Heather Uttecht Guerena

I advise and represent companies and individuals in appeals and civil litigation.  My ability to provide strategic decision-making advice and analysis prior to or at the outset of litigation has resulted in favorable and cost-effective outcomes for my clients.

I have broad appellate experience in both state and federal courts in a variety of matters, including appeals, writs, petitions for review, merits briefing and amicus curiae briefing.  I have filed dozens of appellate cases through California and in the 9th Circuit.  I also bring the unique perspective of how appellate court's review and analyze matters due to my experience as a judicial external for the Honorable Judith Haller of the California Court of Appeal, Fourth District, Division One.

I also have extensive civil litigation experience in state and federal courts, arbitration, and mediations.  I have acquired substantial knowledge on a wide variety of legal topics, including franchise disputes, trademark, trade dress, copyright and patent infringement, land use, animal welfare laws and regulations, unfair competition and consumer legal remedies, fraud, banking, contract disputes, contractual indemnity, and other complex litigation issues.  I have experience with both bench and jury trials, including a contract dispute that resulted in a multimillion dollar verdict in favor of my client.  I have significant experience with traditional and administrative mandamus proceedings, injunctive relief (temporary restraining orders, as well as preliminary and permanent injunctions), prejudgment writs of attachment, and post-judgment writs of execution.  

Another portion of my practice involves negotiating with a variety of California and federal agencies, including the California Attorney General's Office; Department of Business Oversight; Bureau of Gambling Control; Gambling Control Commission; Department of Fair Employment and Housing; and Coastal Commission; the United States Department of Justice; the Securities and Exchane Commission; FINRA; and various city governments.  These matters dealt with consumer protection laws, securities violations, gaming licensing and compliance, the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, and the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.

My knowledge of commercial law makes me a versatile appellate advocate, effective litigator, and savvy business counselor.