It may seem odd that a criminal defense lawyer also represents crime victims, but think about it: Who knows better than we do how wrongdoers can be held accountable for their crimes?

We represent the victims of thefts, violence and sexual assaults seeking redress for their injuries. We help to obtain protective orders, restitution and financial aid in criminal cases. We seek restraining orders to stop harassment.

Victims of domestic violence sometimes prefer to resolve cases without going through the criminal justice system. Some people do not wish to testify in court. We represent represent victims of domestic violence in these situations.

Victims can often bring a civil suit for monetary damages against the criminals or responsible third parties. When we represent victims who are seeking just compensation, we work in association with lawyers who are experienced civil litigators.

We often do cases of vicitms' rights on a contingency fee basis. Our only fee is a percentage of what we collect for the client. There is no fee if we do not collect for the client.

We fight for vicitms' rights the same way we fight for our other clients--with the most thorough, vigorous and intelligent representation available. Our successful cases include a $150,000 settlement for a woman who was allegedly assaulted by an employee at Natividad Medical Center, from Monterey County, the firm that provided security service at the hospital and the employment agency that referred the alleged assailant to the hospital.