LATEST
The Sohagi Law Group Named “Best Law Firm” By Best Lawyers
Firm Secures “Tier 1” Band Recognition
Published November 13, 2024
By Lawdragon
LOS ANGELES – November 13, 2024 – Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced today that it has been recognized by Best Lawyers® Best Law Firms® 2025 among the nation’s elite law firms.
“Over the past decade, these awards have cemented their place as one of the most respected, utilized and comprehensive guides to legal excellence, serving as a trusted resource for both clients and legal professionals seeking distinguished representation in a diverse array of practice areas,” states the publisher. “This edition features firms that have not only achieved the highest standards of legal expertise but also have a proven track record of success across a range of complex and dynamic legal issues.”
The Sohagi Law Group’s practice focuses on assisting cities, counties, and other public agencies navigate the legal complexities of land use and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), including infrastructure and green energy, climate change and housing supply. When necessary, it zealously defends lead agencies’ land use approvals and environmental determinations in judicial proceedings, and frequently heads mediation teams in settlement discussions.
For 2025, The Sohagi Law Group has been nationally ranked “Tier 1” in land use and zoning law.
Two Sohagi Law Group Partners Named Top Litigators in America
Published September 11, 2024
By Lawdragon
LOS ANGELES, CA, September 11, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ — Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced today that Partners Nicole Hoeksma Gordon and R. Tyson Sohagi have been recognized by Lawdragon in its “2025’s 500 Leading Litigators in America.” The publication received a record number of submissions and based their selections on original journalistic research and an extensive vetting process.
“These lawyers [on the list] win hundreds of millions, billions even,” states the publisher. “They win rights, or lose them. They win freedom, or lose it for someone. They have the abilities to change businesses and entire industries. It’s an audacious thing a trial lawyer does: to tell a judge, jury or other arbiter, ‘Hear me. Believe me. Rule for my client.’ Bravo to everyone here, and every litigator out there working on their craft and a cause.”
For more information, please read the full press release HERE.
Three Sohagi Law Group Attorneys Named “Best Lawyers in America”
Published August 19, 2024
By Best Lawyers in America
LOS ANGELES – August 19, 2024 – Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced today that Best Lawyers in America has recognized Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi and Partner Nicole Hoeksma Gordon in the 31st edition of The Best Lawyers in America, and Associate Mark Desrosiers in the fifth edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America. The rigorous selection process of Best Lawyers awards “ensures that the 79,116 honorees in The Best Lawyers in America and the 26,916 recognized in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America are leaders in their fields” and “are respected by their colleagues, showcasing them as the most distinguished members of the legal community.”
“As an industry-driven professional recognition, it is the opinion of lawyers themselves that determines our awards,” states the periodical. “We received record-breaking voter participation in this year’s editions. With more engagement from the market, the barrier for recognition is higher and more competitive than ever before. This reflects not only the profession’s commitment to celebrating professional excellence, but also the increasing importance of every voice in shaping the standards of legal distinction.”
For more information, please read the full press release HERE.
The Sohagi Law Group Prevails Before California Supreme Court, Paving Way For New Housing At UC Berkeley’s “People’s Park”
Published June 12, 2024
LOS ANGELES, June 12, 2024 — The Los Angeles-based land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group prevailed on behalf of UC Berkeley in a landmark decision before the California Supreme Court on Thursday, paving the way for the construction of long overdue new housing for students.
The court’s unanimous 7-0 decision in favor of the University, represented by firm Partner Nicole Gordon, rejected objections raised under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) by neighborhood groups about the potential “student-generated noise” impacts the housing project could have on the neighborhood. Make UC a Good Neighbor v. UC Regents, No. S279242, decided June 6, 2024.
An appeals court initially found these concerns valid, faulting the University for failing to examine the potential noisiness of its future students or to consider potential alternative sites to “People’s Park” – a historic site for activism on campus since the 1960s.
For more information, please read the full press release HERE.
A Guide to SB 477’s Recodification of ADU Law
Published March 25, 2024
On March 25, 2024, the Legislature enacted Senate Bill (SB) 477 to consolidate and recodify state law on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs), effective immediately. SB 477 gathers ADU/JADU law that was previously scattered throughout five sections of the Government Code under a single unified chapter. Former Government Code sections 65852.2, 65852.22, 65852.23, 65852.26, and 65852.150 are now grouped under Government Code Chapter 13, commencing with section 66310. The bill also makes non-substantive conforming amendments to other sections of housing law to reflect ADU/JADU laws.
Recodifying ADU/JADU law creates a more organized and coherent body of law that is easier to navigate. In the short-term, however, SB 477 may cause confusion because most citations to ADU/JADU law are now outdated. To ease this transition, an abridge table is provided below showing how the former Government Code sections were recodified. The table contains the highest level of organization that was preserved through recodification, i.e., any subdivisions of a section in the Former Government Code Section column will be contained in the section in the Current Government Code Section. A comprehensive table containing the recodification of every former Government Code section relating to ADU/JADU law may be downloaded HERE.
The Sohagi Law Group’s Margaret Sohagi, Nicole Gordon and R. Tyson Sohagi Recognized as 2024 Super Lawyers
Published January 16, 2024
By Super Lawyers
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced that all three of the firm’s Partners, Nicole Gordon, R. Tyson Sohagi and Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi have been selected by their peers for inclusion in the 2024 Southern California Super Lawyers list.
Annually, the lawyer rating service Super Lawyers recognizes no more than five percent of attorneys in each state. This honor highlights lawyers from over 70 practice areas who have demonstrated exceptional professional achievements and garnered substantial peer recognition. The selection process is rigorous and patented, involving a comprehensive statewide lawyer survey, an independent candidate evaluation, and specialized peer reviews within various practice areas.
Margaret Sohagi’s practice for the last 30 years has focused on assisting cities, counties, and other public agencies navigate the legal complexities of land use, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). She provides constructive, practical legal advice, working directly with lead agency counsel, staff, appointed elected officials. When necessary, Ms. Sohagi zealously defends lead agencies’ land use approvals and environmental determinations in judicial proceedings, and frequently heads mediation teams in settlement discussions.
For more information, please read the full press release HERE.
The Sohagi Law Group Named “Best Law Firm” By Best Lawyers
Published November 03, 2023
By Best Lawyers
LOS ANGELES – November 03, 2023 – Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced today that it has been recognized by Best Lawyers® among the nation’s elite law firms for 2024. This list is compiled annually by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®.
“Rankings by Best Law Firms® are some of the most trusted nationwide classifications available for law firms,” states the publisher. “Firms awarded in Best Law Firms are identified for their professional excellence with consistently positive feedback from clients and peers. Only 4% of firms in the United States are considered for a Best Law Firms ranking, highlighting each award’s prestige.”
For more information, please read the full press release HERE.
Four Sohagi Law Group Associates Named “Best Lawyers in America”
Published April 20, 2023
By Best Lawyers
LOS ANGELES – August 22, 2023 – Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced today that Best Lawyers has recognized Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi in the 30th edition of The Best Lawyers in America, and Associates Mark Desrosiers, Matthew Wang and Milja Miric in the fourth edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America. Best Lawyer awards are compiled “by conducting exhaustive peer-review surveys in which tens of thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers” and honor “only the top 5.3% of elite lawyers in the nation across 150 practice areas.”
“Ranking the most exceptional legal minds requires sustained commitment and considerable intricacy. We leave no stone unturned, ensuring that that each stage of the Best Lawyers awards cycle is thorough,” states the periodical. “Our dedication to accuracy is backed by a Purely Peer Review® process that we developed for the first edition and have maintained across decades of research.”
For more information, please read the full press release HERE.
Margaret Sohagi Of the Sohagi Law Group Named Among Los Angeles Women Of Influence
Published April 20, 2023
By Los Angeles Business Journal
LOS ANGELES, April 20, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced today that Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi has been selected as an honoree in a Los Angeles Business Journal’s list of the city’s most influential women attorneys. The “Women of Influence: Attorneys” list recognizes women lawyers that have exceptional legal skill and achievement as well as exemplary leadership in the community.
Sohagi’s practice for the last 30 years has focused on assisting cities, counties, and other public agencies navigate the legal complexities of land use, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), climate change and housing supply). Sohagi “provides constructive, practical legal advice, working directly with lead agency counsel, staff, appointed elected officials,” says the publication. “When necessary, she zealously defends lead agencies’ land use approvals and environmental determinations in judicial proceedings, and frequently heads mediation teams in settlement discussions.”
For more information, please read the press release HERE.
California Environmental Quality Act Compliance
Lexis Practice Advisor® – Update
Published February, 2023
By R. Tyson Sohagi and Albert I. Herson
CEQA Practice Note– 2022 Update
R. Tyson Sohagi and Albert I. Herson are proud to announce the availability of the 2023 update of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Compliance Practice Note, published by LexisNexis.® The CEQA Practice Note comprehensively reviews the latest CEQA developments and trends, and provides CEQA practitioners with valuable insights and practice tips on how to navigate the CEQA process successfully. It covers the CEQA review and document preparation process step-by-step, and discusses litigation topics of particular interest to lead agencies and applicants.
For more information, please click HERE.
The Sohagi Law Group is thrilled to welcome Matt Wang to the firm
Published October 3, 2022
The Sohagi Law Group is thrilled to welcome Matt Wang to the firm as an associate attorney. Matt has represented public agencies throughout the state with all phases of land use and planning projects. Prior to joining the Firm, he was an attorney the Tulare County Counsel’s office. He has assisted in review of EIRs for major land use developments in Riverside, San Diego, and Tulare Counties. He has worked directly with city and county planning agencies, and sat as the primary advisor to a county planning commission. Matt has served as a former deputy city attorney for cities in the San Diego Region, and has experience working with transportation projects, homelessness issues, and housing projects.
Two Sohagi Law Group Attorneys Recognized As Top Business Leaders In Los Angeles
Published July 6, 2022
LOS ANGELES – July 6, 2022 – Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced that its Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi and Partner Nicole Hoeksma Gordon have been selected as nominees for the Los Angeles Business Journal’s “Women’s Leadership Awards,” which honors the accomplishments of women business leaders.
Sohagi has been selected as a nominee in the “CEO of the Year” category, recognizing her efforts in successfully leading the firm and its team of professionals. In her 30+ year law practice, Sohagi represents cities, counties and other public agencies in navigating the legal complexities of land use, climate change, housing and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) . Sohagi provides constructive, practical legal advice, working directly with lead agency counsel, staff, appointed elected officials. When necessary, she zealously defends lead agencies’ land use approvals and environmental determinations in judicial proceedings, and frequently heads mediation teams in settlement discussions.
Gordon has been selected as a nominee in the “Women to Watch” category, recognizing emerging leaders who have made noteworthy contributions within their firms and throughout the business community. She focuses her practice on complex issues and projects under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the federal and California Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Planning and Zoning Laws.
The Sohagi Law Group is currently hiring!
Please review our Careers page and If you meet, or exceed, the qualifications below, please forward your resume to hiring@sohagi.com.
The Sohagi Law Group’s Margaret Sohagi Named one of Los Angeles’ Top 100 Lawyers
Published May 17, 2022
LOS ANGELES, May 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced today that its Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi has been recognized as a “Top 100 Lawyer” by the Los Angeles Business Journal. According to the journal’s publisher Josh Schimmels, the 100 lawyers selected “have demonstrated exceptional legal skill and achievements across the full spectrum of responsibility, exemplary leadership and contributions to the Los Angeles community at large.”
Sohagi’s practice for more than 30 years has focused on assisting cities, counties, and other public agencies in navigating the legal complexities of land use, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) climate change and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Sohagi “provides constructive, practical legal advice, working directly with lead agency counsel, staff, appointed elected officials,” says the special feature. “When necessary, she zealously defends lead agencies’ land use approvals and environmental determinations in judicial proceedings, and frequently heads mediation teams in settlement discussions.”
As a longstanding CEQA instructor for California’s Continuing Judicial Studies Program, Sohagi has the unique opportunity to instruct Superior Court judges, appellate justices and court attorneys. Her land use and environmental law expertise, and ability to keep public agencies informed about the latest legal developments and trends, is also demonstrated through her frequent planning and legal conference presentations, extensive UCLA and USC teaching experience.
Sohagi currently serves as the Chair of the Santa Monica College Foundation Board. In 2022 Sohagi was recognized by the Los Angeles Business Journal as a “Woman of Influence and last year she was selected for the Los Angeles Times’ “Inspirational Women Award” and the Los Angeles Business Journal “Community Impact Advocate Award.”
The Sohagi Law Group handles complex transactional and litigation matters for public agencies, including cities, counties, townships, state agencies, special districts, commissions and authorities. Its attorneys draw upon their extensive expertise in all areas of environmental and land use law to advise clients navigate existing laws and regulations and keep them up to date on emerging environmental issues such as climate change and greenhouse gas regulation.
Margaret Sohagi of the Sohagi law group named among Los Angeles Women of Influence
Published Arpil 19, 2022
LOS ANGELES, April 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced today that its Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi has been selected as an honoree in a Los Angeles Business Journal special supplement recognizing the city’s most influential women attorneys. The “Women of Influence: Attorneys” list recognizes women lawyers “for exceptional legal skill and achievement across the full spectrum of responsibility, exemplary leadership as evidenced by the highest professional and ethical standards, and for contributions to the Los Angeles community at large,” writes the publisher.
“Women make a unique impact every day throughout Southern California, the country and the world,” said Sohagi. “I am truly grateful to be recognized alongside a group of such highly respected professional women.”
Sohagi’s practice for the last 30 years has focused on assisting cities, counties, and other public agencies navigate the legal complexities of land use, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Sohagi “provides constructive, practical legal advice, working directly with lead agency counsel, staff, appointed elected officials,” says the publication. “When necessary, she zealously defends lead agencies’ land use approvals and environmental determinations in judicial proceedings, and frequently heads mediation teams in settlement discussions.”
As a longstanding CEQA instructor for California’s Continuing Judicial Studies Program, Sohagi has the unique opportunity to instruct Superior Court judges, appellate justices and court attorneys. “Her land use and environmental law expertise, and ability to keep public agencies informed about the latest legal developments and trends, is also demonstrated through her frequent planning and legal conference presentations, extensive UCLA and USC teaching experience,” the feature says.
Sohagi currently serves as the Chair of the Santa Monica College Foundation Board. In 2021, Sohagi was recognized as a nominee for the Los Angeles Times’ “Inspirational Women Award” and by the Los Angeles Business Journal for the “Community Impact Advocate Award.”
Welcome Cristina!
The Sohagi Law Group’s Margaret Sohagi and Nicole Gordon Recognized as 2022 Super Lawyers
Published January 24, 2022
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi and Partner Nicole Gordon have been selected by their peers for inclusion in the 2022 Super Lawyers list. Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state are selected by the research team to be named a ‘Super Lawyer’.
Sohagi’s practice for the last 30 years has focused on assisting cities, counties, and other public agencies navigate the legal complexities of land use, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), climate change and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Sohagi provides practical legal advice, working directly with lead agency counsel, staff, and appointed elected officials. When necessary, she ardently defends lead agencies’ land use approvals and environmental determinations in judicial proceedings, and frequently heads mediation teams in settlement discussions.
Last year, the Los Angeles Business Journal recognized both Sohagi and Gordon as “Inspirational Women” in the law for their representation of public agencies as well as their leadership in the business community. Additionally, the Los Angeles Daily Journal recognized the firm as a Top Boutique for its work in land use law.
Gordon advises public agencies on complex environmental and land use matters at the administrative, trial, and appellate level. She focuses her practice on complex issues and projects under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the federal and California Endangered Species Act (ESA), and Planning and Zoning Laws.
Super Lawyers, part of Thomson Reuters, is a rating of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement.
AB 819: Changes to CEQA Noticing & Filing Requirements Starting January 1, 2022
Cheron J. McAleece, CCLS — Congratulations!
Published November 22, 2021
Cheron joins approximately 300 CCLSs throughout California. Certification is achieved by passing a comprehensive 8-hour examination. Candidates are tested in California legal procedures, legal terminology, performance skills, reasoning and ethics, law office administration, communications, and legal computations. Additionally, continuing legal education requirements must be met for recertification.
Cheron joined BHCCLSA in 2017 and currently serves the association as Second Vice President and Program Chair. She is also BHCCLSA’s Governor with Legal Professionals Incorporated. She is an experienced Paralegal, with more than 25 years in the legal field, as well as a Litigation Paralegal Certification from UCLA. Cheron has been employed as a paralegal for over 12 years at The Sohagi Law Group, PLC in Brentwood.
The Sohagi Law Group Named to 2022 “Best Law Firm” List by U.S. News
Published November 05, 2021
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced today that it has been included on the 2022 U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” list. The firm’s Land Use & Zoning Law practice is ranked as Tier 1, the highest ranking available, both nationally and regionally. The list is compiled annually by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®.
We are honored to be acknowledged by Best Lawyers, especially as this recognition is based on feedback from clients and peers,” said Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi. “This distinction is a testament to the diligence and hard work of all of the attorneys and the support team at The Sohagi Law Group.”
Law firms included in the 2022 “Best Law Firms” list are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers, according to the publication. The 2022 Edition of “Best Law Firms” includes rankings in 75 national practice areas and 127 metropolitan-based practice areas.
The 2022 rankings incorporate more than 8.2 million evaluations of more than 115,000 individual leading lawyers from more than 22,000 firms. The 2022 “Best Law Firms” rankings can be seen in their entirety by visiting bestlawfirms.usnews.com.
The Sohagi Law Group’s Margaret Sohagi and Nicole Gordon Recognized as Inspirational Women Award Nominees
Published September 07, 2021
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 7, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced today that its Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi and Partner Nicole Gordon have been selected as nominees by Los Angeles Times B2B Publishing for its inaugural ‘Inspirational Women Awards.’
For more information, please read the press release HERE.
CEQA Suspensions During Drought Conditions
Implications of the July 8, 2021 Drought Emergency Proclamation on the California Environmental Quality Act
Background on the Drought Emergency Proclamation
On Thursday, July 8, 2021, Governor Newsom issued another Drought Emergency Proclamation as drought conditions worsen across the State. The July 8, 2021 Proclamation added nine additional counties to the list of “Proclaimed Drought Counties” in California, bringing the total to 50 counties in a drought state of emergency. The Proclamation is available HERE.
Impacts on CEQA Review of State and Local Agency Decisions
Along with other measures, the July 8, 2021 Proclamation suspends California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) environmental review to the extent necessary to address the impacts of the drought for certain projects. The Proclamation suspends CEQA in the Proclaimed Drought Counties, for the purposes of carrying out paragraphs 3 and 10 of the Proclamation, for any a) any actions taken by the listed state agencies under the directives of those paragraphs, b) any actions taken by local agencies concurred with by the Office of Planning and Research as necessary, and c) permits necessary to carry out either a or b.
The actions in paragraphs 3 and 10 include:
- Local agencies taking actions to coordinate use of available supplies and substituting alternate existing well groundwater for the unused portion of surface water; and
- The State Water Resources Control Board (Water Board), the Department of Water Resources, the Office of Emergency Services, and the Office of Planning and Research’s assistance to local agencies in identifying acute drinking water shortages in domestic water supplies, and implementing solutions to those shortages.
Further CEQA Suspensions for State Agency Decisions
The July 8, 2021 Proclamation also suspends CEQA for carrying out and approving any state agency actions under paragraphs 4 through 9 of the Proclamation. These actions include:
- The Water Board’s consideration of modifying the requirements for either reservoir releases or diversion limitations to conserve water upstream;
- The Water Board’s consideration of the Proclaimed Drought Counties’ water transfers requests;
- State agencies entering into contracts for necessary “materials, goods, and services” to help the Proclaimed Drought Counties combat drought impacts;
- The Department of Water Resources, the Water Board, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Department of Food and Agriculture’s : a) acceleration of funding for certain types of water supply projects, b) funding of projects to address drought impacts, and c) recommending additional financial support for specific groundwater substitution pumping;
- The Water Board’s consideration of emergency regulations to curtail water diversions; and
- The Water Board and Department of Fish and Wildlife’s evaluation and implementation of minimum instream flows to protect native fishes. Where necessary, the agencies are directed to consider emergency regulations to establish the identified minimum drought instream flows in the Proclaimed Drought Counties.
Summary by Paige E. Samblanet, The Sohagi Law Group, PLC
Margaret Sohagi Among the Los Angeles’ Top Women Leaders
Published June 23, 2021
The Sohagi Law Group, congratulates Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi being selected as a nominee for the “Community Impact Advocate” Award and recognized in the Los Angeles Business Journal’s special supplement, published earlier this week. The 2021 Women’s Leadership Awards honors the accomplished and impactful women business leaders in the Los Angeles community.
For more information, please read the press release HERE.
Margaret Sohagi Selected to Best Lawyers in America 2021 “Women in Law” Business Edition
Published June 22, 2021
The Sohagi Law Group, congratulates Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi on her inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America 2021 “Women in Law” Business Edition.
For more information, please read the press release HERE.
Legislature Approves $100 Million to Local Jurisdictions To Process Commercial Cannabis Applications
On Monday June 14, 2021, the Legislature passed the state’s budget trailer bill, AB 128, which includes $100 million in grant funding to cities and counties for processing commercial cannabis business licenses.
Grant funding can be used for a defined set of activities, including the preparation of environmental documents pursuant to CEQA; the review, technical support, and certification of application requirements; or the funding of mitigation measures related to environmental compliance, including water conservation and water protection measures.
AB 128 lists the local jurisdictions eligible to receive grants and includes the maximum amount of funds available to each jurisdiction. Recipients eligible to receive the largest grants include the City of Los Angeles ($22 million), Counties of Humboldt and Mendocino ($18 million each), and the City of Oakland ($9 million). Other eligible jurisdictions include the Cities of Adelanto, Commerce, Desert Hot Springs, Long Beach, Sacramento, San Diego, and Santa Rosa; Counties of Nevada, Sonoma, and Trinity; and the City and County of San Francisco.
To obtain funding, eligible jurisdictions must submit an application to the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), a new department consolidating the state’s three legacy permitting authorities. The DCC will next specify the application procedure, determine deadlines, and review and approve grant applications.
In processing applications, the DCC shall consider annual plans submitted by the jurisdictions that explain how the funds will be used in a manner compliant with the provisions of AB 128 and DCC guidelines. This annual plan should specify “how the jurisdiction intends to address the provisional licensee environmental compliance requirements necessary to transition provisional licensees to annual licenses” and should contain “specific criteria” to help the state determine whether the jurisdiction made “measurable progress” towards that goal.
The full text of AB 128 discussing the requirements of the Local Jurisdiction Assistance Grant Program and listing the eligible jurisdictions and available amount of funding is available HERE.
A full recording of the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee meeting is available HERE.
Milja M. Miric, The Sohagi Law Group, PLC
California Environmental Quality Act Compliance
Lexis Practice Advisor® – Update
Published January, 2021
By R. Tyson Sohagi and Albert I. Herson
CEQA Practice Note– 2021 Update
R. Tyson Sohagi and Albert I. Herson are proud to announce the availability of the 2021 update of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Compliance Practice Note, published by LexisNexis.® The CEQA Practice Note comprehensively reviews the latest CEQA developments and trends, and provides CEQA practitioners with valuable insights and practice tips on how to navigate the CEQA process successfully. It covers the CEQA review and document preparation process step-by-step, and discusses litigation topics of particular interest to lead agencies and applicants.
For more information, please click HERE.
CALIFORNIA SUPREME COURT DENIES REVIEW AND DEPUBLICATION OF GOLDEN DOOR II
November 12, 2020
View the full update below by scrolling through the PDF below.[pdf-embedder url=”https://sohagi.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/201112-Golden-Door-II.pdf” title=”Golden Door”]
The decision is available HERE.
Margaret Sohagi Nominated for LABJ’s 2020 Women’s Leadership Awards
Published October 5, 2020
The Sohagi Law Group, PLC is proud to announce Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi is a nominee for the Los Angeles Business Journal’s 2020 Women’s Leadership Awards. This year’s Leadership Series and Awards is a three-part virtual symposiums and awards event. With the goal of continuing to engage, inform, educate and inspire, this year’s panelists will cover topics of ongoing importance from leading through change and mentorship to the road to entrepreneurship and navigating today’s work-life balance demands. For more information, please read the press release HERE.
New CEQA Noticing and Filing Options During COVID-19 Emergency
Published October 5, 2020
A new Executive Order, EO N-80-20, dated 9/23/20, gives lead agencies, responsible agencies, and applicants alternative means of complying with certain CEQA posting, noticing, and filing requirements during the pandemic. The alternative means to post, notice or file are to: post on the agency’s or applicant’s website, submit all materials electronically to the State Clearinghouse CEQAnet, and engage in outreach too known interested individuals and entities.
The CEQA provisions of EO N-80-20 are set forth in EO Section 8. Note that the EO is not written clearly because in the first paragraph it “conditionally suspends” certain CEQA posting, noticing, and filing requirements, then in the second paragraph says these requirements need not be suspended if the lead agency, responsible agency or applicant choose to follow the normal CEQA requirements.
EO N-80-20 is available HERE.
OPR’s summary of EO N-80-20 is available HERE.
Al Herson, The Sohagi Law Group, PLC
Margaret Sohagi Named as One of “The Best Lawyers in America”
Published August 20, 2020
The Sohagi Law Group, PLC is proud to announce Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi has been selected by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2021. Attorneys named to the publication were recognized by the legal industry for their professional excellence in 146 practice areas. For the 2021 Edition, over 8 million votes were analyzed, which resulted in the inclusion of more than 62,000 lawyers, or approximately 5% of lawyers in private practice in the United States. For more information, please read the press release HERE.
The Sohagi Law Group’s Margaret Sohagi to Chair Santa Monica College Foundation Board
Published June 25, 2020
Business Wire
The Sohagi Law Group, PLC is proud to congratulate Margaret Sohagi on being named Chair of the Santa Monica College Foundation Board. For more information, please read the press release HERE.
FOURTH DISTRICT REJECTS SAN DIEGO COUNTY’S CLIMATE ACTION PLAN AND ITS EIR
June 15, 2020
View the full update below by scrolling through the PDF below.[pdf-embedder url=”https://sohagi.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Golden-Door.pdf” title=”Golden Door”]
The decision is available HERE.
The Sohagi Law Group’s Nicole Gordon Among Los Angeles’ Top Women Attorneys
Published April 28, 2020
Business Wire
Congratulations to Nicole Hoeksma Gordon for being among the Los Angeles Business Journal’s list of Los Angeles’ Most Influential Women Attorneys! Please see the press release here HERE.
MARGARET SOHAGI RECOGNIZED AS A TOP RATED LAND USE AND ZONING ATTORNEY
January 21, 2020
Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced today that its Managing Partner, Margaret Sohagi, has been named by her peers for inclusion in the 2020 Super Lawyers list. Each year, only five of lawyers throughout California are selected by the research team to be named a ‘Super Lawyer’.
To see the press release, please click HERE.
NATIONAL LAW JOURNAL NAMES MARGARET SOHAGI OF THE SOHAGI LAW GROUP A TRAILBLAZER
November 04, 2019
Margaret Sohagi, Founding Partner of environmental and land use law firm, The Sohagi Law Group, today was named among National Law Journal’s list of Elite Boutique Trailblazers.
To see the press release, please click HERE.
THE SOHAGI LAW GROUP CELEBRATED AMONG DAILY JOURNAL’S TOP BOUTIQUES
October 25, 2019
The Sohagi Law Group , which assists cities, counties, and other public agencies in navigating the legal complexities of land use, California Environmental Quality Act and the National Environmental Policy Act, has been recognized by the Daily Journal as one of California’s leading boutique law firms for 2019.
To see the press release, please click HERE.
THE SOHAGI LAW GROUP’S MARGARET SOHAGI NOMINATED AS A LEADER IN LAW BY THE LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL
October 22, 2019
The Sohagi Law Group Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi has been recognized for her accomplishments as a leading attorney within the Los Angeles business community and selected as a nominee for the Los Angeles Business Journal’s Leaders in Law Awards.
To see the press release, please click HERE.
THE SOHAGI LAW GROUP WELCOMES ATTORNEY MARK DESROSIERS
June 3, 2019
Please join us in welcoming Mark J.G. Desrosiers to the firm. Mark focuses his practice on complex issues and projects under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Planning and Zoning Laws.
As a former clerk in both trial and appellate courts, Mark has unique insight into how to prepare projects for future legal challenges, and how to craft arguments in litigation that will be most persuasive to a judge. He also has experience working in the City Attorney’s Office of the City of Glendale, representing the City in both complex transactional matters and land use litigation as well as drafting City ordinances.
Prior to becoming a lawyer, Mark was a financial analysist with a boutique real estate investment firm, where he prepared complex financial models for bridge loan investments in hospitality and commercial properties. Mark has also worked on the 2019 updates for the California Municipal Law Handbook.
Mark earned his Juris Doctor degree, manga cum laude, in 2014 from University of San Francisco School of Law, where he served on Senior Staff of the USF Law Review.
THE SOHAGI LAW GROUP’S NICOLE GORDON AMONG LOS ANGELES’ MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN ATTORNEYS
April 8, 2019
Congratulations to Nicole Hoeksma Gordon being named one of Los Angeles’ Most Influential Women Attorneys!
To see the press release, please click HERE.
LAND USE ATTORNEY MARGARET SOHAGI TO RECEIVE AMICUS SERVICE AWARD
April 1, 2019
Sohagi Law Group Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi has been recognized for her firm’s support of public agencies’ power to regulate land use in a challenge by the Building Industry Association to the City of Oakland’s public art ordinance.
To see the press release, please click HERE.
U.S. NEWS-BEST LAWYERS RANKS SOHAGI LAW GROUP’S ZONING LAW PRACTICE TO TIER ONE
December 4, 2018
U.S. News & World Report has ranked the Sohagi Law Group among Tier One firms nationally for its Land Use Practice.
To see the press release, please click HERE.
SOHAGI LAW GROUP PARTNER NICOLE GORDON TO CHAIR ENVIRONMENTAL LAW SECTION OF THE CALIFORNIA LAWYERS ASSOCIATION
September 17, 2018
Sohagi Law Group Partner Nicole H. Gordon has been installed as the 2018-2019 Chair of the Executive Committee of the Environmental Law Section of the California Lawyers Association (CLA).
To see the press release, please click HERE.
California Environmental Quality Act Compliance
This Practice Note provides practical guidance on the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), California’s broadest environmental law. CEQA requires state and local governmental agencies that carry out or approve discretionary projects to evaluate, disclose, and mitigate environmental effects of those projects before taking action. CEQA does not establish regulatory environmental standards, but rather establishes broad environmental policies for the purpose of informing governmental decisionmakers and the public about the significant environmental effects of proposed projects and feasible ways to mitigate these effects. CEQA does not grant state or local agencies new powers to mitigate environmental effects of proposed projects. However, agencies may use powers granted by other laws to require project mitigation or deny or modify projects with significant adverse environmental effects.
See California Environmental Quality Act Compliance (lexis.com).
Attorney-client privilege: differing standards in state versus federal courts
Published March 8, 2023
By Benjamin S. Whittle
The Los Angeles & San Francisco Daily Journal
Congratulations to Associate, Benjamin S. Whittle for having his second article published in the Daily Journal. Don’t miss this informative article regarding the differing standards in applying attorney-client privilege in the state versus the federal court.
A copy of the article is available HERE.
California Environmental Quality Act Compliance
Lexis Practice Advisor® – Update
Published April, 2022
By R. Tyson Sohagi and Albert I. Herson
CEQA Practice Note– 2022 Update
R. Tyson Sohagi and Albert I. Herson are proud to announce the availability of the 2022 update of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Compliance Practice Note, published by LexisNexis.® The CEQA Practice Note comprehensively reviews the latest CEQA developments and trends, and provides CEQA practitioners with valuable insights and practice tips on how to navigate the CEQA process successfully. It covers the CEQA review and document preparation process step-by-step, and discusses litigation topics of particular interest to lead agencies and applicants.
California Environmental Quality Act Compliance
Lexis Practice Advisor® – Update
Published January, 2021
By R. Tyson Sohagi and Albert I. Herson
CEQA Practice Note– 2021 Update
R. Tyson Sohagi and Albert I. Herson are proud to announce the availability of the 2021 update of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Compliance Practice Note, published by LexisNexis.® The CEQA Practice Note comprehensively reviews the latest CEQA developments and trends, and provides CEQA practitioners with valuable insights and practice tips on how to navigate the CEQA process successfully. It covers the CEQA review and document preparation process step-by-step, and discusses litigation topics of particular interest to lead agencies and applicants.
The Sohagi Law Group’s Nicole Gordon Among Los Angeles’ Top Women Attorneys
Published April 28, 2020
Business Wire
Congratulations to Nicole Hoeksma Gordon for being among the Los Angeles Business Journal’s list of Los Angeles’ Most Influential Women Attorneys! Please see the press release here HERE.
Balancing Act: The Sohagi Law Group aims to avoid lawsuits and prepares public agencies for trial, too.
Published September 16, 2019
By Glenn Jeffers
Daily Journal
The Sohagi Law Group, PLC is honored to have been featured by the Daily Journal in a piece by Glenn Jeffers highlighting the unique collaborative approach to public agency CEQA and Land Use legal support in our boutique law firm.
For more information, please click HERE.
Complying with the California Environmental Quality Act
Published August, 2019
By R. Tyson Sohagi and Albert I. Herson
LexisNexis/Matthew Bender Practice Notes
R. Tyson Sohagi and Albert I. Herson are proud to announce availability of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Compliance Practice Note, published by LexisNexis.® LexisNexis Practice Notes provide professional guidance from leading attorneys on important legal topics such as CEQA compliance. The CEQA Practice Note comprehensively reviews the latest CEQA developments and trends, and provides CEQA practitioners with valuable insights and practice tips on how to navigate the CEQA process successfully. It covers the CEQA review and document preparation process step-by-step, and discusses litigation topics of particular interest to lead agencies and applicants.
For more information, please click HERE.
Administrative Record
Published November 30, 2018
By Margaret Sohagi and Kiana Amiri-Davani
AEP CEQA Portal Topic Paper
This paper is part of a series of papers on various CEQA Topics maintained on the Association of Environmental Professionals CEQA Portal. This paper provides authoritative and detailed practical guidance on preparing the Administrative Record for California Environmental Quality Act lawsuits. The Administrative Record constitutes the evidence considered by an agency in making their decision on a project and assists a court in its review of the agency’s action. The paper addresses issues CEQA practitioners frequently encounter when preparing the Administrative Record, such as: content and organization, costs, timing, certification, augmentation, and including extra-record evidence.
For more information, please click HERE.
California Environmental Law and Land Use Practice Treatise
Updated Annually
By Ron Bass and Albert I. Herson
Matthew Bender
Mr. Herson is co-author of four comprehensive CEQA chapters (Chapters 20-23) in Matthew Bender’s California Environmental Law and Land Use Practice treatise, edited by Ken Manaster and Den Selmi. The four chapters cover CEQA background, preliminary review, exemptions, Negative Declarations, EIRs, and CEQA litigation.
For more information and to order this valuable treatise, please visit the LexisNexis store HERE.
2018 Comprehensive CEQA Guidelines Amendments
Published February 2018 (Vol. 2018, No. 2, p. 59)
By Albert I. Herson
California Environmental Law Reporter (LexisNexis/Matthew Bender)
This article compressively reviews the 2018 CEQA Guidelines amendments in their close-to-final form. It also identifies practical implementation issues of concern to CEQA practitioners and consultants.
California Environmental Law & Policy: A Practical Guide, 2d Edition
Published 2017
By Albert I. Herson and Gary A. Lucks
(Solano Press)
Ambitious in scope, California Environmental Law and Policy is the only book that covers the entire field of California environmental, land use, and natural resources law in a concise, user-friendly format. Written in non-technical language, the book comprehensively surveys the most important California environmental statutes and regulatory programs, as well as relevant federal environmental statutes and regulatory programs. It highlights landmark court cases and current policy issues, and provides practical tips on getting through the regulatory process successfully.
For more information and to purchase this book, please visit Solano Press HERE.
CEQA’s Unusual Circumstances Exception
Published Spring 2016 (Vol. 25, No. 1)
By Nicole Hoeksma Gordon and Lauren K. Chang
Environmental Law News (Environmental Law Section of the State Bar of California)
This article analyzes the Supreme Court’s 2015 Berkeley Hillside Preservation v. City of Berkeley decision, and discusses application of the two standards of review the Court identified for the question of whether CEQA’s “unusual circumstances” exception applies to an otherwise-applicable categorical CEQA exemption.
For more information, please click HERE.
New EPA and USACE Regulations Revise Definition of “Waters of the United States”
Published October 2015 (Vol. 2015, No. 3, p. 75)
By Albert I. Herson
California Environmental Law Reporter (LexisNexis/Matthew Bender)
In 2015, the Environmental Protection Agency) and US Army Corps of Engineers published their final rule for defining “waters of the United States’” for purposes of Section 404 and other sections of the Clean Water Act. This article reviews the regulations’ historical background, contents. likely regulatory effects, and potential legal challenges.
Exactions and Impact Fees in California
Updated 2014
By William W. Abbot, Peter M. Detwiler, Thomas Jacobson, Margaret Sohagi and Harriet A. Steiner
(Solano Press).
Comprehensively updated, this is a practical, detailed guide for determining the appropriate and legally defensible mix of exactions and fees local governments may employ to ensure that developments help solve ever-increasing community needs. The book also includes definitive explanations about the distinctions among taxes, fees, assessments, land dedications, land reservations, and other exactions and development requirements.
For more information and to purchase this book, please visit Solano Press HERE.
SB 743 CEQA Guidelines: Hello VMT, Goodbye LOS
Published May 2016 (Vol. 2016, No. 5, p. 117)
By Albert I. Herson
California Environmental Law Reporter (LexisNexis/Matthew Bender)
In 2016, the Office of Planning and Research published a revised proposal to update the CEQA Guidelines to implement SB 743’s requirements for transportation impact analysis. This article reviews relevant background information, summarizes the contents of the revised proposal, and evaluates practical implications.
Demystifying CEQA’s Cumulative Impact Analysis Requirements: Guidance for Defensible EIR Evaluation
Published September 2011 (Vol. 2011, Issue No. 9, p. 379)
By Nicole Hoeksma Gordon and Albert I. Herson
California Environmental Law Reporter (LexisNexis/Matthew Bender)
This article illuminates the complex issues agencies face when conducting a cumulative impact analysis in an EIR. In doing so, it identifies relevant statutory and Guidelines requirements, as well as examples from case law, and provides practical strategies for addressing cumulative impacts. It also identifies solutions for avoiding common pitfalls in the EIR’s analysis of cumulative impacts.
For more information, please click HERE.
Funding Open Space Acquisition Programs: A Guide for Local Agencies in California
2005 Update
By Bill Higgins, Anya Lawler, Margaret Sohagi, Betsy Strauss and Terry Watt
Institute for Local Government
This Guide provides an overview of open space acquisition, including the legal authority to acquire property for open space, funding tools, feasibility of programs, property selection and management structures.
For more information, please click HERE.
Successful CEQA Compliance: A Step-by-Step Approach
October 31-November 1, 2024
Presented by UCLA Extension
Nicole Hoeksma Gordon is looking forward to, once again, co-chairing UCLA Extension’s Successful CEQA Compliance: A Step-by-Step Approach seminar. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) forms the backbone of the state’s system of environmental protection. CEQA requires governmental agencies to evaluate and consider the environmental impacts of a broad variety of projects that they carry out or approve. Thus, CEQA has important ramifications for both public entities and the private sector. CEQA also provides for public involvement, making it an important tool by which citizens and interest groups can participate in government planning and decision-making. This two-day workshop presents the fundamentals of CEQA, with emphasis on the policies, procedures, and practices necessary to make it successful. The workshop is designed for anyone new to CEQA as well as those needing a comprehensive refresher and should be of particular interest to public officials, agency staff, project applicants, attorneys, consultants, and interested citizens.
For more information and to register, please visit the conference website HERE.
CEQA Updates: Issues and Trends in 2024
November 4, 2024
Presented by UCLA Extension
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is a complex and dynamic law that changes from year to year. Keeping abreast of the latest developments is essential for professionals involved in any aspect of environmental impact assessment. This 2024 update features the latest court decisions and legislative amendments that influence your practice, plus:
- Keynote Speaker: Hon. Mary H. Strobel, (ret.)
- Subsequent CEQA Documents: Nagging Issues to Conquer
- How to Effectively Review an EIR
- Artificial Intelligence in the CEQA World: What you Need to Know
- Course Instructor Margaret Sohagi, Partner, The Sohagi Law Group, PLC and Special Guest Kathryn Oehlschlager, Partner, Downey Brand, LLP
For more information and to register, please visit the conference website HERE.
Registration is Open!
20th Annual CLE CEQA SuperConference: California Environmental Quality Act: Legislation, Case Law & Practice Tips
December 9-10, 2024
Presented by the CLE International
At the Grand Hyatt, San Francisco
Featured Presentation: Kate Gordon, CEO, California Forward
Nicole Hoeksma Gordon will be co-chairing CLE International’s 20th Annual CEQA Conference in San Francisco on December 9 and 10, 2024. This is the state’s premiere CEQA legal and policy conference, which last year drew over 175 attendees. Pre-eminent attorneys, planners, state officials, and experts will once again provide participants with the latest CEQA case law and regulatory developments, insights, trends, and practical advice. Tyson Sohagi will also be speaking at this event regarding CEQA and Artificial Intelligence. Attorneys will earn up to 12 hours MCLE credits, including 1 hour of ethics; planners will earn up to 12 hours of AICP/CM credits, including legal credits.
For more information and to register, please visit the conference website HERE.
Center for Biological Diversity v. County of Los Angeles
Court of Appeal, Second District, Case No. B284427 (Unpublished 2018 WL 3031521
Successfully defended the EIR the County prepared for its Antelope Valley Area Plan update at both the trial court and Court of Appeal. The Plan, a component of the County’s General Plan, covers approximately 1,800 square miles of the unincorporated County and is designed to preserving the natural environment and rural lifestyle and character of the Antelope Valley while responding to the growing population’s need for additional housing and employment opportunities. The Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit challenging the EIR and the Plan in 2015. The Firm successfully defended the Plan at trial in 2017, and again on appeal in 2018.
Stewards of Public Land v. City of Pasadena; Pasadena Roving Archers
Court of Appeal, Second District, Case No. B277996 (Unpublished 2018 WL 4141220)
Successful defense at trial and on appeal of the City of Pasadena’s CEQA exemption for the ongoing use of the Lower Arroyo Archery Range and deal points for a new agreement with Pasadena Roving Archers.
City of Moorpark v. County of Ventura/Wayne J. Sand and Gravel
(2018) Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. BS164626
Successfully represented the City of Moorpark in its petition for writ of mandate directing the County of Ventura to vacate its decision to approve the Wayne J. Sand and Gravel Mine Expansion Project to certify an Environmental Impact Report for the Project. The court found that the County’s approval of the Project violated the California Environmental Quality Act.
Silicon Valley Foundation for a Better Environment v. Santa Clara Valley Water District
(2018) Santa Clara County Superior Court Case No. 17-CV-318866
Obtained dismissal of case in the course of defending the Santa Clara Valley Water District against a challenge related a flood risk management project for Lower Berryessa Creek.
Building a Better Redondo v. City of Redondo Beach; CenterCal
(2018) Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. BS166124
Successful defense the City of Redondo Beach on 90% of the issues raised by petitioners related to the adequacy of the City’s CEQA Appeal Procedures, and the Environmental Impact Report/Entitlements for the Waterfront Development Project, a public/private project (with Redondo Beach Waterfront, LLC) that includes the demolition of approximately 200,000 sq. ft. of existing structures in the City’s Harbor, infrastructure upgrades, and construction of approximately 500,000 sq. ft. of retail, restaurant, creative office, specialty cinema, a public market hall, and a boutique hotel.
Cleveland National Forest Foundation, et al. v. San Diego Association of Governments
(2017)3 Cal.5th 497
Defended SANDAG in the litigation related to the EIR on the first Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS) in the state pursuant to SB 375. A decisive victory at the Supreme Court holding that an EIR is not required to explicitly address a Governor’s executive order, which set overall greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets, as a measure of significance or adopt the target as a goal.
Walters, et al. v. City of Redondo Beach
(2016) 1 Cal.App.5th 809
Successful defense at both the trial court and Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District of the City of Redondo Beach’s use of a Categorical Exemption and issuance of a conditional use permit sought by a private applicant for a proposed carwash. This litigation involved allegations associated with noise, traffic, vehicular safety, air quality, water supply, and due process.
Alliance for a Regional Solution to Airport Congestion, et al. v. City of Los Angeles (LAWA/TNC/NELA)
(2015) Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. BS158633
Successful defense of a CEQA exemption for a non-exclusive license agreement (NELA) allowing transportation network companies, i.e., Uber, Lyft and the like, to operate at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Alliance for a Regional Solution to Airport Congestion, et al. v. City of Los Angeles (LAWA/SPAS)
(2013) Ventura County Superior Court Case No. 56-2014-00451038-CU-WM-OXN; Court of Appeal, Second District, Division Six Case No. B272457.
Successful defense of the City and LAWA at the superior court level in three consolidated cases, originally involving six petitioners, in CEQA challenges to the approval of the Specific Plan Amendment Study (SPAS) project at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). (One petitioner, SEIU labor union, dismissed without prejudice.)
Santa Ana California Lodge LLC v. City of Santa Ana, et al.
(2012) Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30-2012-00556147-CU-WM-CXC.
Successfully defended the City of Santa Ana against a challenge to an EIR prepared for a sewer lift station project by a nearby property owner.
City of Redondo Beach v. City of Torrance, et al.
(2012) Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. BS140825.
Representation of the City of Redondo Beach challenging the City of Torrance’s approval of a “Minor Modification Permit” for the Del Amo Fashion Center, and an associated CEQA addendum. Case settled before trial.
Encinitas Union School District v. City of Encinitas
(2012) San Diego County Superior Court Case No. 37-2011-00058665-CU-WM-NC.
Representation of the City of Encinitas against the school district’s writ petition to direct the City to grant petitioner’s land use amendment application.
Tehachapi Area Critical Landuse Issues Group v. Tehachapi Valley Healthcare District
(2011) Kern County Superior Court Case No. S-1500-CV-275260
Successfully defended of the Tehachapi Valley Healthcare District’s mitigated negative declaration (MND) prepared in connection with hospital expansion and renovation project.
Nuñez v. City of National City
(2011) San Diego County Superior Court Case No. 37-2011-00078086-CU-MC-CTL.
A lawsuit was filed by a local citizen and funded by the Institute for Justice (Koch Brothers) alleging that the City provided an insufficient level of detail in its agenda for the adoption of its Comprehensive Land Use Update (which included a new general plan, amended specific plan, and new zoning). Our office completed preliminary briefing on the Brown Act issues, however the City elected to make the case moot by re-agendizing, rescinding, and readopting the Planning Commission and the City Council’s actions.
Building a Better Redondo v. City of Redondo Beach, et al.
(2010) Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. BS124769; Court of Appeal, Second District, Division 8 Case No. B226499.
The Firm defended the City in a writ alleging that the City failed to place certain Local Coastal Program (LCP) amendments up to a vote of the people of Redondo Beach under a recently adopted City Charter amendment. The case involved the complicated interaction between City Charter requirements, election law, the Coastal Act, and planning and zoning law. The trial court ruled against the City and made erroneous statements of law that were inconsistent with numerous existing cases. While the Firm appealed the decision on behalf of the City, the Court of Appeal ruled that the issues had become moot. Despite this legal challenge, the Firm assisted the City in obtaining a certified LCP for the first time in the City’s history.
Friends of Lacy Historic Neighborhood v. City of Santa Ana
(2010) Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30-2010-00388033-CU-WM-CXC (Settled before trial).
Defense of Transit Zoning Code and affordable development project within redevelopment area and related EIR. Negotiated settlement agreement that allowed development of the project and reuse of existing homes for affordable housing.
The Open Monterey Project v. Monterey County, et al.; LandWatch Monterey County v. County of Monterey
(2010) Monterey County Superior Court Nos. M109441 and M109434.
Defense of the County against two separate challenges to the County’s General Plan Update and General Plan EIR. The case involves CEQA and Government Code challenges.
The Firm assisted in the successful settlement of two other challenges to the County’s General Plan Update and EIR: Carmel Valley Association v. County of Monterey, et al. (2010) Monterey County Superior Court Case No. M109442; and Salinas Valley Water Coalition & Monterey County Farm Bureau v. County of Monterey, et al. Monterey County Superior Court Case No. M109451.
DeHoff v. City of Poway
(2010) San Diego County Superior Court Case No. 37-2010-00104510-CU-TT-CTL
Successfully defended City against challenge to a negative declaration (ND) prepared for a lighting and turf project at the Arbolitos Sports Field.
Conquest Student Housing, LLC v. City of Los Angeles
(2008) Los Angeles Superior Court BS108488
Obtained successful settlement of a challenge to the EIR prepared by the City of Los Angeles’ Community Redevelopment Agency for the University Gateway Project, a mixed-use student housing project adjacent to the University of Southern California.
Citizens for Quality of Life v. City of Encinitas
(2008) San Diego County Superior Court Case No. 37-2008-00100864-CU-WM-NC.
After providing legal review of the City’s EIR for a 44-acre sports park, the Firm successfully defended the City against a CEQA challenge.
Regents of University of California v. East Bay Mun. Utility Dist.
(2005) 130 Cal.App.4th 1361
Represented East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) in the Regents lawsuit for refund of allegedly excessive yearly water service charge. Cert. denied.
Rincon Del Diablo Mun. Water Dist. v. San Diego County Water Authority
(2004) 121 Cal.App.4th 813
Successfully defended the water authority through summary judgment in a challenge by some of its members relating to water rates.
Utility Cost Management v. East Bay Municipal Utility District
(2000) 79 Cal.App.4th 1242
Successfully defended challenge to East Bay Municipal Utility District’s rates and charges.
Garat v. City of Riverside
(1991) 2 Cal.App.4th 259
Successfully defended the City of Riverside in an appeal of trial court decision concerning initiative growth control measure and adequacy of Riverside general plan.
