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Benjamin Aguilar

also known as Ben Aguilar
This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2018. Read more
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About Benjamin

Ben Aguilar received his J.D from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in 2011 where he was the President of the International Law Society. Ben received his B.A. in Sociology with a minor in Education from the University of California, Irvine in 2007.

 

Before attending law school, Ben had the opportunity to work for the Spanish Justice Department in Barcelona, Spain where he worked directly with victims and perpetrators of domestic violence. This experience prompted Ben’s desire to attend law school and commit to public interest and ensuring all individuals have equal access to the justice system.

 

While attending law school, Ben served as the American Bar Association's 9th Circuit Lieutenant Governor of Communications and as a member of the National Advisory Committee for Equal Justice Works. Ben spent his first summer in law school clerking at the Center for International Protection in Moscow, Russia where he assisted in providing legal aid to Russian nationals' victims of human right violations in filing complaints before the European Court of Human Rights. He spent the summer after his second year in law school taking law classes in Hangzhou, China. Ben clerked at the American Civil Liberties Union of San Diego and Imperial Counties for two years and also volunteered with the California Innocence Project.

 

Ben currently serves on the Thomas Jefferson School of Law Alumni Board of Directors. He has previously served in the board of directors for the Coalition for Reproductive Choice, and Visionaries In Philanthropy (Meals-On-Wheels San Diego).

 

Ben is admitted to practice law in California and the Southern federal district of California. He is a member of the American Bar Association, San Diego County Bar Association, La Raza Lawyers, National Lawyers Guild, and the Tom Homann LGBT Law Association.

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Practice areas

OtherChild supportChild custodyDivorce and separationFamily
  1. Family: 40%

    Premarital Agreements Adoption Divorce Child Custody Restraining Orders Child and Spousal Support Asset Division LGBT Issues

  2. Divorce and separation: 20%

  3. Child custody: 20%

  4. Child support: 10%

  1. Immigration: 10%

    Naturalization Services / Citizenship Non-Immigrant Visas (Education, Business, Tourism, etc) Family Based Immigration Deportation / Immigration Removal LGBT Immigration Issues

Languages spoken

Spanish, Catalan

Photos and videos

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4217563 1374338420

4217563 1381685065

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4217563 1431473610

Contact

Law Offices of Ben Aguilar

101 W. Broadway
Suite 1770
San Diego, CA, 92101

    Law Offices of Ben Aguilar

    1265 W. State Street
    Suite 104
    El Centro, CA, 92243

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    CAActive201205/09/2021

    Professional misconduct


    This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority.

    • Discipline with Actual Suspension
      issued in CA, 2018

      updated on 01/16/2019

      This sanction means the attorney lost his or her license to practice law for a period of time. The attorney typically returns to practicing law when the suspension expires.

    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers192
    Legal guides0
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    On the Rise - Top 40 Young LawyersAmerican Bar Association2016
    Best LGBT Lawyers Under 40National LGBT Bar Association2016
    Outstanding Service to Legal Profession AwardSan Diego County Bar Association2015
    Best of the BarSan Diego Business Journal2015
    40 Under 40 // 2015 EditionSan Diego Metro Magazine2015
    Latino Impact - Volunteer of the YearSan Diego Magazine2015
    Founder's AwardFamily Justice Center Alliance2014
    Top Attorney / Semi-Finalist (Family Law 2014)San Diego Daily Transcript2014
    Best of the Bar 2014San Diego Business Journal2014
    Latinos Making a Difference (Finalist)San Diego Magazine2014
    Semi-Finalist Top Attorneys 2013 (Family & Immigration)San Diego Daily Transcript2013
    Latinos Making a Difference - FinalistSan Diego Magazine2013
    2013 Young AttorneySan Diego Daily Transcript2013
    Pro-Bono Service AwardThomas Jefferson School of Law2011
    Leadership and Service AwardAmerican Bar Association2011
    Student Organization President of the YearThomas Jefferson School of Law Student Bar Association2011
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    AttorneyLaw Offices of Ben Aguilar2012 - Present
    Attorney / ParalegalLaw Offices of Philip M. Cohen2012 - 2012
    Law ClerkAmerican Civil Liberties Union of San Diego and Imperial Counties2010 - 2012
    Law ClerkCalifornia Innocence Project2010 - 2010
    Law ClerkACON Laboratories2009 - 2009
    Law ClerkCenter for International Protection2009 - 2009
    Law ClerkSpain Justice Department2005 - 2006
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    Tom Homann Law AssociationCo-President - Board of Directors2014 - Present
    American Bar AssociationVice Chair - Alternative Families Committee2014 - Present
    No Silence No ViolenceBoard of Directors2014 - Present
    San Diego La Raza Lawyers AssociationBoard of Directors2014 - Present
    American Bar AssociationFamily Law Fellow2014 - Present
    San Diego Human Dignity FoundationProfessional Advisor Network2013 - Present
    San Diego La Raza Lawyers AssociationCommunity Outreach Co-Chair2014 - 2015
    San Diego County Bar Association, New Lawyer DivisionBoard of Directors2013 - 2014
    Thomas Jefferson School of Law Alumni Association Board of DirectorsBoard of Directors2011 - 2015
    Equal Justice WorksNational Advisory Committee2010 - 2012
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    Family Law AdvocateShould I Open a Family Law Office?2016
    San Diego Downtown NewsA Fresh Approach to Helping Veterans2014
    San Diego Daily Transcript2013 Young Attorneys2013
    For the Record'Tis the Season - Time to Reflect, Re-Group and Give Back2013
    The AdvisorTJSL Alumni Staying Involved2013
    San Diego Union TribuneLaw Incubators Help New Attorneys2013
    The AdvisorElected to the Board of Directors of the Thomas Jefferson School of Law Alumni Association2013
    The AdvisorFree Clinics Help to Close the Justice Gap2013
    Thomas Jefferson School of Law WebsiteTJSL's Dean Hasl, Alumni and Faculty in San Diego Lawyer Magazine2013
    The New York TimesLaw Schools Are Opening Law Firms2013
    The AdvisorOpen House2013
    The AdvisorCenter for Solo Practitioners has International Ties2013
    San Diego Daily TranscriptSan Diego County Top Attorneys2013
    UnivisionFree Legal Clinic in District 82013
    The AdvisorTJSL Launches Solo Practice Incubator2012
    The AdvisorBen Aguilar '11 Working Toward Equal Justice2012
    The AdvisorNew TJSL Alumni Board Sworn In2012
    The AdvisorCenter for Solo Practitioners - Bio2012
    The AdvisorA Lawyer Incubator2012
    Equal Justice WorksLaw School Beyond the Classroom: Networking!2011
    The AdvisorStudent Organization President of the Year2011
    The DeclarationVarious2011
    The AdvisorBen Aguilar Joins Equals Justice Works' National Advisory Committee2010
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Universitat de BarcelonaBA - Bachelor of ArtsN/A
    American Business and Legal Education - Moscow,RussiaJD - Juris DoctorN/A
    Thomas Jefferson SOLN/AN/A
    Univ of California IrvineN/AN/A
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    American Bar AssociationWhat Do Lawyers Do?2016
    American Bar Association, Family Law SectionEvidence Bootcamp2015
    American Bar Association, Family Law SectionThe Practice of Family Law2015
    Maestría en Litigaciòn OralLL.M in Trial Advocacy (Spanish) - Family Law2014
    Diversity WeekDiversity in the Legal Profession2014
    “Cutting-Edge Legal Entrepreneurship: Starting a Law Practice in a Law School Incubator”.“Cutting-Edge Legal Entrepreneurship: Starting a Law Practice in a Law School Incubator”.2013
    Self-Help Clinic TrainingFamily Law Self-Help Clinic Training2013
    Legal Education and Exchange Program (LEEP)Introduction to International Human Rights2013
    La Raza LawyersNetworking for Lawyer and Law Students2013
    Internet Marketing for Solo PractitionersInternet Marketing for Solo Practitioners2013
    International Access to JusticeInternational Access to Justice2013
    International Access to JusticeInternational Access to Justice2013
    Foundation for WomenRecurrent Issues in Immigration and Family Law2013
    Family Law for the Solo PractitionerFamily Law for the Solo Practitioners2013
    Duct Tape MarketingPublic Relations 1012013
    Constitution DayConstitution Day2013
    Community Lawyers Summer ProgramAccess to Justice Overview2013
    Case ReferralsLegal Issue Spotting Seminar2013
    Avvo and the Solo PractitionerAvvo and the Solo Practitioner2013
    Career FairTransitioning from College to Graduate School2009
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    Ramos MatterGranted.

    Reviews

    (23)
    5 Star
    		91%
    4 Star
    		0%
    3 Star
    		0%
    2 Star
    		0%
    1 Star
    		9%
    Review Benjamin Aguilar

    Honest and Realistic

    Posted by

    I felt compelled to write this due to some if the begative reviews I saw. My experience wasn't anything like those experiences. I'm not sure if he is as aggressive as some people may like, but I thought he handled the opposing counsel quite well when we convened before court. Ben is 100% honest and realistic. He's not going to tell you what you want to hear, he's going to tell you what the likely outcomes will be. Family court is complicated and even when you think you have compelling evidence, the judge may shrug and not care (that happened to me). After court, my ex vegan violating the order immediately. I contacted Been and his advice was to document everything and then contact him down the road because contacting him with every incident eats up your retainer. So, if you want someone to placate to you, go throw away your money with a different attorney. If you want someone that is level headed, offering honest advice and giving you realistic outcomes, contact Ben. Chris W.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Wonderful attorney

    Posted by

    Ben took my case after I went to court for restraining order and the respondent had showed up with council, so I requested for extension to seek council and I found Ben and was I pleased with his representation. I met him right away and he made me comfortable and was very kind. He showed up on time and executed well. Due to having a toddler involved Ben performed graciously but also helped to make sure I didn't leave without any written agreement for protection on my end signed by the judge. We came to an agreement for our toddler son and really was pleased and thankful I had Ben at my side. Thank you Ben your a great man.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    HONEST!

    Posted by

    Ben was very honest from the moment I stopped by his office for a consultation. He told me what to expect and did not sugarcoat anything. He told me what he could do and could NOT do for me. He did not promise me an outcome, but explained potential outcomes based on his experience. The case resolved within a reasonable time and in a very cost-effective manner. I would certainly recommend Ben to a family member or a close friend.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    The best lawyer I ever spent money on

    Posted by

    Thank you Ben for everything, for me and my son. I just got custody of my son after spending over 13k on attorneys and other legal fees over 10 yrs of hard work sweat and tears. I'm grateful to have found Ben and to have him on my team. I would recommend Ben to my closest friends and family members, so if you are thinking about retaining Ben, don't think twice! -Efrain
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Straightforward.

    Posted by

    Ben was very straightforward from the very first time we met. When I explained my situation to him, he immediately told me what would be realistic under the circumstances instead of telling me what I wanted to hear just to retain me as a client. I interviewed 4 other attorneys prior to hiring Ben and all other attorneys told me what they thought I wanted to hear. Ben's honesty was what made me retain him as my attorney. Things turned out just the way he told me during that first meeting. No surprises.

    Delivered what I wanted/needed

    Posted by

    My divorce, custody and visitation case started in 2012. I spent over $80,000 in attorney fees prior to retaining Ben. Once I retained Ben, I told him what I wanted to accomplish. He made no promises, but he started working on my case as soon as I left his office. Ben was able to finalize my case in 3 months. I wish I had come across Ben back in 2012 when I filed for divorce. I would have saved money and time.

    Paternity and Child Support Case

    Posted by

    Mr. Aguilar helped me establish paternity and child support. My son was born out of wedlock and father refused to pay support. Father is self-employed and he does not report his earnings accurately to the IRS. Mr. Aguilar helped me show the court that my son's father makes substantially more money than what he was reporting to the court. I really had no idea how to go about showing to the court that he was lying about his income. Once we established paternity, Mr. Aguilar also represented me in the custody and visitation aspect of this case and we were able to get a very favorable court order.

    Mr. Aguilar helped me clear my name

    Posted by

    My divorce case had been going on for almost a year when I contacted Mr. Aguilar. At that point my wife had requested a restraining order against me that included our 2 sons. I felt desperate because I knew I could lose my job and professional license if the restraining order was granted. Mr. Aguilar got the restraining order dismissed and also requested changes in the custody and visitation orders because it was clear that my ex wife had been lying during the entire process. Now, I get to see my children regularly, unsupervised and we have moved on with our lives.

    Out of State Litigant - Attorney Aguilar Took Care of It All

    Posted by

    My ex and children live in California. but I live out of state and could not travel to San Diego for the various court hearings. Mr, Aguilar arranged for me to appear over the telephone every time the court needed me to appear. Mr.Aguilar kept me informed about the status of my case and promptly notified me of any developments. I saved a lot of money by not having to travel to California for the various hearings. I truly believe the outcome of my case would have been the same even if I were present for the court hearings. I learned to trust Mr. Aguilar during the divorce/custody process. Mr. Aguilar really made sure that my rights as a parent were preserved despite the fact that I live out of state.

    Above and Beyond.

    Posted by

    I am forever thankful that a friend recommended Ben to me. Ben really took the time t listen to my side of the story. Ben went above and beyond. My ex was making really serious false allegations about my fitness as a father. Ben did not wait to get a mediator's parenting plan recommendation instead he picked up the phone and set up appointments to talk in person with my son's teachers. I was quite impressed that he was so hands on and really did everything he could to present the truth on the day we had our court hearing. Ben was able to show to the judge that my ex was lying because she did not want to deal with co-parenting. If you need an attorney that will listen and will play investigator and will do whatever it takes to show that you are a fit parent, you should definitely give Ben a call.
    See all reviews

    Attorney endorsements

    (46)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    James Sexton, Family Attorney on Oct 30, 2017
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Gary Polston, Family Attorney on Jan 18, 2017
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Mr. Aguilar is a great attorney who takes a personal interest in the cases he handles. It is my privilege to endorse him.

    Amir Soleimanian

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Macyh Nawaey, Immigration Attorney on Feb 22, 2016
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Ben is an extremely intelligent and hard working attorney. He truly cares about each and every client. I highly endorse him.

    Brenda Lopez

    Benjamin is a zealous attorney. He is professional and compassionate.

    Douglas Borthwick, Family Attorney on Apr 1, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Omid Rejali, Immigration Attorney on Mar 6, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Mr. Aguilar is a compassionate attorney that does not settle for anything but the best results for his clients. He is passionate and dedicated to his clients and diligently works to make sure their rights are protected. I endorse Mr. Aguilar.

    Magdalena Chattopadhya, Family Attorney on Nov 1, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Ben is smart, hard-working, and focused on achieving the best results for his clients. I highly recommend him.

    Paul Swiller, Family Attorney on Oct 27, 2014
    Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

    I endorse Mr. Aguilar. He is an effective attorney who is well-respected in the legal community.

    Angelica Sciencio, Family Attorney on Sep 19, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Ben is committed to providing great services to his clients. He is well-liked and respected in our community. I endorse this lawyer.

    Paul Molinaro, Immigration Attorney on Sep 15, 2014
    Relationship: Other

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Esther Hyun, Immigration Attorney on Jul 9, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Mr. Aguilar is knowledgable, hard-working, and a great advocate for his clients. I endorse Mr. Aguilar.

    Michael Waddington, Family Attorney on May 22, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse Benjamin. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community.

    Joseph Willmore, Family Attorney on Feb 14, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Kirra O'Toole, Immigration Attorney on Feb 7, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Kristen Roberts, Immigration Attorney on Dec 24, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Jacob Austin, Family Attorney on Dec 19, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. I have known Ben for a few years now, and I have found him to be a caring, personable, and creative advocate. He has excellent people skills and this translates into good rapport with judges, juries, and opposing counsel. I know that he has a passion for what he does and for his clients.

    James Dicks, Family Attorney on Nov 29, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    This attorney works very hard for the clients and keeps up with the law by attending legal seminars to assist them in this regard. I endorse this attorney.

    Brad Micklin, Administrative law Attorney on Nov 18, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Benjamin Aguilar is an experienced attorney whose participation and comments in Avvo show his commitment to serving clients as well as his level of experience. He is an excellent attorney that I recommend wholeheartedly.

    Daniel Laguna, Family Attorney on Oct 24, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Cost

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      • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs
        30 minutes
      PAYMENT METHODS

      Cash, Check, Credit Card