About Brian

Depth of Knowledge

Recognized in the Bay Area and beyond as among the foremost business transaction attorneys, I break down complicated legal issues in accessible and clear language, empowering business owners to make intelligent, informed strategic decisions about their companies.

Since 1983, I have represented companies of every type, size and description, from Fortune 100 multinational conglomerates to “mom-and-pop” businesses and “solopreneurs”.

My clients represent a broad spectrum of industries and business sectors, from health care, architecture, construction, equipment supply, real estate, legal and financial services, business and project management, and the arts.

With compassion and patience, I help clients evaluate the risks and opportunities their companies present, and then guide them in developing  customized strategies and action plans that keep the business on track, thereby ensuring longevity and consistent success.

Experience

As a Bay Area native and resident of Oakland, I am deeply committed to the growth and success of small business in our community. I work closely with owners to help them understand the laws that apply to their specific industry and situation.

Among my primary responsibilities is making sure that owners are confident in addressing the legal risks and barriers their businesses may confront. Whether it’s selecting the appropriate business entity, understanding the contracts they enter into with vendors or their own clients, or putting in place a comprehensive business succession plan, collaboration with my clients helps them raise the bar in their respective professions and industries.

I offer workshops and seminars for business and real estate owners on various topics, including best practices, strategic planning, risk management and responsible corporate compliance.

For the Community

In addition to my legal work, I give back to the community through teaching, mentoring and volunteering; serve on the Alameda County Bar Association’s Board of Directors; have participated on the leadership teams of ProVisors and Business Networking International; am Board Chair of Oakland’s world renowned BANDALOOP; am a passionate amateur photographer and world traveler; and am an ardent collector of Mexican folk art.

Professional Credentials

• Martindale Hubbell AV-rating (Top 10% of attorneys nationwide)
• J.D., University of California Law, San Francisco (1983)
• Member, State Bar of California Bar (admitted 1983)
• Admitted to practice in all California State Courts
• Admitted to 9th Circuit, California North and Central District Courts

Community Activities and Interests

• Alameda County Bar Association, Board Member
• Oakland Chamber of Commerce, Member
• ProVisors, Member
• Business Network International BNI, Member
• BANDALOOP, Board member, past President
• The Other Bar of California, Inc., past Board member and past President
• Blue Devils Performing Arts, Inc., past Board member and past Vice-President

 Seminars and Publications

• Presenter, Business Succession Planning: Handling the What It’s Before they Happen
• Presenter, What Did I Just Sign?: Basic Business Contracts
• Presenter, Tricks, Techniques and Strategies for Short Sale Negotiations
• Presenter, How to Swim When Your House is Underwater
• Presenter, My Lips and Files are Sealed: When an Attorney’s Files become Evidence
• Presenter, Building the Road: Strategic Planning for Small Business
• Founder and instructor, Commercial Street Law & Business Center, providing training and workshops to business owners in areas of contract negotiation, dispute resolution, commercial transactions, intellectual property development and licensing, business capitalization, risk analysis and management, and corporate governance

Building Your Professional Network of Experts

By working with a team of experts, you’ll have a cohesive strategy that addresses all aspects of your financial and business planning, ensuring everything is aligned for your success.