Gerald Barry Dorfman

I am responsible for all matters handled by my office. Paralegals, law clerks and associates may be utilized in appropriate situations, but the buck stops with me. Intentionally remaining small has enabled me to continue to provide unparalleled personal attention and confidentiality. My clients are the reason I am here, and I work hard for the best results possible. I am honored by the trust placed in me, and strive to maintain it at the highest level. You are entitled to understand the law applicable to your matter and the options available, as well as my best advice. I have served hundreds of satisfied clients over the years and look forward to continuing to serve with determination, skill and integrity.

• Litigation

• Credit Cards Accepted
  Through PayPal and Venmo.
• Contingent Fees
  Contingency fees range from 15% to 45%. These apply to personal injury cases, and select other matters.
• Rates, Retainers and Additional Information
  Regular hourly rate is $500.

California

Since 1983

9th Circuit

Since 1984

Columbia University

B.A.

UC Law SF

Law Degree

Lead Counsel Rated

Lead Counsel

2023

Lead Counsel Rated

Lead Counsel

2022

Lead Counsel Rated

Lead Counsel

2020

Lead Counsel Rated

Lead Counsel

2018

Lead Counsel Rated

Lead Counsel

2016

California State Bar  # 107581

Member

1983 - Current

Q. Can my landlord charge a lockout fee not in the lease in Los Angeles?

March 28, 2025

A: If a landlord wants to change a lease term, written notice is required in most cases. However, as you state, nothing is stated in the lease regarding such a charge. Since a landlord is not required to let a tenant in, there is nothing keeping them from charging for such a service. If you get locked out, and do not want to pay the fee to the landlord, you can pay a locksmith to let you in.

Q. Options for addressing medical malpractice after biopsy complications

March 24, 2025

A: For a medical malpractice action to be successful, it must be shown that the conduct of the medical practitioner fell below the applicable "standard of care". Almost always, that requires the opinion of an expert. What you describe as an admission of an error may have only been a statement of what happened, not an admission that the cause was something below the standard of care. Bleeding is a risk of kidney biopsies. The medical complications you describe would also have to be connected to any malpractice by an expert. In other words, it would have to be shown they resulted from malpractice. All this is to explain that these types of legal actions are complicated and expensive to pursue, so your relative may have to speak with numerous malpractice attorneys. There is also a short time frame for starting legal action, so now would be the time to begin contacting attorneys. ... Read More

Q. Is this a failure of consideration for an auction motorcycle?

March 22, 2025

A: Sorry to hear of your unfortunate experience. "Failure of consideration" would not be a viable theory. The damages related to the alleged fraud and failure to maintain the bond would be recoverable in your legal action. It would likely be worth your while to have the contract terms reviewed by a California attorney, to determine what sort of action (civil lawsuit, arbitration) would be required, and to provide you with an estimate of the costs. Unfortunately for you, small claims court actions are capped at $12,500. If the contract provides for attorney fees to the prevailing party, you are in much better shape.