Practice Areas
Stephen is a highly accomplished litigator with extensive experience handling complex cases across a broad range of practice areas, including mass torts, False Claims Act matters, antitrust, securities and white-collar criminal cases. He has tried dozens of cases before juries in both federal and state courts, achieving first-chair victories in both government and private practice settings. Stephen has also successfully argued significant appeals in federal and state appellate courts, demonstrating his skill at all stages of litigation.
His private practice clients span major industries such as consumer products, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, energy, entertainment and real estate. Stephen has defended companies in class actions and multi-district litigations, with many cases involving allegations of unfair or deceptive marketing practices. His work and insights have been featured in a variety of media outlets, including both general and legal press as well as television.
Following law school, Stephen clerked for Judge William A. Norris on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. He then served as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Central District of California, where he investigated and prosecuted major fraud cases, including savings and loan fraud, securities violations, wire and mail fraud, and money laundering. Stephen also contributed to high-profile public service as counsel to the Christopher Commission, which investigated the Los Angeles Police Department, and as deputy general counsel to the Kolts Commission, which investigated the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.
In addition to his litigation practice, Stephen is a prolific author, having written numerous book chapters and articles on litigation and marketing issues. He is also a regular contributor to the award-winning Drug and Device Law blog, further establishing his thought leadership in the legal community.