ORANGE COAST MAGAZINE
2026 LEGAL BESTOFOC
SHERAK LAW GROUP
EASTON & EASTON
AN LAW
AVREK LAW FIRM
BRIDGE LAW, LLP
FORRESTER LOPEZ APC
GOKAL LAW GROUP, INC.
SAMER HABBAS & ASSOCIATES, PC
FOROOTAN ADR
ARMOND WILSON LLP
RON CORDOVA ATTORNEY AT LAW
HART KIENLE PENTECOST
TBW LAW
LONG BEACH LAW, INC., APLC
LARA & LUNA APC
BROWN & STREZA LLP
GARELICK FAMILY LAW, PC
ROBINSON CALCAGNIE, INC.
LAW OFFICES OF INDU SRIVASTAV, APLC
WELCOME TO ORANGE COAST MAGAZINE’S
2026 BEST OF O.C. LEGAL
For this year’s selection process, we brought our legal honors in-house under the guidance of a former publisher of Super Lawyers. To ensure a thoughtful and well-rounded approach, we partnered with a thirdparty data team to survey attorneys, reviewed other reputable rankings and applied our own perspective to inform the nal selections.
Most importantly, we spoke directly with members of the local legal community. We asked attorneys whom they trust with referrals, and we sought recommendations from individuals in our network who have hired legal counsel. While some honorees appear on multiple recognized lists, it was equally important for us to highlight attorneys who, through our research, are doing meaningful work and are accessible to meet the legal needs of our readers.
THE FINE PRINT
is issue does not include the full list of honorees, and those featured primarily represent consumerfocused practice areas. e complete list will be available online, and both the print and digital editions will be accessible at orangecoast.com and distributed through our newsletters.
is is just the beginning. You will see expanded legal coverage in future issues. We welcome your feedback, and if you are seeking legal representation, we encourage you to consider the attorneys featured in Best of O.C. Legal as a starting point.
LAWYERS
OF NOTE
Here are 10 notable attorneys we are highlighting as part of this year’s Best of O.C. Legal, ahead of the list of honorees.
John Hueston Business Litigation
Edward Susolik Business Litigation
Jennifer Keller Business Litigation
Geraldine Ly Workers’ Compensation
Brian Seastrom
Family Law
Mark Minyard Family Law
Michael Morris Family Law
David Sherak Estate Planning
Gregory Bentley Personal Injury
Keith More Personal Injury
Shirin Forootan, Employment Law, serves as president of the Orange County Bar Association, one of the largest voluntary bar associations in California with approximately 7,000 members. The organization provides resources that support its mission to enhance the system of justice, support the lawyers who serve it and assist the communities they represent.
S SHERAK LAW GROUP
Guided by Respect. Strengthened by Collaboration.
herak Law Group approaches the practice of law with a philosophy rooted in respect, clarity and collaboration. The firm guides clients through complex legal matters, including tax, estate planning, probate, trust administration and estate and trust litigation, with a focus on providing confidence and peace of mind during often challenging times.
At the core of the firm’s success is its collaborative model. While each attorney brings a distinct background and area of
expertise, it is their collective approach that defines the client experience. By working together on matters, the team draws on a broad range of perspectives to develop thoughtful, practical solutions tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.
“Our collaborative approach is designed to leverage each attorney’s skills, experience and knowledge to help solve even the most complex issues,” says founder David Sherak.
With more than 26 years of experience, Sherak advises Southern California businesses
and families on sophisticated estate planning strategies, with particular attention to tax implications. His experience extends beyond planning to defending those strategies during audits, offering clients a comprehensive and informed perspective. As a business owner, Sherak understands the realities his clients face, and as a father of an adult child with special needs, he brings a deeply personal understanding to advising families navigating similar considerations.
Partner Jeany Duff is a seasoned trial lawyer whose practice focuses on probate and trust
litigation, including appellate matters. She is known for her strong advocacy on behalf of beneficiaries and her commitment to holding fiduciaries accountable when duties are not met.
“What makes our firm different is that we take the time to truly listen to our clients and understand their expectations from the outset,” Duff says. “That allows us to provide advice that is both strategic and aligned with their goals.”
Partner Cheri Green, a certified specialist in estate planning, trust and probate law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization, brings nearly two decades of experience to her practice. She represents clients in a wide range of roles, including trustees, individual and professional fiduciaries
and corporate trustees. Her work spans estate planning, probate and trust administration, including special needs trusts, guiding clients through critical transitions with clarity and care.
“Our focus is to help clients understand the importance of effective planning while reducing the stress that can arise throughout the process,” Green says.
Senior attorney Ann O’Hara focuses on trust and estate administration, estate planning, conservatorships and elder law. Prior to relocating from the Bay Area, she served as a board member for a nonprofit organization supporting older adults and dependent individuals. That experience continues to shape
her compassionate and patient approach to client service.
“We meet our clients where they are, whether they are planning for the future or navigating the loss of a loved one,” O’Hara says. “Our goal is to provide the time, care and guidance they need to move forward with confidence.”
Across every practice area, Sherak Law Group is defined by a commitment to thoughtful counsel and meaningful client relationships. The firm’s attorneys understand that their work often comes at pivotal moments in their clients’ lives. With that understanding, they approach each matter with care, precision and a shared goal of protecting what matters most.
4400 MacArthur Boulevard, Suite 900, Newport Beach, CA 92660
949-988-7553 | sherak.com
BESTOFOC
2026 LEGAL
CONSUMER LAW
Kazerouni Law Group
Abbas Kazerounian
Costa Mesa
Kazerouni Law Group
Pamela Prescott
Costa Mesa
Pro Attorneys
Masih Kazerouni
Costa Mesa
West Coast Lemons
Michelle Fonseca-Kamana
Santa Ana
CRIMINAL DEFENSE
Ayala Law Group
Christopher J. Ayala
Santa Ana
Ron Cordova Attorney at Law
Ron Cordova
Irvine
Corrigan Welbourn Stokke
T. Edward Welbourn
Newport Beach
Hahn Attorneys
Caroline Hahn
Tustin
Law O ces of Meghan Blanco
Meghan Blanco
Laguna Niguel
CRIMINAL DEFENSE: DUI/DWI
Law O ces of Barry T. Simons
Barry T. Simons
Laguna Beach
Law O ces of Christopher J.
McCann
Christopher J. McCann
Santa Ana
Law O ces of Taylor & Taylor
Christopher Taylor
Huntington Beach
CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE
COLLAR
Bienert Katzman Littrell Williams
John Littrell
San Clemente
Hueston Hennigan
Michael M. Purpura
Newport Beach
Law O ce of Kenneth M. Miller
Kenneth Miller
Capistrano Beach
Wiechert Munk & Goldstein
Jessica Munk
Newport Beach
EMPLOYMENT & LABOR
Alexis Law Firm
Andrew L. Alexis
Long Beach
Ballard Rosenberg Golper & Savitt
Matthew B. Golper
Irvine
Berger Kahn
Erin Mindoro Ezra
Lake Forest
Buchsbaum & Haag
Brent S. Buchsbaum
Long Beach
Donahoo & Associates
Richard E. Donahoo
Tustin
Grochow Law
Lauren Grochow
Aliso Viejo
Farnell and Norman
Ronald Norman
Newport Beach
Forootan Law
Shirin Forootan
Corona Del Mar
Jackson Lewis
Kristin Webb
Peter Woo
Irvine
JML Law
Jared W. Beilke
Anaheim
Kennedy Mccarthy & Rumm
Colleen Mccarthy
Irvine
Knepper Law
Dawn M. Knepper
Irvine
Lara & Luna
Linda Luna Lara
Buena Park
Law O ce of Renia Zadourian
Renia Zadourian
Laguna Beach
Mediation Solutions
George Straggas
Irvine
Petronelli Law Group
Christian J. Petronelli
Long Beach
Sessions & Kimball
Don Sessions
Mission Viejo
Shanberg Sta ord
Shane Sta ord
Newport Beach
Sugg Law Group
Wendy Sugg
Newport Beach
Wesierski & Zurek
Christopher P. Wesierski
Lake Forest
Worrell Law Firm
Kyle Worrell
Santa Ana
ESTATE & TRUST LITIGATION
Gokal Law Group
Anum Arshad
Irvine
Gokal Law Group
Abbas K. Gokal
Irvine
Gokal Law Group
Andrew Micaraset
Irvine
Gokal Law Group
Alison Gokal
Irvine
Hart Kienle Pentecost
Andrew C. Kienle
Santa Ana
Law Stein Anderson
Matthew G. Stein
Irvine
Preston Law Group
Sophia R. Preston
Irvine
Sherak Law Group
David Sherak
Newport Beach
The Estate Lawyers
Amy L. Gostanian
Irvine
The Glowacki Firm
John P. Glowacki
Laguna Hills
The Legacy Lawyers
Phillip C. Lemmons
Irvine
Tredway Lumsdaine & Doyle
Jennifer Lumsdaine
Long Beach
ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE
Acosta Business & Estate Planning
Megan S. Acosta
Irvine
Asset Protection & Elder Law
Center
Patrick Phancao
Costa Mesa
Bridge Law
Lalit Kundani
Anaheim
Brown & Streza
Matt Brown
Irvine
Klinedinst
Sheila-Marie Finkelstein
Irvine
Tredway Lumsdaine & Doyle
Mark C. Doyle
Irvine
FAMILY LAW
Bremer Whyte Brown & O’meara
Kevin K. Moore
Newport Beach
EASTON & EASTON
PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS
What honors or accomplishments do you want mentioned?
All four partners, Doug, Brian, Matt and Travis Easton, have been selected to Best Lawyers in America, and three have been recognized as Super Lawyers, placing them among the top 5 percent of attorneys in California. e rm has recovered more than $500 million for clients and earned No. 1 settlement rankings from TopVerdict.com in 2023 and 2024. Easton & Easton has been named a U.S. News Best Law Firm each year since 2014 and serves as the o cial personal injury attorneys of the Anaheim Ducks and a partner of the Los Angeles Angels. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is di erent.
What stands out in the way you approach working with your clients?
At Easton & Easton, every client is treated like family. Founded in 1991, the rm is led by Doug Easton and his three sons. is structure fosters a collaborative approach to complex cases, with attorneys working closely
together on every matter. Each case is prepared from the outset as if it will go to trial, a standard recognized by insurance companies.
What do you want potential clients and referral sources to know about your practice?
Clients work with a team that has more than 100 years of combined experience. e rm handles cases on a contingency basis, with no fees unless there is a recovery. Results include $32 million and $26 million settlements, each ranked No. 1 in California and Los Angeles County.
What is the primary focus of your legal practice?
e rm focuses exclusively on personal injury and wrongful death cases, including auto, truck, motorcycle and bicycle accidents, premises liability and catastrophic injuries. Attorneys conduct thorough investigations, visiting accident scenes and identifying key evidence. is approach has led to top ranked settlements in California and Los Angeles County. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is di erent.
Is there something personal you want shared?
Family is central to the rm’s identity. Founded by Doug Easton and now led with his sons, the rm re ects a shared commitment to legacy and community. Outside the o ce, the team supports local organizations, coaches youth sports and values time with family.
Bremer Whyte Brown & O’Meara
Nicole Whyte
Newport Beach
Burch Shepard Family Law Group
Courtney L. Shepard
Newport Beach
Fontes Law Group
Victor Franco
Santa Ana
Garelick Family Law
Marc H. Garelick
Irvine
Gilligan Frisco Trutanich & Sarris
John J. Gilligan
Long Beach
Holstrom Block & Parke
James R. Parke
Newport Beach
Law O ces of Indu Srivastav, APLC
Indu Srivastav, Esq., CFLS
Fullerton
Law O ces of Michael D Wilkins
Michael Wilkins
Newport Beach
Law O ces of John S. Cowhig
John S. Cowhig
Irvine
Long Beach Law, Inc.
A. Stephanie Loftin
Long Beach
Long Beach Law, Inc.
Rebecca J. Birmingham, Esq.
Long Beach
Minyard Morris
Mark E. Minyard
Michael A. Morris
Newport Beach
Monarch Family Law
David R. Monarch
Irvine
Nelson | Kirkman
Graham D. Kirkman
Paul Nelson
Newport Beach
Phillips Whisnant Gazin Gorczyca
& Curtin
Jacqueline A. Whisnant
Irvine
Quinn & Dworakowski
Stephane Quinn
Irvine
Seastrom Tuttle & Murphy
Brian Seastrom
Ryan Patrick Murphy
Irvine
Stegmeier Gelbart Schwartz & Benavente
Samantha L. Weissman
Saul M. Gelbart
Irvine
Tovstein & Kraetzer
Marc S. Tovstein
Irvine
IMMIGRATION
Bloomrich Law Firm
Viktoria Bloomberg
Coto De Caza
Fontes Law Group
Martin Fontes
Santa Ana
Law O ce Of Megan Guzman
Megan Guzman
Orange
Mino Law Group
Ke Ye
Irvine
Nelson & Nunez
John C. Nelson
Newport Beach
Susan S. Han Law Group
Susan S. Han
Long Beach
INSURANCE COVERAGE
Berger Kahn
David B. Ezra
Lake Forest
Hall Gri n
Samuel M. Danskin
Santa Ana
Law O ces Of Adrienne D Cohen
Adrienne D. Cohen
Irvine
Lopez Bark & Schulz
Brian Z. Bark
Irvine
Lopez Bark & Schulz
Harry J. Schulz
Irvine
Smith Ellison
Michael W. Ellison
Irvine
Smith Smith & Feeley
John E. Feeley
Newport Beach
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
Berstein Law
David A. Berstein
Newport Beach
Call & Jensen
Aaron L. Renfro
Newport Beach
Camuti Law Group
Nathan Camuti
Aliso Viejo
Boisineau Law
Lynne Boisineau
Westminster
Cionca IP Law
Marin Cionca
Irvine
Finlayson To er Roosevelt & Lilly
Sandra P. Thompson
Irvine
Jafari Law Group
David Vedad Jafari
Irvine
Rhema Law Group
John D. Tran
Irvine
The Myers Law Group
Nicholas Myers
Newport Beach
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LITIGATION
Armond Wilson
Michelle Armond
Newport Beach
Brown Wegner
William J. Brown
Irvine
Friedland Cianfrani
Michael K. Friedland
Irvine
Mascho Brennan
Christina Trinh
Irvine
Umberg Zipser
Mark A. Finkelstein
Irvine
PERSONAL INJURY
Aitken Aitken Cohn
Casey R. Johnson
Santa Ana
AN Law
Ani Nalbandian
Glendale
Avrek Law Firm
Melody Parman
Newport Beach
Bentley & More LLP
Keith More
Newport Beach
Bentley & More LLP
Clare H. Lucich
Newport Beach
Bisnar Chase
Brian Chase
Newport Beach
Bisnar Chase
Scott Ritsema
Newport Beach
Bisnar Chase
Steven Hilst
Newport Beach
Bisnar Chase
Tom Antunovich
Newport Beach
Callahan & Blaine
Brian J. McCormack
Santa Ana
Callahan & Blaine
Edward Susolik
Santa Ana
Callahan & Blaine
Grigory Rchtouni
Santa Ana
Duque Price
Matthew R. Price
Newport Beach
Easton & Easton
Brian W. Easton
Costa Mesa
Easton & Easton
Matthew D. Easton
Costa Mesa
ANI NALBANDIAN, ESQ.
AN LAW
Ani Nalbandian, Esq., founder of AN Law, represents a new generation of Los Angeles attorneys rede ning the standards of boutique legal practice.
Having built her rm from the ground up, Nalbandian has established AN Law as a trusted destination for sophisticated clients seeking strategic, high-level representation in personal injury matters, including complex litigation.
With a practice rooted in precision and discretion, Nalbandian is known for her ability to navigate highstakes cases with composure and clarity. She has successfully resolved a number of substantial, high-value matters, earning recognition for her meticulous approach and unwavering commitment to results. Her work re ects not only legal acumen, but a re ned understanding of the personal impact behind each case.
At AN Law, Nalbandian has cultivated an elevated client experience de ned by responsiveness, attention to detail, and a deeply personalized approach. Her ability to balance strategic advocacy with thoughtful counsel has positioned her among Los Angeles’s emerging leaders in personal injury law.
Driven by an entrepreneurial mindset and a dedication to excellence, Nalbandian continues to expand her presence within the city’s competitive legal landscape, setting a distinct tone for modern, client-focused representation.
3400 Riverside Drive, Suite 1010, Burbank, CA 91505
Phone 818-220-8888 | Fax 818-736-8633 | anlaw.law
Easton & Easton
Travis Easton
Costa Mesa
Easton & Easton
W. Douglas Easton
Costa Mesa
Forrester Lopez
Kingsley E. Forrester
Newport Beach
Grigorian Law
Gregory A. Grigorian
Costa Mesa
Kazerouni Law Group
Mohammad R. Kazerouni
Costa Mesa
Keith More
Law O ces of Samer Habbas & Associates
Samer Habbas
Irvine
Law O ces Of Ted B Wacker
Bobby Waltman
Newport Beach
Law O ces of Ted B. Wacker
Ted B. Wacker
Newport Beach
Manly Stewart & Finaldi
John C. Manly
Irvine
Meissner Law Firm
Michael A. Meissner
Newport Beach
Nguyen Lawyers
Minh T. Nguyen
Long Beach
Razavi Law Group
Ali Razavi
Santa Ana
Robles Babaee
Jose Robles
Santa Ana
Robinson Calcagnie, Inc.
Jeo rey L. Robinson
Newport Beach
Robinson Calcagnie, Inc.
Michelle M. West
Newport Beach
Steel & Eisner
Alexander C. Eisner
Seal Beach
The Ledger Law Firm
Emery B. Ledger
Newport Beach
Traut Injury Law
Eric V. Traut
Santa Ana
Traut Injury Law
James R. Traut
Santa Ana
Younglove Law Group
Phillip Younglove
Newport Beach
PERSONAL INJURY: PLAINTIFF
Aitken Aitken Cohn
Ashleigh E. Aitken
Santa Ana
Bentley & More
Gregory L. Bentley
Newport Beach
Bisnar Chase
Brian Chase
Newport Beach
Cohn & Swartzon
Jason D. Cohn
Santa Ana
Kubota & Craig
Cynthia Craig
Irvine
Perona Langer Beck And Harrison
Ronald Beck
Long Beach
Robinson Calcagnie, Inc.
Kevin F. Calcagnie
Shannon M. Lukei
Newport Beach
PERSONAL INJURY MEDICAL
MALPRACTICE: PLAINTIFF
Hodes Milman
Daniel Martin Hodes
Irvine
Dimarco | Araujo Montevideo
John A. Montevideo
Santa Ana
The Law O ce Of Marshall
Silberberg
Marshall Silberberg
Irvine
BUSINESS LITIGATION
Callahan & Blaine
Edward Susolik
Stephen E. Blaine
Santa Ana
Cooper & Huber
Alessa Huber
Long Beach
Ford & Diulio
Brendan M. Ford
Costa Mesa
Green Steel & Albrecht
Scott R. Albrecht
Irvine
Hueston Hennigan
Allison L. Libeu
John C. Hueston
Newport Beach
Keller Anderle Scolnick
Jennifer Keller
Irvine
Klein & Wilson
Manoah S. Marton
Newport Beach
Lawrence Bartels
Robert Scott Lawrence
Irvine
Michelman & Robinson
Je rey D. Farrow
Irvine
Stradling
Kyle Leingang
Newport Beach
WORKERS COMPENSATION
Law O ces of Geraldine Ly
Geraldine Ly
Orange
CIVIL RIGHTS
Gastélum Law
Denisse O. Gastélum
Long Beach
CIVIL LITIGATION: PLAINTIFF
Beljajev Law Group
Neyleen S. Ortiz-Beljajev
Seal Beach
Lanzone Morgan
Reza Sobati
Long Beach
Moneymaker & Stewart
Ryan Stewart
Dana Point
CLASS ACTION/MASS TORTS
Robinson Calcagnie, Inc.
Daniel S. Robinson
Wesley K. Polischuk
Newport Beach
JR. CLASS ACTION/MASS TORTS
Robinson Calcagnie, Inc.
Mark P. Robinson Jr
Newport Beach
ELDER LAW
Law O ce of Melinda S Bell
Melinda S. Bell
Dana Point
Morgan & Morgan
William Artigliere
Long Beach
Valentine Law Group
Kimberly Valentine
Travis K. Siegel
Mission Viejo
EMINENT DOMAIN
Palmieri Hennessey & Leifer
Anish J. Banker
Patrick A. Hennessey
Irvine
FRANCHISE/DEALERSHIP
Mortenson Taggart Adams
Filemon Carrillo
Irvine
Luther Lanard
Doug Luther
Newport Beach
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
Belal Hamideh Law
Belal Hamideh
Long Beach
Law O ce Of Andrea R Herman
Andrea R. Herman
Long Beach
MELODY PARMAN
AVREK LAW FIRM
Melody Parman is a Managing Partner at Avrek Law Firm, where she directs the rm’s prelitigation strategy and execution of personal injury cases with a focus on performance, precision, and results. With more than twenty years of experience, she is known for handling complex, high-exposure injury matters and delivering strong outcomes.
Admitted to the California Bar in 2010, Ms. Parman represents victims of negligence in serious and catastrophic injury cases. Her work has contributed to signi cant recoveries, including a $45 million recovery for a severely injured minor, a $42.75 million recovery for a client who sustained a traumatic brain injury, and a $27 million settlement for a motorcyclist in excess of available policy limits.
At Avrek, Ms. Parman has developed a disciplined, results-driven framework for case management designed to maximize recovery from the outset. Her approach focuses on early identi cation of all available insurance coverage, strategic case positioning, and e cient resolution. “My role extends beyond practicing law,” Ms. Parman explains. “It is about building a team and structure grounded in accountability, trust, and authenticity.”
Ms. Parman has earned national recognition, including being named among the Top 100 Trial Attorneys in the Nation and the Top 25 Women Trial Attorneys in California, and she has been recognized as a Super Lawyer for more than a decade. She has also been honored by the United States Department of Defense.
Clients turn to Avrek during some of the most di cult moments of their lives, and Ms. Parman approaches that responsibility with discipline and clarity, helping position the rm as a leader in personal injury law.
2350 SE Bristol Street, Suite B, Newport Beach, CA 92660
949-996-7981 | avrek.com
BRIDGE LAW LLP
CORPORATE, TAX & ESTATE PLANNING ATTORNEYS
What honors or accomplishments have you received recognition for?
Bridge Law LLP has built a reputation as a trusted advisor to highnet worth and ultra-high net worth families, founders, investors, and closely held businesses navigating complex growth and transition events.
Our accomplishments are best re ected in the outcomes we deliver— successfully structuring multi-million-dollar mergers and acquisitions, advising on sophisticated tax-e cient reorganizations, and guiding individuals and families through the complexities of income, gift, and estate tax issues across both domestic and international markets.
We are particularly proud of our work helping clients position themselves for optimal business exits, family legacy planning, and probate avoidance.
Our lawyers are consistently rated by Super Lawyers, and the media for their expertise in the areas of Corporate Law and Estate Planning. community as experts in our elds. With our team of both attorneys, time and again we are able to provide our clients with every competitive and strategic advantage in handling their legal and advisory needs.
What stands out in the way you approach working with your clients?
What di erentiates you from others in law?
We approach our client relationships as strategic partners, not just legal technicians. Our role is not simply to document transactions or write estate plans — it is to help clients think several steps ahead, anticipate risk, and structure decisions with long-term consequences in mind.
What di erentiates Bridge Law LLP is our ability to integrate legal, tax,
and business strategy into a single, cohesive advisory experience. Many rms operate in silos; we deliberately do not. Whether we are structuring a deal, or designing an estate plan, we are constantly evaluating how each decision impacts the broader picture—tax e ciency, liability exposure, operational exibility, and exit readiness.
What do you want potential clients and legal referral sources to know about your practice?
Bridge Law LLP is a rm that thrives in complexity. We are most valuable when the stakes are high—whether that is a pending transaction or family legacy planning matter requiring careful coordination among legal, tax, and nancial advisors.
For clients, this means you are getting counsel that is forward-looking and solutions-oriented. We do not just identify issues; we solve them in a way that aligns with your broader business and/or personal goals.
For referral sources, it means your clients will be handled with the same level of care and professionalism that you would provide yourself. We are highly collaborative and understand the importance of maintaining and strengthening the relationships you have built. Many of our engagements involve close coordination with CPAs, nancial advisors, and consultants, and we are accustomed to working as part of an integrated advisory team.
At our core, we are a relationship-driven rm. We invest in understanding our clients’ long-term objectives, which allows us to deliver advice that is not only legally sound, but strategically meaningful.
KINGSLEY FORRESTER, ESQ.
What stands out in the way you approach working with your clients? What di erentiates you from others in law?
What sets our firm apart is that we never see a case as just a file. Every matter is treated as a human story that must be understood, developed, and presented with clarity from the very beginning. The firm prepares each case with trial in mind, always focusing on how the facts, the medicine, and the story will ultimately be understood. Complex issues become clear, credible, and compelling. That level of care and preparation is the backbone of our firm’s approach.
What is the primary focus of your legal practice? Do you have a niche or unique area of law you want to highlight?
Our firm focuses on personal injury and landlordtenant cases, representing people harmed by unsafe conditions, serious accidents, or neglect. These cases often come at deeply difficult moments in a person’s life where they feel like they have no help and the system is against them. That’s why our firm is committed to guiding clients with clarity, strength, and compassion. Each matter is built strategically from the outset, paying careful attention to the key facts and issues.
What do you want potential clients and legal referral sources to know about your practice?
Potential clients and referral sources should know that Forrester Lopez is selective about the cases it accepts and deliberate in how each one is prepared. The firm is not volume driven and does not believe in shortcuts when a client’s future is at stake. Every case is built around a clear strategy so the facts are understood, the story is compelling, and clients feel seen, heard, and powerfully represented at every stage. Referral sources can trust that matters will be handled with professionalism, intensity, and real purpose. That mindset defines the firm’s approach: all gas, no brakes.
GOKAL LAW GROUP, INC.
TRUST, PROBATE, & BUSINESS LITIGATION TRIAL ATTORNEYS
Stepping In Where It Matters Most
Gokal Law Group’s team of award-winning inheritance lawyers work at the intersection of grief and con ict, representing bene ciaries, trustees, and family members in high-stakes, deeply personal disputes over legacy and generational wealth.
Skilled Trust & Probate Trial Lawyers
Our team represents families in complex trust, probate, and business litigation involving breach of duciary duty, accounting, nancial elder abuse, misappropriation, contested estates, and undue in uence. We are known for working with clients who are in the right and for taking cases to trial when reasonable pre-trial resolutions cannot be reached. Every matter is approached with strategy, precision, and empathy because we recognize that these disputes involve real money, real consequences, and a family’s sense of fairness.
Proud to Be Recognized Among e Best In OC
Six of our attorneys have each been named among the Best Lawyers in Orange County for 2026, a distinction that re ects their skilled advocacy, their deep knowledge of trust and estate law, and their standing as leaders in the Southern California legal community: (from left) Anum Arshad, Andrew Micaraset, Ali Nicolette, Nicholas Porrazzo, Alison Gokal, and Abbas Gokal. We are honored by this recognition and proud of the work that earned it. We are also grateful for the privilege to represent our incredible clients and to counsel them during some of the most di cult moments of their lives.
Rooted in the Community We Serve
Each of our attorneys are leaders in the Orange County legal community, active in community service, and dedicated to positively impacting the lives of those we serve.
505 Technology Drive, Suite 150, Irvine, CA 92618 949-753-9100 | gokallaw.com
200 Spectrum Center Drive, Suite 1230, Irvine, CA 92618 949-570-5660 | habbaspilaw.com
SAMER S. HABBAS
SAMER HABBAS & ASSOCIATES, PC
Law Grounded in Life Experience
For Samer Habbas, the practice of law is deeply personal. He brings not only legal expertise to every case, but also lived experience. As the son of immigrants, Habbas understands what it means to rely on a legal system that does not always feel accessible or protective. at perspective shapes his approach to advocacy with focus, determination and respect.
Samer Habbas & Associates represents individuals and families in serious injury, wrongful death, sexual abuse, and employment law cases. e rm’s mission extends beyond case categories. Habbas founded the rm to advocate for those who have been harmed and left without power, including survivors of institutional abuse and sexual misconduct, injured workers, immigrants and others whose rights have been violated.
Many clients come to the rm after being told their case is not worth pursuing. ey arrive discouraged and feeling dismissed. At Habbas & Associates, those voices are heard and taken seriously.
“I ght every case as if it is going to trial,” Habbas says. “What sets us apart is not only results, but a willingness to take on complex and sensitive matters while treating every client with care, dedication and respect.”
at philosophy de nes the rm’s work. Attorneys approach each case with thoughtful strategy, close attention and a commitment to preserving client dignity. Habbas built a collaborative team that draws on shared strengths to pursue justice and ensure no client feels alone in the process.
Get Samer on Your Side™
SHIRIN
FOROOTAN, ESQ. FOROOTAN ADR
Shirin has had a passion for mediation her whole life. With Forootan ADR, she hopes to leave a signi cant imprint on her native State of California, where employment law disputes are on the rise. Shirin is committed to providing her mediation services in an a ordable and accessible manner for all types of employees and employers.
Areas of expertise: Whistleblower • Discrimination • Retaliation • Harassment • Wage and Hour • Disability Accommodation • Equal Pay Act • PAGA • Leaves of Absence
3334 East Coast Highway, Ste. 307 Corona Del Mar, CA 92625
949.620.2929 | shirin@forootanadr.con | forootanadr.com
Ron Cordova is an experienced and well-respected criminal defense attorney who has devoted his skill and personal attention to clients’ cases for more than 40 years. A former Orange County deputy district attorney and member of the California Legislature, Ron has tried more than 150 state and federal cases to verdict.
He has represented clients in 34 states as well as internationally and has been named a Southern California Super Lawyer 18 times since 2007.
16520 Bake Parkway, Ste. 280, Irvine, CA 92618
Phone 949-748-3600 | fax 949-748-3888
roncordova@roncordovalaw.com roncordovalaw.com
MICHELLE ARMOND ARMOND WILSON LLP
Michelle Armond represents innovators and Fortune 500 companies nationwide in high-stakes intellectual property disputes involving patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade secrets. Recognized as a “brilliant” trial attorney by IAM 1000, her “Caltech electrical engineering education” has been cited as part of her “winning formula” (Daily Journal).
An authority in intellectual property law, Michelle regularly speaks to judges and practicing attorneys on cutting-edge legal issues and has testi ed on patent law reform before the U.S. Senate.
4685 MacArthur Court, Suite 390 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949-386-1616 | michelle.armond@armondwilson.com armondwilson.com
ANDREW C. KIENLE HART KIENLE PENTECOST
Andrew C. Kienle is a shareholder and managing partner at Hart Kienle Pentecost and a seasoned trial lawyer with 30 years of experience. He represents trustees and bene ciaries in trust and estate disputes, as well as clients in complex business and real estate matters.
Mr. Kienle has secured published appellate decisions in signi cant trust and estate cases and has been included on the prestigious California Super Lawyers list. His leadership, courtroom presence, industry knowledge and unyielding dedication to delivering favorable results continue to make him one of the region’s most trusted and respected attorneys.
4 Hutton Centre Drive, Ste. 900 Santa Ana, CA 92707 714-432-8700 | hkplawfirm.com
TBW LAW
PERSONAL INJURY LAW FIRM IN ORANGE COUNTY
What honors or accomplishments have you received recognition for?
TBW Law has built its reputation on taking complex, high-exposure cases and delivering meaningful results. e rm has secured numerous multimillion-dollar recoveries across catastrophic injury matters, including a $21.2 million trucking verdict, a $15.99 million commercial vehicle recovery, and a $14.6 million verdict for a motorcyclist left paraplegic. e rm has also participated on national litigation teams, including a $51 million mass tort trial against a major pharmaceutical company. Beyond individual results, TBW Law is known for its trial-focused approach and leadership within the legal community, including involvement with organizations such as the American Board of Trial Advocates and the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association
What stands out in the way you approach working with your clients?
What di erentiates you from others in law?
At TBW Law, every case is prepared as if it will go to trial. at mindset shapes everything—from investigation to expert development to client communication. e rm does not treat cases as les; it treats them as stories that must be fully developed and persuasively presented. What di erentiates TBW Law is not only its willingness to take on di cult
cases, but the people behind that work. Every attorney and sta member understands that these cases represent pivotal moments in a client’s life, and that responsibility drives a level of attention, accountability, and advocacy that extends far beyond the courtroom. e rm approaches each matter with a simple philosophy: perseverance with passion. Clients are not processed through a system—they are guided through a ght.
What do you want potential clients and legal referral sources to know about your practice?
TBW Law is a trial rm at its core. While many cases resolve before trial, the rm’s preparation and reputation are built on its willingness to go the distance when necessary—an approach that often drives stronger outcomes long before a courtroom is ever reached. e rm focuses on catastrophic personal injury, trucking and motorcycle collisions, product liability, and complex negligence matters, particularly those involving signi cant damages and contested liability.
For referral partners, TBW Law o ers a collaborative and transparent approach with a shared goal of maximizing value for the client. For clients, the message is simple: when the stakes are high, you want a team prepared to stand up, stay in the ght, and see it through.
1000 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach 949.706.7100 | tbwlawfirm.com
AUDREY “STEPHANIE” LOFTIN LONG BEACH LAW, INC., APLC
Audrey “Stephanie” Loftin, founder of Long Beach Law, Inc., APLC, is an experienced family law attorney recognized as a Super Lawyer in 2026. Her approach re ects the role of a counselor at law, guiding clients through dissolution, child custody disputes and restraining orders. e rm also handles criminal defense matters, where Loftin is known for her commitment to advocating for her clients. For more information, visit LongBeachLaw.com or call 562-621-6300.
782 Pacific Ave., Long Beach, CA 90813 562-621-6300 | LongBeachLaw.com
Recognized in Orange Coast magazine’s May 2026 Best of OC Legal issue, Linda Lara, Esq., of Lara & Luna stands out for her dedication to employee rights. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate workplace challenges and ght for the fairness they deserve. Known for her personalized approach and consistent results, Linda works closely with her clients to protect their rights and pursue justice. Visit www.LaraLunaLaw.com or call (562) 444-0010.
6131 Orangethorpe Ave., Suite 215, Buena Park, 90620 562.444.0010 | LaraLunaLaw.com
REBECCA J. BIRMINGHAM, ESQ. LONG BEACH LAW, INC., APLC
Rebecca “Reba” J. Birmingham is an attorney at Long Beach Law, Inc., recognized as a Super Lawyer in 2026. Her practice focuses on estate planning and probate, with an emphasis on making complex legal processes as smooth and accessible as possible. She also handles stepparent and same sex adoptions. For more information, visit LongBeachLaw.com or call 562-621-6300 to schedule an in o ce or virtual appointment.
782 Pacific Ave., Long Beach, CA 90813 562-621-6300 | LongBeachLaw.com
MATT BROWN BROWN & STREZA LLP
Matt Brown is a partner at Brown & Streza in Orange County, where he leads the rm’s Tax, Trusts and Estates Group and ultra high net worth practice. He advises business owners and philanthropists on the tax and nontax aspects of estate planning, charitable planning and business succession planning. A certi ed specialist and ACTEC fellow, he is consistently recognized among Orange County’s leading attorneys. For more information, visit brownandstreza.com
ORANGE COUNTY: 40 Pacifica, 15th Fl., Irvine, CA 92618 949-453-2900 | brownandstreza.com SAN DIEGO: 4445 Eastgate Mall, Ste. 200, San Diego, CA 92121 (858) 203-0090
MARC H. GARELICK
GARELICK FAMILY LAW,
PC
What honors or accomplishments have you received recognition for?
I am an active member of the American Bar Association and the Orange County Jewish Bar Association and serve on the Executive Committee of the Orange County Bar Association. My professional honors include being named to the Lawdragon 500 Leading Family Lawyers list from 2024 to 2026, as well as recognition as a Super Lawyer from 2024 to 2026. I have also been selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America from 2025 to 2026. In addition, I was recognized as an Orange County Visionary by the Los Angeles Times B2B Publishing in 2023 and 2024, re ecting both my legal work and broader contributions to the community.
What stands out in the way you approach working with your clients? What di erentiates you from others in law?
I take pride in delivering high-caliber work and maintaining a strong reputation within the legal community through credible arguments, compelling evidence, and e ective legal strategies. At the same time, I approach every matter with both empathy and precision. Clients value that I listen closely, develop strategies tailored to their unique needs and goals, and remain mindful of the human challenges inherent in family law. is combination of strategic advocacy and thoughtful client support is central to the way I practice family law.
3161 Michelson Drive, Suite 1160, Irvine, CA 92612 949-535-1335 | garelickfamilylaw.com
MICHELLE M. WEST
ROBINSON CALCAGNIE, INC.
How do you stand out from others in the law in the way you approach working with your clients?
My clients have direct access to me, including my cell phone, because I believe in being available during the most di cult moments of their lives. Clear communication and responsiveness are essential to building trust. I approach every case with both compassion and determination, ensuring clients feel supported while I advocate for them. Providing attentive, thoughtful and relentless representation is at the core of my practice.
How have your personal life and passions contributed to the kind of lawyer you are today?
Endurance de nes both my life as an ultrarunner and my work as a trial lawyer. Advocating for injured clients requires persistence, resilience and strategic patience when facing powerful opponents and complex circumstances. Success in the law, like endurance sports, demands grit and the ability to stay focused through challenges.
Injury cases, from product defects and traumatic brain injuries to dog bites and premises liability, require careful attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to each client. As the second oldest of nine children and the daughter of a Marine and Vietnam veteran, I was raised with a strong sense of discipline, determination and teamwork. I bring that same endurance to every case, with a focus on truth, accountability and justice.
19 Corporate Plaza Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660 949-720-1288 | robinsonfirm.com
INDU SRIVASTAV, ESQ., CFLS
LAW OFFICES OF INDU SRIVASTAV, APLC
De ning Advocacy rough Precision, Compassion, and Command of the Courtroom
Ms. Srivastav is an Orange County Certi ed Family Law Specialist with over two decades of experience in family law. Known for her meticulous approach and hands-on case management, she personally handles every aspect of litigation—from initial consultation through trial—ensuring strategic precision and client-focused advocacy. Her practice emphasizes contested divorce, custody disputes, and nancial matters, where her thorough preparation and courtroom command consistently deliver results. Ms. Srivastav approaches each matter with a level of thoroughness that has become her professional signature.
Ms. Srivastav began her legal career working in transactional and estate planning, before expanding her expertise in Family Law and in 2000, she founded her own rm, building a reputation for excellence and integrity.
Her honors include Daily Journal’s Top Family Law Attorney 2026, Super Lawyer nominations (2025/2026), and Best of OC Legal 2026.
