Born in San Luis Obispo County, graduated from Stanford University with a degree in Economics 1971, and the University of San Diego School of Law in 1975. Admitted to the California Bar in 1975. Began practice in San Diego and moved to San Luis Obispo in 1976. Partner in Ernst and Mattison since 1980, specializing in civil litigation. Extensive trial experience. Tried over 100 cases to verdict. Member American Board of Trial Advocates, American Associaton for Justice, Trial Lawyers for Public Justice, President and Founder of the Central Coast Trial Lawyers Association, 1990, San Luis Obispo County Bar Association President 2002-2003, Consumer Attorneys of California board of governors from 1990 to present, and currently President-elect. Taught over 30 CEB programs on tort and insurance law from 1988 to present. Authored articles for Forum and the California Bar Journal on torts and civil procedure. Adjunct professor Cal Poly State University 1978 through 92. Central Coast Trial Lawyer of the Year 1998, 2002. Martindale-Hubbell rated.