Jose Isaia Ybanez Utzurrum

PRO

Jose Isaia Ybanez Utzurrum

also known as Joe Utzurrum

4.9
Rating: 9.8

Licensed for 31 years

Litigation Lawyer at Los Angeles, CA
Practice Areas: Litigation, Libel & Slander, Civil Rights

12121 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 810, Los Angeles, CA

Virtual Consultation Available

About Jose

Biography

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

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

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

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

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Litigation 50%

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.

31 years

50%
Civil Rights 25%

Prosecution and defense of civil rights lawsuits including, race and rights of the disabled, involving public entities, law enforcement, employment and private business. Termination of Federal employees by action by the Dept of Government Efficiency

31 years

25%
Libel and Slander 25%

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.

31 years

25%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Hourly Rates

$ 450-650 per hour


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check

Licenses

Licensed in Hawaii for 13 years

State: Hawaii

Acquired: 2012

Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in California for 31 years

State: California

Acquired: 1994

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Utzurrum Law Offices, A.P.C.

12121 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 810, Los Angeles, CA, 90025

ulawoffices.com/

Utzurrum Law Offices, A.P.C.

4819 Kilauea Avenue, Suite 7, Honolulu, HI, 96816

ulawoffices.com/

Jose Isaia Ybanez Utzurrum's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

55 Client Reviews

5 star (54)
4 star (0)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (1)

Posted by anonymous | November 7, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Compassionate, practical, honest

I am representing myself in a civil matter and needed specific legal help for an anti-SLAPP hearing. I was lucky to be referred to Avvo, and even luckier to find Joe—his experience in this area stood out immediately. Joe took the time to talk with me, educate me, and walk me through the basics so ...I could make an informed decision before spending money on document review. He was upfront, patient, and genuinely cared about helping me do what was best for my situation. Although I could only afford limited-scope assistance, Joe spent extra time answering my questions without charging for every minute. I paid for his document review, and when the time went over budget, I was more than happy to pay for the additional work because it was worth every penny. I feel my money was very well spent, and I hope to be lucky enough to continue working with Joe in the future.

Posted by Phontaine | September 25, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Excellent communication, honest, competent

We hired Joe for a defamation case. He had excellent communication and is clearly a competent lawyer. He listened closely and reviewed our evidence and documentation. Ultimately, on Joe's counsel, we chose not to pursue the case due to the prohibitive cost. We appreciated Joe's candor and honesty and... competence. Would recommend. Joe's parents raised a good man. :-)

Posted by anonymous | September 13, 2025 | Consulted Attorney

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

"Exceptional Listener, Expert Advice: Why Joe Tops the List"

"Joe, out of the 10+ lawyers I consulted, you were the first to quickly grasp my situation and make it so easy to open up and chat. Hands down, you were the best by far! I truly enjoyed your insightful feedback, and connecting with you during the complimentary consultation was incredibly worthwhile. ...Thank you for going the extra mile to really listen—I'm so grateful! If you're on the fence about legal help, Joe is absolutely worth giving a call—you won't regret connecting with him."

Posted by anonymous | July 30, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Case Dismissed !

I hired Joe Utzurrum, Esq. of Utzurrum Law Offices, A.P.C., to help me with a what seemed like a completely frivolous lawsuit, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the result—he got it dismissed. From the beginning, Joe was professional, timely, and transparent. He clearly explained the legal proce...ss and kept me informed every step of the way. What stood out most was the time he took to truly understand my previous business and the specifics of the case. That kind of attention to detail made a big difference. With Joe, you get a lawyer who is knowledgeable, thorough, and truly works for you. If you need a reliable and skilled attorney in California, Hawaii, or even the UK (he’s also a licensed solicitor in England and Wales), I highly recommend Joe Utzurrum and his team at Utzurrum Law Offices.

Posted by anonymous | July 25, 2025 | Consulted Attorney

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

Defamation lawyer in LA

I had a consultation with Attorney Utzurrum regarding a potential defamation case, and I left the meeting feeling incredibly reassured and informed. From the start, he was attentive, professional, and compassionate. He took the time to really listen to the details of my situation and offered thoughtf...ul, strategic guidance without making me feel rushed or overwhelmed. What truly stood out was his ability to explain complex legal concepts in a way that was easy to understand, while also being realistic about the challenges and potential outcomes. It’s clear that Attorney Utzurrum not only has deep legal expertise but also genuinely cares about the people he works with. Even though it was just a consultation, it gave me the clarity and confidence I needed to decide on next steps. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to anyone navigating a defamation issue or any other sensitive legal matter.

See All Client Reviews

Jose Isaia Ybanez Utzurrum's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Jose
Rixon Charles Rafter III headshot
Rixon Rafter

Libel and slander lawyer | 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 Theodore Tischhauser headshot
Mark Tischhauser

Unknown lawyer | 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 B Alexander headshot
Shawn Alexander

Litigation lawyer | 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 J Weinman headshot
Peter Weinman

Libel and slander lawyer | 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 William Woolsey headshot
Jon Woolsey

Litigation lawyer | 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 MacMillan Borthwick headshot
Douglas Borthwick

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | Oct 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Lilian Demonteverde-Hoats headshot
Lilian Demonteverde-Hoats

Litigation lawyer | Sep 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sandra Lynn Bauer headshot
Sandra Bauer

Litigation lawyer | Aug 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

James Charles Shields headshot
James Shields

Unknown lawyer | 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 Alexander Bonito headshot
Robert Bonito

Business lawyer | Aug 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Kyle R. Tatum headshot
Kyle Tatum

Litigation lawyer | 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 Charles Doland headshot
Michael Doland

Business lawyer | 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 John Marek headshot
Peter Marek

Litigation lawyer | 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 headshot
Sarkis Sirmabekian

Unknown lawyer | Jul 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Richard Wagner headshot
Richard Wagner

Litigation lawyer | 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."

View All Endorsements
Rixon Charles Rafter III headshot
Rixon Rafter

Libel and slander lawyer

Thomas J Callahan headshot
Thomas Callahan

Libel and slander lawyer

Andrew Albert Rozo headshot
Andrew Rozo

Libel and slander lawyer

Brian C. Pascale headshot
Brian Pascale

Libel and slander lawyer

Mark Theodore Tischhauser headshot
Mark Tischhauser

Libel and slander lawyer

Robert P. Pentangelo headshot
Robert Pentangelo

Libel and slander lawyer

Peter J Weinman headshot
Peter Weinman

Libel and slander lawyer

Stephen Clark Harkess headshot
Stephen Harkess

Libel and slander lawyer

William Emil Cassara headshot
William Cassara

Libel and slander lawyer

Chad Franchy headshot
Chad Franchy

Libel and slander lawyer

Kent Ninomiya headshot
Kent Ninomiya

Libel and slander lawyer

Shawn B Alexander headshot
Shawn Alexander

Libel and slander lawyer

Nathan Mubasher headshot
Nathan Mubasher

Administrative law lawyer

Sandra Lynn Bauer headshot
Sandra Bauer

Litigation lawyer

Mark Reman Hamilton headshot
Mark Hamilton

General practice lawyer

James Charles Shields headshot
James Shields

Estate planning lawyer

Robert Alexander Bonito headshot
Robert Bonito

Litigation lawyer

Michael Frederick Obrand headshot
Michael Obrand

Litigation lawyer

Kyle R. Tatum headshot
Kyle Tatum

Personal injury lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.8 (Superb)

Honors

2020

Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2020

AV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2014

Top Contributor, AVVO

2010

Practicing Solicitor in England and Wales, Solicitors Regulatory Authority

Work Experience

1996 - Present

Owner, UTZURRUM LAW OFFICES A.P.C.

1993 - 1996

Law Clerk then Associate Attorney, Law Office of Don H. Zell

1990 - 1991

Law Clerk, Orange County District Attorney's Office

Associations

2012 - Present

Hawaii State Bar Association

Attorney Member

2010 - Present

Solicitors Regulatory Authority (England and Wales)

Practicing Solicitor

2010 - Present

Law Society of England and Wales

Member

1994 - Present

State Bar of California

Attorney Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Los Angeles County Superior Court

Jury Verdict in favor of plaintiff

Los Angeles County Superior Court

Defendants' Motion for Directed Verdict granted against plaintiff

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

Orange County Superior Court

Defense Jury Verdict

Los Angeles County Superior Court

Settlement after jury empanelled and presentation of case

Orange County Superior Court

Settlement after jury empanelled and presentation of case

Orange County Superior Court

Plaintiff's Jury Verdict

Orange County Superior Court

Plaintiff's Jury Verdict

United States District Court

Defense Court Judgment

United States District Court

Plaintiff's Jury Verdict

Orange County Superior Court

Plaintiff's Jury Verdict

Orange County Superior Court

Defense Jury Verdict

Orange County Superior Court

Settlement immediately before Jury came back with verdict

Orange County Superior Court

Defense Jury Verdict

Orange County Superior Court

Dismissed by court after jury empanelled

San Diego County Court Case No. 715007

Defense Jury Verdict

San Bernardino County Superior Court

Defense jury verdict

See More Legal Cases

Education

1993

Western State University College of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1989

University of Californa at Irvine

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2016

Civil Rights Luncheon with Los Angeles County Bar Association Staff

Civil Rights

2011

Orange County Bar LRIS Staff Luncheon

Civil Rights

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution