State Years

Hawaii - HI 11 years

California - CA 29 years
Licensed for 11 years

State HI

Acquired 2012

Status
Active No misconduct found
Licensed for 29 years

State CA

Acquired 1994

Status
Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Jose Isaia Ybanez Utzurrum

Libel and slander Attorney at Los Angeles, CA

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5/5 Stars - Best Lawyer in LA, hands down.

I decided to consult Jose after reading his reviews on avvo, and am really glad that I did. I found him to be extremely knowledgeable, genuine, caring, and attentive. I didn't end up going through with his services after having an extensive discussion with him on the pros and cons of pursuing my particular case, but I really appreciate him being so sincere and generous with his time. The consultation was free, and I honestly wish I could give him more than 5 stars; he really deserves it. Very grateful for his help. Would HIGHLY recommend without any hesitation.

Thank god for lawyers like Joe!

Joe is not only an exceptional lawyer but a genuinely good guy. We were referred to Joe by the LA County Bar Association to represent us (3 family members) as defendants in a civil lawsuit. Joe was the 3rd lawyer we interviewed but he clearly stood out as he listened and provided his honest, straightforward assessment of our case. We hired him and he proved to be exactly as advertised...smart, patient, level headed, and ALWAYS there for us, anytime with any questions. Our situation was stressful but Joe knows how to put things into perspective and really cares about his clients. Ultimately, Joe helped us win our case...I highly, highly recommend Joe to all my friends & family...a no-b.s. lawyer that knows the law, knows legal strategy and most importantly, puts his clients first!

About Jose

Learn Jose’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Libel and slander

40%

Prosecution and defense of cases involving false accusations, false statements of fact, false reviews, civil rights violations, etc., that destroy personal and business reputations, including those issues that involve the Anti-SLAPP statute.
... Read more
29 years
Litigation

40%

Lawsuits in defamation, breach of contract, trade secrets violations, civil rights violations, disability and racial discrimination, harassment, threats of violence, annoyances and nuisances that require restraining orders. SLAPP statute litigation.
... Read more
29 years
Civil rights

20%

Prosecution and defense of civil rights lawsuits including, but not limited to, race, sex, age and gender discrimination, and rights of the disabled, involving public entities, law enforcement, employment and private business
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29 years

WITH OFFICES IN LOS ANGELES AND HONOLULU, MR. UTZURRUM IS A LICENSED ATTORNEY IN CALIFORNIA AND HAWAIʻI, ALONG WITH BEING A LICENSED SOLICITOR IN ENGLAND AND WALES. CALL (310) 591-3152

Doctorate degree from the School of Hard Knocks University

Contact Jose

Utzurrum Law Offices, A.P.C.

(310) 591-3152 Office

12121 Wilshire Boulevard

Suite 810

Los Angeles, CA, 90025

ulawoffices.com/

Message Get Directions

Utzurrum Law Offices, A.P.C.

(310) 591-3152 Office

4819 Kilauea Avenue

Suite 7

Honolulu, HI, 96816

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Reviews

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4.9 / 5.0

45 customer reviews

5 Star

98%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by anonymous | August 4, 2022

5/5 Stars - Best Lawyer in LA, hands down.

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Posted by David | January 14, 2023

Thank god for lawyers like Joe!

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Posted by Mark | August 2, 2022

Great and passionate attorney

This lawyer has been great!! He is attentive, compassionate,and will fight hard for your case. I would recommend him highly.

Posted by Kristina | August 21, 2023

Extremely polite and honest

I wanna thank MR Jose for today’s consultation he made a final point in my case evaluation and helped me to clarify my case eligibility, Thank you very much!! Very professional and friendly!

Posted by anonymous | April 6, 2023

anyone needing a housing lawyer

Looking for a lawyer can be intimidating and overwhelming. A kind, patient, and helpful person is what all we need. Joe did more than that. He willing gave his time to determine if my concerns were valid. He also gave his honest opinion. His approach is not about HIS money, but the CLIENT'S. While I didn't have a case, we reviewed why and what other options were still available to me. He looks at your individual situation with what is best for you.

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Posted by anonymous | January 28, 2023

Compassionate and knowledgeable

Joe’s approach is exactly how lawyers should be - no nonsense, no games. Instead he is incredibly personable, understanding and more than willing to provide guidance and advice that is actually in the best interest of the individual. He made himself available anytime I needed to get advice on my situation. He is the type of lawyer you want to work with, I am grateful we connected. Highly recommended.

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Posted by anonymous | March 30, 2022

Helped me greatly and expediently in a very contentious matter

My experience with Joe was an incredibly positive one. It was my first time foraying into legal territory in a particularly contentious situation, and Joe was incredibly empathetic with his communication and selflessly generous with his time. He advised me almost as though he was a distant relative, something I imagine is not terribly common in attorney and client relationships. I am deeply appreciative of Joe helping me in one of my most difficult times.

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Posted by Catherine | November 14, 2021

Excellent and Knowledgable Lawyer, Highly Recommended

Jose guided me through one of the most difficult ordeals that I have experienced with patience and skill. He walked me through the legal process every step of the way and was always there for me during the ups and downs of the case. He is an excellent communicator and kept in the loop with every update. His incredible knowledge and preparedness allowed us to win the case and I am so grateful to him! I absolutely recommend hiring him for your legal needs, he will go above and beyond for you.

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Posted by Don | November 12, 2021

Helped me with my small legal matter

After calling multiple legal aid offices and lawyers around town, nobody wanted to help me with my situation. Joe was different. He was recommended to me via LACBA's SmartLaw website. I told him about my issue (I was accused of being at-fault in a car accident), and was simply needing legal advice and help reading some paperwork I was served. I said I would pay him for an of hour of legal advice, however he then explained to me over the phone, free of charge for 15min, on what I should do. He explained thoroughly and was really nice to me about some of the legal questions I had. Not only that, he then *emailed* me on what we talked about it and gave me a link to where to fill out certain forms -- which I thought was extremely kind of him. I think the mark of a good lawyer is one that is nice. I should know... I work with lawyers in the corporate sector. In the future, if someone needs a lawyer, I would absolutely check with Joe first. No doubt. Thanks Joe.

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Posted by anonymous | September 1, 2021

Great advice , honest, helpful

I called this attorney for advice on a hippa case. He was super nice, helpful, and forthcoming with information to assist me in the case. Couldn’t recommend more.

Posted by Jeff | April 29, 2021

Thorough and helpful

Joe is the best. I was referred to Joe by the L.A. County Bar Association as their lawyer referral service's ONLY libel defense lawyer (I own a community newspaper). He was thorough and helpful, he obviously knows both the law and strategy, he reviewed my matter and talked about it in probably half an hour, and ended by telling me I don't need a lawyer (at least at this point) and that the other side doesn't have a case. As good as any lawyer I've ever known -- and my kid brother has been a lawyer for 50 years AND my first public relations client in the 1980s was the San Gabriel Valley Lawyer Referral Service. I had many lawyers as public relations clients as well. His clients are in good hands. Thanks again, Joe. Hope to be able to refer you some business.

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Posted by Joseph | April 13, 2021

Hard worker

Was very thorough in detailing the work he did and very honest about his opinion on the chances of winning. Explained everything to me so I could follow closely and understand.

Posted by Linda | February 19, 2021

Best lawyer for the job

Jose is one of the most transparent, genuine, and articulate lawyers I've ever had the pleasure of speaking with. I work with lawyers for a living so I know what I'm talking about and Jose tells it like it is, no BS. He was kind and extremely understanding of the situation I was going through. I am going to recommend him to anyone I can as he is the best. He is incredibly informative, real and helpful. Thank you Jose.

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Posted by Eric | February 19, 2021

Jose is patient and knowledgable!

I sent an email to Jose yesterday and he called me back within a couple of hours. He talked to me for an hour, listening to my story and giving me very sound advice free of charge! I wish that I could afford him, hopefully I will be able to work with him at some point in the future!

Posted by Elin | September 30, 2020

Spoke with integrity and honest options.

I consulted with Jose after being forwarded to him via a referal. He took the time to consult with me several times over the phone regarding a very emotonal situation regarding my son. Jose tokk the time to listen. He provided heartfelt personal advice in responce, that helped tremendously in naviagting a very difficult and emotionally charged situation. I deeply appriciated his perspective and empowering information. He could have easily taken the money I offered to pay for his time consulting me, or asked me for a retainer, he did not. To me this level of honesty and respect for his profession speaks volumes to his dedication and respect for the law. I feel he is truly in the field of law to be of assitance and helping people not just logging cases to make money. If I had moved in the direction of legal action, would have hired Jose without question.

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Posted by Mark | September 2, 2020

Needed some info

Jose listened and asked great questions in order to really understand my case. He was very professional and very proficient in explaining all of the pros and cons of filing my lawsuit. He answered every question that I had and if I did not understand something he make sure to clarify it for me. I would definitely recommend

Posted by Amber | August 28, 2020

Honest & Knowledgeable Lawyer

I highly recommend Joe, after speaking with 10+ local attorneys, I went back to him even though he was out of my area as I felt his genuine presence and he offered an honest consultation. He took to time to listen to my sensitive situation and was very throughout in explaining all possible outcomes in detail. So grateful for his honesty and intellectual legal advice!

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Posted by Holly | July 8, 2020

Sage Advice and a Solid Plan

I consulted Joe on a very complex and senitive issue involving slander/defamation. He spent time asking great questions and unpacking the details. He was patient and explained in detail the law surrounding the topic and also gave me his personal advice based on the senario. His insight gave me some peace for now and a plan should things escalate. I'm very grateful.

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Posted by Nathan | May 8, 2019

Highly intelligent and compassionate

Joe is not a run of the mill attorney. I consulted with him regarding a case I felt strongly about but he pointed out practical pitfalls that I had been blind to. He is a straight shooter, but incredibly diplomatic. I know if I ever have to move forward on such a matter, he would handle it with efficiency and excellent client care, no problem. Attorneys like this are one in a million. I should know, I am an attorney as well.

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Posted by anonymous | November 3, 2018

One of the BEST Attorneys out there!

We were so fortunate to find Joe! We were seeking someone that was highly qualified and experienced and Joe is clearly an expert. Joe is extremely knowledgeable and we appreciate how genuine and thorough he is. We appreciate his responsiveness and would not hesitate to recommend Joe - particularly for those who are looking for the BEST!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Owner
UTZURRUM LAW OFFICES A.P.C.
1996 - Present

Law Clerk then Associate Attorney
Law Office of Don H. Zell
1993 - 1996

Law Clerk
Orange County District Attorney's Office
1990 - 1991

Education

Western State University College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1993

University of Californa at Irvine
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1989

Legal Cases

United States District Court
Defense verdict

Los Angeles County Superior Court
Jury Verdict - Defendant held twenty percent liable

United States District Court
Case Dismissed prior to empanelling a jury

View all legal cases

Associations

Hawaii State Bar Association
Attorney Member
2012 - Present

Solicitors Regulatory Authority (England and Wales)
Practicing Solicitor
2010 - Present

Law Society of England and Wales
Member
2010 - Present

State Bar of California
Attorney Member
1994 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2020

AV Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2020

Top Contributor
AVVO
2014

Practicing Solicitor in England and Wales
Solicitors Regulatory Authority
2010

View all awards

Speaking Engagements

Civil Rights Luncheon with Los Angeles County Bar Association Staff
Civil Rights
2016

Orange County Bar LRIS Staff Luncheon
Civil Rights
2011

Attorney endorsements

Received (15)

Given (31)

Endorse Jose

Rixon Rafter

Libel and slander Attorney | May 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Clear legal thinking. Level headed. Common sense focused. Experienced. Jose has these qualities in spades. I would not hesitate to recommend Attorney Utzurrum to any family member of mine for any issue. I endorse this lawyer."

Mark Tischhauser

Unknown Attorney | May 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He has a wealth of knowledge and provides practical and useful advice that people can understand."

Shawn Alexander

Litigation Attorney | May 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer, his skill and experience speak volumes and furthermore the number and variety of jurisdictions where he is licensed show his vast knowledge is recognized internationally."

Peter Weinman

Libel and slander Attorney | Nov 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Having read several answers provided here on Avvo, I can see this attorney is knowledgeable and for that reason I endorse him."

Jon Woolsey

Litigation Attorney | Dec 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Whether you need help with a business issue or real estate matter, Jose is the man to contact in LA!"

Douglas Borthwick

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Oct 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Jose is a very sharp and competent attorney."

Lilian Demonteverde-Hoats

Litigation Attorney | Sep 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sandra Bauer

Litigation Attorney | Aug 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Utzurrum is a very talented and skilled attorney."

James Shields

Unknown Attorney | Aug 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer with no reservation. An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community. Very hardworking and diligent. Consistently achieves superior results. Advice is always practical and on point. I recommend to anyone looking for an attorney who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of clients and achieving the most favorable result possible. I endorse this lawyer."

Robert Bonito

Business Attorney | Aug 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Joe is a seasoned litigator who is passionate for his clients' causes. I highly recommend him ."

Kyle Tatum

Litigation Attorney | Jul 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jose's contributions and advice are always on point. He is an asset to this website and the legal profession."

Michael Doland

Business Attorney | Jul 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Utzurrum is a great asset for the Avvo askers. His answers are consistently accurate, analytic, and customized to the needs of the Avvo askers. These are exactly the qualities that every client would look for when hiring an attorney."

Peter Marek

Litigation Attorney | Jul 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Jose. He has a very good reputation in Los Angeles with his peers. Read his reviews and endorsements and than you will want to schedule a consultation. If you are in or near Los angeles give him a call."

Sarkis Sirmabekian

Unknown Attorney | Jul 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I strongly endorse Attorney Utzurrum. He is a credit to the profession."

Richard Wagner

Litigation Attorney | Aug 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's outstanding trial work. Mr. Utzurrum is one of the most feared trial lawyers in the Southland. I have seen him try cases and have observed first-hand Mr. Utzurrum persuasive effect on juries and him standing up to judges when appropriate to advance his client's interests in high stakes litigation."

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Rixon Rafter

Libel and slander