The Legal Team
Dawn Kirk
Attorney At Law
Founder of Kirk Law Group, A Professional Law Corporation
Professional Development:
Juris Doctor - First in Class
California Southern Law School, Riverside, CA
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, With Honors
University of California, Riverside, CA
Ms. Kirk's strong analytical, logic and reasoning skills, along with over 25 years of experience of owning and operating several small local businesses, have equipped her not only with superior issue-spotting and problem solving capabilities, but the ability to relate to and understand her clients on a "real-life" level. Ms. Kirk recognizes and understands the importance of responding personally, directly and quickly to clients' inquiries and needs, unlike numerous other firms and attorneys. Ms. Kirk is a meticulously organized civil litigation and transactional attorney, focusing on such matters as personal injury liability, elder and dependent abuse, breaches of contract, business litigation, contract review and formation, representing both debtors and creditors in bankruptcy court and assisting clients with their estate planning needs. Ms. Kirk possesses a professional and respectful demeanor which has helped provide her and her clients with a proven history of successful results. Since the inception of Kirk Law Group, Ms. Kirk has helped secure millions of dollars in settlements, awards and judgments for her clients. In 2017, Ms. Kirk achieved the status of Gold Client Champion through Martindale-Hubbell's confidential client review process.
Memberships:
- State Bar of California
- Riverside County Bar Association
Jerry Wayne Howard
Attorney at Law
Professional Development:
Juris Doctor
Southwestern Law School, Los Angeles, CA
Bachelor of Science
California State University, Fresno, CA
Mr. Howard brings over 33 valuable years of experience to Kirk Law Group as a civil litigation attorney, arbitrator, mediator and judge pro team. Mr. Howard has earned the admiration of the legal community, as evidenced by his "Distinguished" peer review rating - no doubt due to his exceptional analytical, forensic and interpersonal skills. Mr. Howard has the keen ability to apply these skills in conjunction with his strong background in insurance defense law to expertly evaluate liability and damages in cases arising from such things as premises liability, construction defect, products liability, auto liability, professional negligence and breach of contract matters. Mr. Howard is also a skilled advocate before courts and juries, clients and opposing counsel alike. Mr. Howard's superior ability to quickly analyze any circumstance for strengths and weaknesses allows him to present effective oral argument before the courts, to conduct productive examination of prospective jurors, witnesses, both casual and expert, and to successfully introduce all types of evidence in support of his clients' position. Mr. Howard is masterful at exercising his respectful, patient, knowledgeable and professional demeanor to obtain optimal results for his clients.
Memberships:
- State Bar of California
Benjamin Cates (Of Counsel)
Attorney At Law
Professional Development:
Juris Doctor
California Southern Law School, Riverside, CA
Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems
University of Redlands, Redlands, CA
From the start of his adult life, Mr. Cates has served and continues to serve his country. He began by proudly serving six years as a U.S. Marine before being honorably discharged as a Sergeant. Mr. Cates now defends the freedom and rights of his clients by representing them in all felony and misdemeanor matters. As a criminal defense attorney, Mr. Cates is extremely well versed in both the California court and DMV hearing system. In addition to advocating for clients in the California Superior Court system, Mr. Cates has argued appellate cases before the California Courts of Appeal and County Appellate Divisions. His efforts before the appellate courts have resulted in favorable changes in case law for all Californians and has specifically changed the method by which the San Bernardino Crime Lab analyzes blood samples. Mr. Cates has been recognized for his efforts by the National Trial Lawyer's Association as a Top 100 Trial Attorney and Top 40 Under 40 Trial Attorney. He has also received accolades from the National League of Renowned Attorneys, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys and was previously named as a Top 100 DUI Attorney from the National Advocacy for DUI Defense. Mr. Cates is a hard working attorney that goes above and beyond for his clients in order to obtain the best results possible. He has not only earned the admiration of his colleagues and the immense gratitude of his clients, but the highly regarded respect of the courts.
Memberships:
- State Bar of California
- Riverside County Bar Association
- San Bernardino County Bar Association
- California DUI Lawyers Association
Kelly Branch
Legal Assistant
Ms. Branch possesses over 17 years of experience in providing legal support to attorneys and clients alike. In addition to acting as a liason between our clients and attorneys, Ms. Branch is a key team member in preparing for court proceedings and trials. Ms. Branch seamlessly keeps the office running smoothly by scheduling and coordinating consultations, meetings and court dates. Should you need any assistance or information, you can be assured that Ms. Branch will be familiar with your matter and ready to help at any time