Steve C. Vondran

PRO

Steve C. Vondran

also known as Attorney Steve®

5.0
124 reviews
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
Rating: 9.6

Licensed for 21 years

Copyright infringement Lawyer at San Francisco, CA
Practice Areas: Copyright Infringement, Entertainment, Copyright Application

One Sansome, Suite 3500, San Francisco, CA

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Steve

Biography

Over 48k YouTube subscribers - Copyright infringement, Software Audit Defense, BitTorrent Litigation (Strike 3 Holdings, LLC), Photo Infringement, Fair Use Opinions, DMCA, Right of Publicity, IPTV, Celebrity Endorsement, Metaverse, NFT, Domain Disputes (UDRP), and Boxing Piracy.

We are a leading Software, Technology & Copyright Infringement law firm in the United States. Business Software Alliance and Microsoft SPLA audits, Autodesk, Siemens, Vero software, Solidworks, Adobe and other publisher EULA audits and piracy defense. Social media disputes-Facebook, Twitter.

We handle copyright law involving books, music, podcasts, film, software, computer fonts, jewelry, designs, Youtube videos, and more. DMCA takedown and bad faith claims. Entertainment contract review and counsel. Entertainment arbitration, mediation and litigation.

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Copyright Infringement 80%

Copyright audits and disputes involving software cases with BSA, Microsoft, Adobe, Autodesk, Vero, CNC, VB Conversions. Torrent movie downloads (Strike 3 and Malibu Media), DMCA takedowns, photo infringement, fonts, jewelry.

22 years | 1,500 cases

80%
Copyright Application 10%

10%
Entertainment 10%

Copyright fair use opinions, clearance for podcasters and Youtube, California right of publicity law, entertainment law issues including contract drafting, negotiation & review, celebrity endorsement, internet law disputes.

22 years | 100 cases

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 10 minutes

Hourly Rates

$ 325-495 per hour


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Licenses

Licensed in Arizona for 18 years

State: Arizona

Acquired: 2008

Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in California for 21 years

State: California

Acquired: 2004

Active

No misconduct found

Location

The Law Offices of Steven C. Vondran, P.C.

One Sansome, Suite 3500, San Francisco, CA, 94104

vondranlegal.com

The Law Offices of Steven C. Vondran, P.C

620 Newport Center Drive, Suite 1100, Newport Beach, CA, 92660

vondranlegal.com

The Law Offices of Steven C. Vondran, P.C.

401 Wilshire Blvd, 12th Floor, Santa Monica, CA, 90401

vondranlegal.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Steve online.

Steve C. Vondran's Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 27 reviews | Communication Style

Posted by Michelle | February 19, 2026 | Hired Attorney | Intellectual Property

Thankful I called

The team was amazing! I had a difficult situation with IP infringement dealing with Etsy. I called several people and tried several ways to solve the issue. I was devastated. From the moment the woman answered the office phone I was treated seriously and treated with kindness. Immmediately they sche...duled a call with the best attorney Marine Grosclaude. Steve was on the call I think? I mostly dealt with Marine. She was clear and prompt and did exactly what she said she would do. I grew impatient a couple of times and she calmed me down and reassured me that it was a process. I trusted her and it worked the complaint was dropped, Etsy reinstated my shop and I am grateful. Never once did I feel like my business was not important to her and the flat rate was also helpful. Sometimes dealing with attorneys can be overwhelming and expensive. The transparancy was refreshing. No promises as they are only advocates for you and cannot make decsions for companies. I will say they did everything they said they would do. I know that if I have any issues in the fture I will call them! Thank you for caring about small business's and taking us seriously. Michelle

Posted by anonymous | December 23, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Copyright Infringement

Lawsuit Help

Vondran Legal Group did an amazing job in helping me settle my case against I had for copyright infringement. When I contacted them about my case, Lisa came to my rescue and talked me through everything and gave me plenty of information about what I needed to do and how they would be handling my case.... Lisa's details certainly gave me peace of mind, and I knew that I was in good hands. I highly recommend Vondran Legal to anyone hit with a lawsuit!

Steve Vondran

Replied last December 24, 2023

Thank you for taking time to provide a review, we greatly appreciate it and having had you as a client. Yes, Lisa is quite amazing. She understands the process and details of our various legal services and she is a great point person for customer service issues. As a team, we care about your legal problems and do everything possible to cost-effectively resolve your legal problems and to be as responsive as possible. We wish you all the best in 2024. Attorney Steve!

Posted by anonymous | August 18, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Copyright Infringement

Great representation

I received a letter from my ISP that Strike 3 Holdings had issued a subpoena to hand over to them my identity and address. This is my first and only time dealing with any legal issues so it was pretty unnerving at first. After some initial research, I retained Steve and his team's representation. Lis...a kept me up to date with any developments and communications and was quick to respond to any questions I had. In a couple of weeks, Steve and team settled the case while saving me a couple of thousand dollars on the final settlement. Steve and Lisa definitely provided me with some peace of mind, I cannot thank them enough.

Steve Vondran

Replied last August 19, 2022

Thank you for taking the time to comment on your experience with Vondran Legal®. We know our clients have several options to choose from when deciding to choose a BitTorrent Defense Lawyer. We sincerely appreciate you putting your trust in us. We have settled MILLIONS OF DOLLARS of Strike 3 Holdings copyright infringement cases. In every case, we like to minimize the damages and take the stress off your shoulders and carry it on ours. It's what we do every day. We treat our clients as if they are part of our family, and in fact, they are. All the best, Steve!

Posted by anonymous | June 11, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

My first lawyer

I received an email from a compliance team member and tried to understand what did I do wrong, but the compliance person just thanked me for confirmation of usage and demanded that I pay a huge sum in order to get back in compliance. I got Steve to intervene at this point, sadly my phone was blocked... for international calls so we communicated via email only, but he re-assured me that I'm okay. Haven't heard from them since, and if they contact me again, I know who to send them to.

Steve Vondran

Replied last July 07, 2022

I appreciate you taking the time to share your story. Yes, when it comes to software audits, we deal with the main players day in and day out. We have built solid working relationships that allow us to get your case settled without a lengthy period (where most law firms are billing their time and potentially dragging the case on). We cut to the chase and get these companies off your back with the minimal amount of damages. Thank you for putting your trust in us!! Steve

Posted by anonymous | June 06, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Copyright Infringement

Thank you!

I received a notice from my ISP that Strike 3 LLC tried to obtain my information. Steve team addressed all my concerns and explained how he would proceed in the first call. In the end, he was able to obtain a favorable outcome and I am very happy with the result. Steve give me a realistic outlook on ...my case and provided me with information concerning my case. He told me that each case is differently and wasn't able to confirm what a settlement amount would be. He advised me of a goal that he was looking at for a settlement range but it wasn't guarantee since each case is different. In the end Steve and his team was able to help me to resolved my case with a favorable amount. I highly recommend Steve and his team if you are in the same situation. The team provided me with relevant information and gave a realistic look on the outcome. They were able to resolved my case under two weeks and got everything settled for me. I was able to reach Steve and his team when I had any legal question concerning my case and they keep me aware of the progress of my case.

Steve Vondran

Replied last June 10, 2022

Hi, I appreciate greatly this very nice comment that sums up pretty nicely what we do. We understand your concerns and want to make sure our clients are educated about the process and understand what is going on (especially since most are new to copyright law and litigation). Our goal with our clients is to take the pressure and stress off their backs and take them onto ours. This is what we do and we absolutely LOVE helping our clients get a fair deal that won't send them to the poor house. We sincerely appreciate you putting your trust in Vondran Legal® and wish you all the best in the future!! Steve Vondran

See All Client Reviews

Steve C. Vondran's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Steve
Douglas Brent Vanderpool headshot
Douglas Vanderpool

Litigation lawyer | Oct 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Steve is one of the best. Brilliant legal mind, but can bare nuckle with the best of them. He is also a truly great guy and someone you would love to call a friend. Trustworthy."

Nicholas Anthony Buscemi headshot
Nicholas Buscemi

Copyright infringement lawyer | Dec 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Steve is one of the leading attorneys in the field of copy write and consumer protection. He is as up to date on the newest changes in this exciting area of law, as anyone. Take a moment to watch his videos and articles he writes and you'll soon realize, if you need representation - Steve is the one to call!"

Jeana R Morrissey headshot
Jeana Morrissey

Unknown lawyer | Aug 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Steve for many years as a fellow lawyer and have referred several matters to him. Steve is an extremely knowledgeable and capable attorney, but a couple of attributes stand out: (1) he truly cares about his clients and goes the extra mile to assist them, and (2) he is very responsive, which is a feat in and of itself given his busy caseload. One of the first matters I referred to Steve stands out in my mind. This client had an urgent matter with only a couple of days to obtain some sort of resolution. Steve jumped in to help and worked with her outside of his normal working hours to ensure that she received the assistance she needed. Steve is personable, responsive and skilled, and he goes the extra mile for his clients. I highly recommend him."

Michael Charles Doland headshot
Michael Doland

Intellectual property lawyer | Apr 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"One of the many excellent answers of Mr. Vondran particularly caught my attention. It was customized to the needs of the Avvo asker, while bringing a depth of analysis that was of value even to lawyers practicing in the field. These are the qualities that every client should look for when hiring an attorney."

Boris Kayhan headshot
Boris Kayhan

Foreclosure lawyer | Apr 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Vondran is the real deal. He is type of attorney we all strive to be like. He knows his stuff and gives back so much to the community by way of videos and publications."

Kellen William Bradley headshot
Kellen Bradley

Litigation lawyer | Mar 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Steve is the kind of Attorney who puts his clients first always and his track record shows that he achieves great results. As a fellow Attorney here in Arizona, I endorse Steve's experience, skills and compassion without hesitation. I highly recommend and endorse this lawyer."

Alfred Bradley Randall headshot
Alfred Randall

Real estate lawyer | Jan 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Steve genuinely cares about his clients. I've seen him take what looks like an impossible case and make a real difference for his client. I would recommend Steve without hesitation!"

Paul J. Molinaro headshot
Paul Molinaro

Real estate lawyer | Sep 15

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Felice F Guerrieri headshot
Felice Guerrieri

Unknown lawyer | Aug 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Daryl Brian Thompson headshot
Daryl Thompson

Real estate lawyer | Jan 06

Relationship: Friend

"Steve Vondran is an outstanding Real Estate and Intellectual Property Attorney. He is licensed to practice law in California and Arizona and comes high recommended by me. I would refer my clients to no one other than Steve."

Armen Garabedian headshot
Armen Garabedian

Real estate lawyer | Dec 07

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I had the opportunity to work with Steve on a rather complex unlawful detainer proceeding. Steve handled himself with the utmost professionalism and always with the client's best interest in mind. Based on this experience, I endorse Steve."

Carl A Guerrieri headshot
Carl Guerrieri

Real estate lawyer | Jun 25

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Steve’s professionalism and his commitment to his clients has always impressed me. He constantly thinks outside the box to reach the best results for his clients. I truly valued the time we spent working together."

Moises Aguilar headshot
Moises Aguilar

Real estate lawyer | Jun 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Steve is a leader in the real estate law community, particularly in foreclosure defense matters. I have referred MANY clients to Steve and Steve has been able to resolve their matters to the clients' satisfaction. When friends or family come to me for real estate advice, Steve is the first person I turn to."

Brian Patrick Kinder headshot
Brian Kinder

Real estate lawyer | May 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Having worked with Steve Vondran since we were both in law school, I can honestly say that you will not find a more professional, knowledgeable or ethical real estate attorney. For clients seeking a real estate attorney, you cannot go wrong with Steve Vondran. For attorneys with clients in need of assistance on real estate matters, Steve Vondran will make you look like a star for referring him. Great guy and great lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Jeana R Morrissey headshot
Jeana Morrissey

Contracts and agreements lawyer

Kellen William Bradley headshot
Kellen Bradley

Personal injury lawyer

Ingrid Marie Causey headshot
Ingrid Causey

Litigation lawyer

Robyn Lynnette Pool headshot
Robyn Pool

Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer

Daryl Brian Thompson headshot
Daryl Thompson

Criminal defense lawyer

Armen Garabedian headshot
Armen Garabedian

Business lawyer

Carl A Guerrieri headshot
Carl Guerrieri

Insurance lawyer

Moises Aguilar headshot
Moises Aguilar

Criminal defense lawyer

Brian Patrick Kinder headshot
Brian Kinder

Intellectual property lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.6 (Superb)

Honors

2025

America's Most Honored Lawyers, America's Most Honored

2023

Top-Rated Lawyer, Avvo

2021

#1 Copyright Infringement Defense Firm in the U.S. 2020, UniCourt

2019

Top 25 Law Firm by Case Filing, Lex Machina

2000

Top Grade Entertainment Law, CALI award for Excellence in Legal Study

1999

Contracts - Top Grade in Law School Contracts Class, American Jurisprudence Award

1987

American Jurisprudence Award in Torts, Law School

Work Experience

2004 - Present

Attorney, The Law Offices of Steven C. Vondran, P.C.

2017 - 2017

CEO and Founder, Copyright Policy Institute

1999 - 2000

Information Privacy Expert, Experian

1998 - 1999

Project Manager for ASP software company, Equative.com

Associations

2017 - Present

Copyright Policy Institute

CEO & Founder

2016 - Present

Copyright Society of the USA

Member

2016 - Present

San Francisco Intellectual Property Law Association

Member

2014 - Present

American Intellectual Property Law Association

Member

2012 - Present

International Trademark Association

Member

2012 - Present

American Bar Association

Sports & Entertainment Forum

2012 - Present

American Bar Association

Intellectual Property Law Section

2012 - Present

Beverly Hills Bar Association, Entertainment Law Section

Member

2007 - Present

Orange County Trial Lawyers Association

Member

2013 - 2014

Executive counsel - Intellectual Property Arizona State Bar

Executive counsel

Sample of Legal Cases

California Trade Secret Defense - TAKE NOTHING PLAINTIFF

Defense victory

Settled Strike 3 Lawsuit in California Federal Court

Settled

Vero software settlement

Out-of-court settlement

Autodesk Software Audit

Case settled with no liability

Siemens Litigation

Case settled with creative settlement solution

London Has Fallen Illegal Movie Download

Settled case on favorable terms

Malibu Media adult movie

Confidential settlement

DMCA Agent

Ongoing

BitTorrent Defense

Settled

Software audit defense

Case settled no liability

Broker defense and accusations

Many cases are subject to confidentiality agreements

BitTorrent Defense

Settlement

BSA Audit

Settled case for 90% less then original offer.

Right of Publicity

Settlement

Right of Publicity

Settlement

Commission Dispute

Settled

Cancellation of Trademark TTAB

Pending

Real Estate Broker Defense

Settlements

Real Estate Fraud case

Judgment of 1.6 million dollars.

Internet website terms of use

Website is up and running

CFL License

License obtained

Eminent Domain

Settlement

Handled Elder Abuse case

Large Judgment for our Client

Strike 3 Holdings lawsuit DISMISSED

Case dismissed with prejudice

Settled Autodesk audit with just a certificate of compliance

Case closed with no further legal action

See More Legal Cases

Education

2000

Whittier College School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1994

California State University, Fullerton

BS - Bachelor of Science

1989

California State University, Fresno

Units toward BS

Speaking Engagements

2021

Queens Podcast Lab IP law for content creators

2018

Live Online Lecture Copyright Class DMCA Copyright Law Overview

2010

Publications

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
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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