meeting in closed session talking about criminal investigations of city
officials," he said.
the city's leadership, revived a dormant public integrity unit with prosecution powers and began an investigation into
allegations of accounting fraud by city officials. "We will work to restore government integrity," Aguirre said at his swearing-in
ceremony Monday. "The City Attorney's Office will not remain on the sidelines and watch San Diego slide deeper into the financial
abyss."...
Aguirre said his top priority is erasing the stain of a city fiscal crisis marked by a billion-dollar pension deficit, two overdue annual
audits and a borrowing ability so crippled that new water and wastewater projects are on hold. The city's finances are being
investigated by the FBI, the U.S. Attorney's Office and the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Aguirre said solving the crisis will require disclosing its extent, depths and breaking a chain of closed-door City Council meetings
about it. "It just invites disrespect and concern when we're meeting in closed session talking about criminal investigations of city
officials," he said.
Outsider moves in for a fight against City Hall
San Diego Union Tribune
By Matthew T. Hall
December 12, 2004
San Diego Union Tribune
By Matthew T. Hall
December 12, 2004
| Daniel Shinoff, Kelly Angell Minnehan, and Jeffery Morris ushered in an era of extreme dysfunction at Castle Park Elementary School in Chula Vista. Stutz' witnesses contradicted each other, contradicted themselves, and contradicted documentary evidence. When the superintendent transferred some of them out of the school--after the district had paid huge sums of taxpayer money to defend them--Stutz' witnesses went to the press to attack the superintendent. |
| This letter will be covered up until the appeals regarding Judge Judith Hayes' handling of the Stutz defamation case are completed. |
Attorneys as of May 22, 2009
Gil Abed
Lisa Y. Amorino
Ray J. Artiano
Jeanne Blumenfeld
Laura Boezeman
Christina M. Cameron (new)
Paul V. Carelli, IV
Ryan L. Church
Patrice Coady
Leslie E. Devaney
Prescilla Dugard
Athanasia Economy Dalacas
Bret W. Eubank
Ndubisi Ezeolu (new)
Susan H. Gilmor
Jacob Gould (new)
Julie D. Hazar
James F. Holtz
Lara A. Hoover
Scott Ingold
A. Cam Lavin
Robert M. Mahlowitz (new)
Caroline Marodi (new)
Michelle Meek (new)
Mercedes S. Menendez
Jeffery A. Morris
Scott G. Parks
Lee T. Patajo
William C. Pate
David R. Plancarte
Casey Pope (new)
Richard E. Romero
Casey Shaw (new)
Daniel R. Shinoff
Jack M. Sleeth, Jr.
Robert R. Templeton
Robert B. Titus
Jeffrey P. Wade, Jr.
Brandi G. Wallace
Lesa Wilson
Gil Abed
Lisa Y. Amorino
Ray J. Artiano
Jeanne Blumenfeld
Laura Boezeman
Christina M. Cameron (new)
Paul V. Carelli, IV
Ryan L. Church
Patrice Coady
Leslie E. Devaney
Prescilla Dugard
Athanasia Economy Dalacas
Bret W. Eubank
Ndubisi Ezeolu (new)
Susan H. Gilmor
Jacob Gould (new)
Julie D. Hazar
James F. Holtz
Lara A. Hoover
Scott Ingold
A. Cam Lavin
Robert M. Mahlowitz (new)
Caroline Marodi (new)
Michelle Meek (new)
Mercedes S. Menendez
Jeffery A. Morris
Scott G. Parks
Lee T. Patajo
William C. Pate
David R. Plancarte
Casey Pope (new)
Richard E. Romero
Casey Shaw (new)
Daniel R. Shinoff
Jack M. Sleeth, Jr.
Robert R. Templeton
Robert B. Titus
Jeffrey P. Wade, Jr.
Brandi G. Wallace
Lesa Wilson
New judge Frank Devaney
from the office of California Governor 01/24/2005
Governor Schwarzenegger Appoints Two Judges to the San Diego County Superior Court..
Devaney, 50, of San Diego, has served in the San Diego City Attorney’s office for more than 21 years. He began as a deputy city attorney in the Criminal
Division in 1983. He then moved to the Civil Litigation Division where he handled defense of personal injury complaints, writs and appeals. In 2001,
Devaney became head deputy city attorney in the Trial Unit of the Civil Division where he managed the selection, training, supervision and mentoring of
25 deputy city attorneys. Devaney has also served as a workshop leader for the San Diego Inn of Court trial practice and evidence workshop programs
since 1994 and currently serves as a Master of the Enright Inn of Court.
Devaney earned a Juris Doctorate from Santa Clara University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hobart College. He is a member of the
San Diego County Bar Association and the California State Bar Association. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Vincent P. DiFiglia.
Devaney is registered decline-to-state.
from the office of California Governor 01/24/2005
Governor Schwarzenegger Appoints Two Judges to the San Diego County Superior Court..
Devaney, 50, of San Diego, has served in the San Diego City Attorney’s office for more than 21 years. He began as a deputy city attorney in the Criminal
Division in 1983. He then moved to the Civil Litigation Division where he handled defense of personal injury complaints, writs and appeals. In 2001,
Devaney became head deputy city attorney in the Trial Unit of the Civil Division where he managed the selection, training, supervision and mentoring of
25 deputy city attorneys. Devaney has also served as a workshop leader for the San Diego Inn of Court trial practice and evidence workshop programs
since 1994 and currently serves as a Master of the Enright Inn of Court.
Devaney earned a Juris Doctorate from Santa Clara University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hobart College. He is a member of the
San Diego County Bar Association and the California State Bar Association. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Vincent P. DiFiglia.
Devaney is registered decline-to-state.
Dan Shinoff's winning
declaration (after
refusing to be deposed
or to turn over
documents)
declaration (after
refusing to be deposed
or to turn over
documents)
The Collateral Damage of Aguirre's Furies
Voice of San Diego
December 12, 2005
Well, it's been a long year at City Hall. City Attorney Mike Aguirre has certainly
shaken up city government and redefined the role of the city attorney. His actions
remind me of the quote from Shakespeare's "Macbeth": "Full of sound
and fury, signifying nothing."
Despite the numerous public discussions, debates and frequently
embarrassing displays about who is right on the
issue of the proper role of the city attorney, the fact
remains that Aguirre has redefined the city attorney position in a way not
previously seen in San Diego or anywhere else in the state.
Let's look closer at what has occurred in the Office of the City Attorney since
Aguirre was elected. Within one year, he has either dismissed or driven out more
than 50 staff members from his office, including dozens of very experienced
attorneys. The most common phrases I hear from those who remain are, "I'm
trying to get out," "I'm looking," or "I'm keeping my head low and out of his way."
Workers, whether they are in public or private practice, just can't work efficiently
when their attention is focused on looking for another job or avoiding their boss.
Aguirre has engaged in unethical legal practices
that conflict with his role as city attorney and the role of his office.
Rather than represent and advise the mayor, city
council and city departments, he has constantly
accused them of wrongdoing, investigated them,
called them names and generally butted heads with them wherever and whenever
possible.
He has also issued legal opinions contrary to the city's already-pled litigation
defenses being pursued by his own attorneys in the sewage fee case and in the
Mount Soledad cross controversy, and has recently done a similar disservice to
the city with his condo-conversion opinion. That's not what I would call
"representing the client."
It's now been a year since Aguirre took office, yet I can't recall any completed
projects or new programs initiated by him that have made San Diego a better city.
Recommendations for improvement, if ever they are made, are held in abeyance
until reports or investigations are complete. I've lost count of the number of his
investigations -- nevermind his suggestions of what should be investigated like
the alleged fraud that he said last year may have unfairly kept the Cal Berkeley
football team out of a BCS bowl game.
Oh, and what happened to the investigations about the San Diego Food Bank,
sewage fees, gasoline price gouging, the NTC contract, under-reporting of crime
statistics, counting votes on election day, and the Torrey Pines golf tee times?
Aguirre is looking a lot like Don Quixote fighting windmills with these incessant,
never-completed investigations.
Yet, you can add me to the majority of San Diegans who actually believe that at
least someone stepped forward to lead the city while there was a power vacuum
at City Hall.
However, there has been little serious discussion
about what the cost to the city has been, and will
be, in money, morals, reputation and values when
that leadership comes from bullying,
threatening, name-calling and untrustworthy,
unethical behavior. Do we want our elected
officials to behave in a way that we wouldn't
tolerate in our own children?
On whatever side you happen to fall (assuming there are only two) about whether
or not the city attorney should be setting policy for the city, you should recognize
that, at some point, a train wreck is bound to happen
when our elected policy makers cannot or will not
ask their attorney for advice.
If they aren't talking to their attorney -- and trust me, they are not -- then they either
get no advice, or they seek and get advice from persons
who are not accountable to the electorate.
So, under the guise or mantra of "open and transparent government," the very
people in the system who need to change the way they operate are now seeking
advice from unidentified people not accountable to you and me. Why? Because
their attorney constantly threatens them with investigation, prosecution or lawsuits
at every turn.
It may be that the only people who will feel brave or comfortable enough to step
forward in the future to serve on the city council, in city government, on boards and
commissions, or in the city attorney's office itself, are those people to whom
Aguirre has granted immunity from one of his investigations.
My advice to Mike is this: Before you launch another investigation and hold another
press conference, do what ethical attorneys do -- confer
with your client. Exhibit some leadership by concluding your reports.
Make recommendations for improvement. Be respectful of those who are
mentioned in your written documents. Stop constantly hinting at
culpability. Use only proven facts. Stop posturing.
Recognize that the only way you will be able to effect positive change in the city is if
city officials and employees trust your motives and the way you approach issues.
Only then will they willingly consult you. People will never consult
with you if they believe they will become a source
or subject for your next day's press release or
newspaper headline. People simply do not want to find their names
in the newspaper or in one of your so-called investigations.
Develop some positive ideas or programs that will improve neighborhoods,
provide better access to government and cut red tape in the city bureaucracy,
rather than constantly seek publicity by press releases and press conferences.
Maybe, just maybe, you could go down in San Diego's history as someone who
made a positive change rather than someone who launched a thousand
incomplete investigations and really "shook things up at City Hall."
The collateral damage that will result if Aguirre
continues to operate as he has over the last year
will be devastating to the city in the long run
unless he changes course.
While his actions now might "feel good" and be
appealing to the general public, they have
consequences that will indeed be painful in the
years to come.
I hope I'm wrong.
Leslie E. Devaney is a partner at the law firm of Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz. She
ran against Aguirre for city attorney in 2004 and lost by a 0.8 percent margin.
Voice of San Diego
December 12, 2005
Well, it's been a long year at City Hall. City Attorney Mike Aguirre has certainly
shaken up city government and redefined the role of the city attorney. His actions
remind me of the quote from Shakespeare's "Macbeth": "Full of sound
and fury, signifying nothing."
Despite the numerous public discussions, debates and frequently
embarrassing displays about who is right on the
issue of the proper role of the city attorney, the fact
remains that Aguirre has redefined the city attorney position in a way not
previously seen in San Diego or anywhere else in the state.
Let's look closer at what has occurred in the Office of the City Attorney since
Aguirre was elected. Within one year, he has either dismissed or driven out more
than 50 staff members from his office, including dozens of very experienced
attorneys. The most common phrases I hear from those who remain are, "I'm
trying to get out," "I'm looking," or "I'm keeping my head low and out of his way."
Workers, whether they are in public or private practice, just can't work efficiently
when their attention is focused on looking for another job or avoiding their boss.
Aguirre has engaged in unethical legal practices
that conflict with his role as city attorney and the role of his office.
Rather than represent and advise the mayor, city
council and city departments, he has constantly
accused them of wrongdoing, investigated them,
called them names and generally butted heads with them wherever and whenever
possible.
He has also issued legal opinions contrary to the city's already-pled litigation
defenses being pursued by his own attorneys in the sewage fee case and in the
Mount Soledad cross controversy, and has recently done a similar disservice to
the city with his condo-conversion opinion. That's not what I would call
"representing the client."
It's now been a year since Aguirre took office, yet I can't recall any completed
projects or new programs initiated by him that have made San Diego a better city.
Recommendations for improvement, if ever they are made, are held in abeyance
until reports or investigations are complete. I've lost count of the number of his
investigations -- nevermind his suggestions of what should be investigated like
the alleged fraud that he said last year may have unfairly kept the Cal Berkeley
football team out of a BCS bowl game.
Oh, and what happened to the investigations about the San Diego Food Bank,
sewage fees, gasoline price gouging, the NTC contract, under-reporting of crime
statistics, counting votes on election day, and the Torrey Pines golf tee times?
Aguirre is looking a lot like Don Quixote fighting windmills with these incessant,
never-completed investigations.
Yet, you can add me to the majority of San Diegans who actually believe that at
least someone stepped forward to lead the city while there was a power vacuum
at City Hall.
However, there has been little serious discussion
about what the cost to the city has been, and will
be, in money, morals, reputation and values when
that leadership comes from bullying,
threatening, name-calling and untrustworthy,
unethical behavior. Do we want our elected
officials to behave in a way that we wouldn't
tolerate in our own children?
On whatever side you happen to fall (assuming there are only two) about whether
or not the city attorney should be setting policy for the city, you should recognize
that, at some point, a train wreck is bound to happen
when our elected policy makers cannot or will not
ask their attorney for advice.
If they aren't talking to their attorney -- and trust me, they are not -- then they either
get no advice, or they seek and get advice from persons
who are not accountable to the electorate.
So, under the guise or mantra of "open and transparent government," the very
people in the system who need to change the way they operate are now seeking
advice from unidentified people not accountable to you and me. Why? Because
their attorney constantly threatens them with investigation, prosecution or lawsuits
at every turn.
It may be that the only people who will feel brave or comfortable enough to step
forward in the future to serve on the city council, in city government, on boards and
commissions, or in the city attorney's office itself, are those people to whom
Aguirre has granted immunity from one of his investigations.
My advice to Mike is this: Before you launch another investigation and hold another
press conference, do what ethical attorneys do -- confer
with your client. Exhibit some leadership by concluding your reports.
Make recommendations for improvement. Be respectful of those who are
mentioned in your written documents. Stop constantly hinting at
culpability. Use only proven facts. Stop posturing.
Recognize that the only way you will be able to effect positive change in the city is if
city officials and employees trust your motives and the way you approach issues.
Only then will they willingly consult you. People will never consult
with you if they believe they will become a source
or subject for your next day's press release or
newspaper headline. People simply do not want to find their names
in the newspaper or in one of your so-called investigations.
Develop some positive ideas or programs that will improve neighborhoods,
provide better access to government and cut red tape in the city bureaucracy,
rather than constantly seek publicity by press releases and press conferences.
Maybe, just maybe, you could go down in San Diego's history as someone who
made a positive change rather than someone who launched a thousand
incomplete investigations and really "shook things up at City Hall."
The collateral damage that will result if Aguirre
continues to operate as he has over the last year
will be devastating to the city in the long run
unless he changes course.
While his actions now might "feel good" and be
appealing to the general public, they have
consequences that will indeed be painful in the
years to come.
I hope I'm wrong.
Leslie E. Devaney is a partner at the law firm of Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz. She
ran against Aguirre for city attorney in 2004 and lost by a 0.8 percent margin.
discussions about what the cost to the city was, and will be, in
deal.
Leslie Devaney's law firm went to court to get a ruling that I
could not accuse her law firm of intimidation.
deal.
Leslie Devaney's law firm went to court to get a ruling that I
could not accuse her law firm of intimidation.
A train wreck did occur when the previous city council asked
the city attorney's office for advice when Leslie Devaney
was second in command in that office. The city may very
well end up declaring bankruptcy due to the secret
agreement to underfund the pension, leaving the city over a
billion dollars in debt to the pension fund. The SEC
investigated the dishonesty toward bond holders.
Leslie Devaney thinks office holders should not be
accountable, but rather have the city attorney help them
avoid responsibility for their actions.
the city attorney's office for advice when Leslie Devaney
was second in command in that office. The city may very
well end up declaring bankruptcy due to the secret
agreement to underfund the pension, leaving the city over a
billion dollars in debt to the pension fund. The SEC
investigated the dishonesty toward bond holders.
Leslie Devaney thinks office holders should not be
accountable, but rather have the city attorney help them
avoid responsibility for their actions.
This reminds me of Daniel Shinoff's actions
as lawyer for MiraCosta College.
as lawyer for MiraCosta College.
Leslie Devaney
expresses her views:
expresses her views:
Responses by Maura
Larkins and Dale Peterson
Larkins and Dale Peterson
It's important to remember that Leslie Devaney would be one
of the people scrutinized in such an investigation.
Page 1
lNTERIM REPORT NO. 26
ONGOING lNTERNAL REVENUE CODE
ISSUES RELATlNC TO PRESIDENTIAL
LEAVE BENEFlTS
30 April 2002, City officials granted two union presidents'
requests to use their union salaries to calculate their City
pensions. Permitting union employees to participate iii the City
pension raised tax questions. To address these tax law
questions, the City retained attorney Michael Changaris to
issue an opinion.
'On that same day, former Assistant City Attoiney Leslie
Devaney left a phone message seeking advice:
"Mike Changaris Tax Attorney 5 15-3252 Leslie Devaney
wants you to call him directly re Union President being paid
by City and tax implications. He is expecting your call."74
of the people scrutinized in such an investigation.
Page 1
lNTERIM REPORT NO. 26
ONGOING lNTERNAL REVENUE CODE
ISSUES RELATlNC TO PRESIDENTIAL
LEAVE BENEFlTS
30 April 2002, City officials granted two union presidents'
requests to use their union salaries to calculate their City
pensions. Permitting union employees to participate iii the City
pension raised tax questions. To address these tax law
questions, the City retained attorney Michael Changaris to
issue an opinion.
'On that same day, former Assistant City Attoiney Leslie
Devaney left a phone message seeking advice:
"Mike Changaris Tax Attorney 5 15-3252 Leslie Devaney
wants you to call him directly re Union President being paid
by City and tax implications. He is expecting your call."74
"...'Leslie Devaney is the city attorney's liaison to the Mayor
and City Council and she is responsible for interpreting the
Brown Act for them.' Aguirre added that, while he has
represented clients in two successful lawsuits against the
city for violating the Brown Act (one of the plaintiffs, veteran
community activist Mel Shapiro, was in the audience at the
forum), thanks to Devaney's advice it will be a lot more
difficult to win such suits in the future because she told the
City Councilmembers not to take their own notes during
closed sessions but to rely on a city attorney's staff
member to do it for them."
--Who Owns the San Diego City Attorney?
sandiego.indymedia.org
and City Council and she is responsible for interpreting the
Brown Act for them.' Aguirre added that, while he has
represented clients in two successful lawsuits against the
city for violating the Brown Act (one of the plaintiffs, veteran
community activist Mel Shapiro, was in the audience at the
forum), thanks to Devaney's advice it will be a lot more
difficult to win such suits in the future because she told the
City Councilmembers not to take their own notes during
closed sessions but to rely on a city attorney's staff
member to do it for them."
--Who Owns the San Diego City Attorney?
sandiego.indymedia.org
| Star-News article quoting Felicia Starr and Kim Simmons. |
| Robin Donlan deposition Peggie Myers deposition |
ANAHEIM UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 501 Crescent Way po
Box 3520 ...
Increase amount of consulting agreement for Stutz Artiano Shinoff
& Holtz, APC, .... He said he also attended the Anaheim High
School football banquet and ...
www.auhsd.us/ourpages/board/.../02-22-2007%20Minutes.pdf -
Similar -
Feb. 3, 2010 Stutz law firm lawyers
Gil Abed
Lisa Y. Amorino
Ray J. Artiano
Jeanne Blumenfeld
Laura Boezeman
Christina M. Cameron
Paul V. Carelli, IV
Ryan L. Church
Patrice Coady
Leslie E. Devaney
Assistant City Attorney of San Diego under Casey
Gwinn
Prescilla Dugard
Deputy City Attorney of San Diego under Casey
Gwinn--Letter to William Griffith re hotel Mission
Bay March 28, 2001
Athanasia Economy Dalacas
Bret W. Eubank
Ndubisi Ezeolu
Susan H. Gilmor
Jacob Gould
Caroline A. Harvey
Julie D. Hazar
James F. Holtz
Lara A. Hoover
Scott Ingold
A. Cam Lavin
Robert M. Mahlowitz
Michelle Meek
Mercedes S. Menendez
Jeffery A. Morris
Scott G. Parks
Lee T. Patajo
William C. Pate
David R. Plancarte
Casey Pope
Richard E. Romero
Barry J. Schultz
Casey Shaw
Daniel R. Shinoff
Jack M. Sleeth, Jr.
Marguerite (Peggy) Strand
Robert R. Templeton
Robert B. Titus
Jeffrey P. Wade, Jr.
Brandi G. Wallace
Lesa Wilson
Gil Abed
Lisa Y. Amorino
Ray J. Artiano
Jeanne Blumenfeld
Laura Boezeman
Christina M. Cameron
Paul V. Carelli, IV
Ryan L. Church
Patrice Coady
Leslie E. Devaney
Assistant City Attorney of San Diego under Casey
Gwinn
Prescilla Dugard
Deputy City Attorney of San Diego under Casey
Gwinn--Letter to William Griffith re hotel Mission
Bay March 28, 2001
Athanasia Economy Dalacas
Bret W. Eubank
Ndubisi Ezeolu
Susan H. Gilmor
Jacob Gould
Caroline A. Harvey
Julie D. Hazar
James F. Holtz
Lara A. Hoover
Scott Ingold
A. Cam Lavin
Robert M. Mahlowitz
Michelle Meek
Mercedes S. Menendez
Jeffery A. Morris
Scott G. Parks
Lee T. Patajo
William C. Pate
David R. Plancarte
Casey Pope
Richard E. Romero
Barry J. Schultz
Casey Shaw
Daniel R. Shinoff
Jack M. Sleeth, Jr.
Marguerite (Peggy) Strand
Robert R. Templeton
Robert B. Titus
Jeffrey P. Wade, Jr.
Brandi G. Wallace
Lesa Wilson
Ray Artiano doesn't like to talk about the fact that Robert
Gallagher also founded Stutz law firm in 1982.
Gallagher also founded Stutz law firm in 1982.
If Ray Artiano wants to obtain a verdict on the facts in his defamation
lawsuit against this website, he is going to have to talk about the
complaint of obstruction of justice sent to the firm by this author in
December 2003, just before Mr. Gallagher decided to move to Higgins,
Fletcher and Mack.
Of course, Mr. Artiano doesn't want a finding of facts. He wants the case
remanded to state court, where he trusts that justice will be perverted,
and he will be able to prevail simply because his law firm works for public
entities, and the state courts tend to protect public entities. The California
Court of Appeal is responsible for this situation, since it tends to overturn
even the most justifiable jury verdicts without rhyme or reason. Given
this situation, Superior Court judges know that even though Stutz'
opponents have the truth and the law on their side, they will most likely
bankrupt themselves fighting the case, without a chance of obtaining
justice in the end.
lawsuit against this website, he is going to have to talk about the
complaint of obstruction of justice sent to the firm by this author in
December 2003, just before Mr. Gallagher decided to move to Higgins,
Fletcher and Mack.
Of course, Mr. Artiano doesn't want a finding of facts. He wants the case
remanded to state court, where he trusts that justice will be perverted,
and he will be able to prevail simply because his law firm works for public
entities, and the state courts tend to protect public entities. The California
Court of Appeal is responsible for this situation, since it tends to overturn
even the most justifiable jury verdicts without rhyme or reason. Given
this situation, Superior Court judges know that even though Stutz'
opponents have the truth and the law on their side, they will most likely
bankrupt themselves fighting the case, without a chance of obtaining
justice in the end.
In his deposition, Ray Artiano referred to Bob Gallagher as an "employee"
who left the firm.
who left the firm.
Education and Employment Law
Practice
June 10, 2010
Associate Derek Paradis has joined
Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz and will
focus his practice on civil litigation
matters involving education,
employment, hospitality and general
business law. Mr. Paradis represents
public entities and school districts, as
well as private businesses of all sizes.
Mr. Paradis is a graduate of Thomas
Jefferson School of Law and earned
his Bachelor of Science degree in
Hotel Management from University of
Nevada, Las Vegas. Mr. Paradis
worked in real estate and in hotel
management in Las Vegas, including
his last position as Assistant Manager
of the 5,000-room MGM Grand Hotel
and Casino, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Mr. Paradis is a member of the San
Diego Hotel Motel Association
Practice
June 10, 2010
Associate Derek Paradis has joined
Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz and will
focus his practice on civil litigation
matters involving education,
employment, hospitality and general
business law. Mr. Paradis represents
public entities and school districts, as
well as private businesses of all sizes.
Mr. Paradis is a graduate of Thomas
Jefferson School of Law and earned
his Bachelor of Science degree in
Hotel Management from University of
Nevada, Las Vegas. Mr. Paradis
worked in real estate and in hotel
management in Las Vegas, including
his last position as Assistant Manager
of the 5,000-room MGM Grand Hotel
and Casino, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Mr. Paradis is a member of the San
Diego Hotel Motel Association
San Diego
Education Report
Education Report
Why This Website
Stutz Artiano Shinoff
& Holtz v. Maura
Larkins defamation
SDCOE
CVESD
Castle Park
Elementary School
Law Enforcement
CTA
CVE
Stutz Artiano Shinoff
& Holtz
Silence is Golden
Schools and Violence
Office Admin Hearings
Larkins OAH Hearing
Stutz Artiano Shinoff
& Holtz v. Maura
Larkins defamation
SDCOE
CVESD
Castle Park
Elementary School
Law Enforcement
CTA
CVE
Stutz Artiano Shinoff
& Holtz
Silence is Golden
Schools and Violence
Office Admin Hearings
Larkins OAH Hearing
UPDATE: When I wrote the following article I
believed that Stutz law firm would be required by
Judge Judith Hayes to actually present some
evidence if it wanted to win. It turned out that
Stutz won a summary judgment based on a
three-page declaration by Daniel Shinoff, who
had refused to be deposed or to produce
documents. The declaration of Maura Larkins
was not considered by the court.
believed that Stutz law firm would be required by
Judge Judith Hayes to actually present some
evidence if it wanted to win. It turned out that
Stutz won a summary judgment based on a
three-page declaration by Daniel Shinoff, who
had refused to be deposed or to produce
documents. The declaration of Maura Larkins
was not considered by the court.
Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz Announces 30th Year Anniversary
Press Release: Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz APC
Jan. 19, 2012
Yahoo
SAN DIEGO, CA--(Marketwire -01/19/12)- Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz is
pleased to announce its 30th year in business. The law firm,
headquartered in Liberty Station since 2006, first opened in downtown
San Diego on January 15, 1982. The firm has grown from a three-lawyer
operation to forty-one lawyers, and has become one of San Diego's
largest "home grown" law firms. Stutz Artiano has expanded to represent
clients throughout Southern California with additional offices in Orange
County and the Inland Empire, as well as Las Vegas, Nevada.
The firm was founded to provide a wide range of legal services to private
and public companies as well as public entities. Stutz Artiano has
expanded on that successful foundation to offer full service lawyer teams
advising in Litigation, Public Schools and Community College Education,
Employment, General Counsel/Municipal Law, Public Entity, Land Use and
Regulation, Construction and Bonding, as well as Campaign, Election, and
Ethics. By 2001, Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz was named in the national
magazine, Corporate Board Member, as one of the top five law firms in
San Diego. Lawyers in the firm have won numerous awards of distinction
including "Dan Broderick Award," "Super Lawyer," "Most Influential
Business Women," "Best Young Lawyers," and "Inland Empire Best
Attorneys."
Stutz Artiano had much to celebrate in 2011. The firm has advised clients
on important cutting-edge projects, such as the San Diego Community
College District's 1.5 billion bond measure where the District won "Public
Owner of the Year" by the San Diego Associated General Contractors
Association. Also selected as "Project of the Year, 2011" by the American
Public Works Association was the firm's Power Purchase Agreement and
site license for San Diego Community College District's solar system.
"We are especially pleased when our clients are recognized for projects or
reforms where we're fortunate enough to be part of their team. Client
service always has been and remains our number one priority," said Ray
Artiano, Managing Partner at Stutz Artiano.
The firm understands how important it is to give back to the community
and assisted financially following 9/11, Hurricane Katrina and the
tragedies in Haiti and Japan. Attorneys at the firm are active on such
non-profit boards as the YMCA, Victory Campaign Board, Temecula
Foundation for Excellence, Mental Health America of San Diego, the San
Diego Police Foundation and the Crime Victims Fund.
Stutz Artiano will celebrate its 30th year anniversary continuing its tradition
by supporting several initiatives that promote ethics through business
management training. The firm will also sponsor a series of scholarships
promoting excellence in ethics. A celebration of the firm's 30th anniversary
will be commemorated by a party in the spring for its current clients and
staff. For more information, see www.stutzartiano.com.
Press Release: Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz APC
Jan. 19, 2012
Yahoo
SAN DIEGO, CA--(Marketwire -01/19/12)- Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz is
pleased to announce its 30th year in business. The law firm,
headquartered in Liberty Station since 2006, first opened in downtown
San Diego on January 15, 1982. The firm has grown from a three-lawyer
operation to forty-one lawyers, and has become one of San Diego's
largest "home grown" law firms. Stutz Artiano has expanded to represent
clients throughout Southern California with additional offices in Orange
County and the Inland Empire, as well as Las Vegas, Nevada.
The firm was founded to provide a wide range of legal services to private
and public companies as well as public entities. Stutz Artiano has
expanded on that successful foundation to offer full service lawyer teams
advising in Litigation, Public Schools and Community College Education,
Employment, General Counsel/Municipal Law, Public Entity, Land Use and
Regulation, Construction and Bonding, as well as Campaign, Election, and
Ethics. By 2001, Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz was named in the national
magazine, Corporate Board Member, as one of the top five law firms in
San Diego. Lawyers in the firm have won numerous awards of distinction
including "Dan Broderick Award," "Super Lawyer," "Most Influential
Business Women," "Best Young Lawyers," and "Inland Empire Best
Attorneys."
Stutz Artiano had much to celebrate in 2011. The firm has advised clients
on important cutting-edge projects, such as the San Diego Community
College District's 1.5 billion bond measure where the District won "Public
Owner of the Year" by the San Diego Associated General Contractors
Association. Also selected as "Project of the Year, 2011" by the American
Public Works Association was the firm's Power Purchase Agreement and
site license for San Diego Community College District's solar system.
"We are especially pleased when our clients are recognized for projects or
reforms where we're fortunate enough to be part of their team. Client
service always has been and remains our number one priority," said Ray
Artiano, Managing Partner at Stutz Artiano.
The firm understands how important it is to give back to the community
and assisted financially following 9/11, Hurricane Katrina and the
tragedies in Haiti and Japan. Attorneys at the firm are active on such
non-profit boards as the YMCA, Victory Campaign Board, Temecula
Foundation for Excellence, Mental Health America of San Diego, the San
Diego Police Foundation and the Crime Victims Fund.
Stutz Artiano will celebrate its 30th year anniversary continuing its tradition
by supporting several initiatives that promote ethics through business
management training. The firm will also sponsor a series of scholarships
promoting excellence in ethics. A celebration of the firm's 30th anniversary
will be commemorated by a party in the spring for its current clients and
staff. For more information, see www.stutzartiano.com.
Aug. 5, 2011
Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz loses against third-grade
teacher in California Court of Appeal:
Decision in Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz v. Maura Larkins
overturns "exceedingly broad" unconstitutional injunction obtained
by Stutz against this website.
Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz loses against third-grade
teacher in California Court of Appeal:
Decision in Stutz Artiano Shinoff & Holtz v. Maura Larkins
overturns "exceedingly broad" unconstitutional injunction obtained
by Stutz against this website.
Feb. 2012
Dan Shinoff, Jack Sleeth lose for Solana Beach School District in Ninth Circuit. Justice says,
"Nobody in their right economic mind would be carrying this case to the Ninth
Circuit ...
"It seems to me, and I don't blame you necessarily, I just want to be clear. This
whole dispute is about counsel [attorney] fees, isn't it?"
Dan Shinoff, Jack Sleeth lose for Solana Beach School District in Ninth Circuit. Justice says,
"Nobody in their right economic mind would be carrying this case to the Ninth
Circuit ...
"It seems to me, and I don't blame you necessarily, I just want to be clear. This
whole dispute is about counsel [attorney] fees, isn't it?"