EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST A reputation for success is what we carry into the courtroom. Click here to see an example of what we mean by success. Philip Dunn, Mandee Sanderson and Denise Trerotola are criminal defense attorneys with over 45 years of combined experience in winning cases in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties. If you, a loved one or colleague has been arrested, we have the answers to your questions. Knowledge is your first line of defense. Click here to see highlights of our most recent victories.
INTEGRITY AND COMMITMENT Philip Dunn, Mandee Sanderson and Denise Trerotola know that two characteristics more than any others are responsible for the successful defense of a criminal matter: integrity and commitment. The credibility that derives from honest representation and fair dealings with our clients, prosecutors, police officers and judges is the foundation for a successful result in any criminal case. Of equal importance is the commitment to fight the hard case and not back down when you know you are right. Too often criminal defense practitioners look for the easy resolution of a criminal case rather than fighting for the best result. At Dunn & Sanderson, we pledge to tell you the truth about your case and not take advantage of your situation. We are committed to providing quality legal representation at a cost that is both fair and equitable.
TRUTH NOT BRAVADO Both Philip Dunn and Mandee Sanderson have a long history of achievement within the criminal justice system. As a former Deputy District Attorney in Ventura County, Mandee Sanderson was given the Deputy District Attorney of the Year Award by then District Attorney Michael Bradbury. Philip Dunn was presented the Outstanding Trial Attorney Award upon leaving the Public Defender’s Office in Ventura County. Since becoming partners in 1994, they both have continued to enhance the firm’s reputation for legal excellence by vigorously defending their clients. Unlike other firms, Dunn & Sanderson is prepared to provide our clients with specific examples of legal victories achieved in every type of matter we handle. See the accounts of our most recent success stories provide below.
If you, a loved one or colleague has been arrested or are the target of a criminal investigation, we are the attorneys to help you.
If you are Arrested or are the Target of an Investigation
You have the right to an attorney – Use this right!
Anything you say will be used against you – Say Nothing without an attorney!
You have questions right now that need answers – Call for a free consultation!
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE – These are often the most defensible charges, as the charges alleged are often greatly exaggerated, or entirely fabricated. Early investigation and an aggressive defense can often make the difference in these cases.
DUI –A hearing with the DMV must be demanded within ten (10) days of your arrest in order to keep your license. DMV hearings are defensible given the right facts, and a restricted license may be granted after thirty (30) days of suspension in those cases where the suspension is upheld.
DRUGS & NARCOTICS – There is a major difference between a misdemeanor or felony for personal use and a felony possession for sale, sales or transportation. The difference is often a judgment call made by the local prosecutor, which is why you should have vigorous defense by an experienced criminal defense attorney.
FAMILY LAW - As one of the partners in Dependent Child Advocates in Ventura County, Mandee Sanderson has specialized training and qualifications which authorize her to represent children in Family Law and Dependency court. As such, she is regularly appointed by judges of the Ventura County Superior Court to represent children involved in custody matters. Dunn & Sanderson has now taken on Denise Trerotola as an attorney specializing in Family Law matters. Ms. Trerotola is particularly well qualified to handle Family Law cases, as she received the prestigious “Witkin Award” for Academic Excellence in Community Property while attending Ventura College of Law.
FELONY THREE STRIKES - California has the most punitive "Three Strikes" law in the nation. There is no "wash out" period for a prior strike.
Two prior strikes and any new felony charge may make the defendant eligible for a sentence of 25 years to life. Even one prior prior will double the potential sentence on the new felony charge, and make the defendant ineligible for probation, and
require him to serve 80% of any sentence time. The aggressive defense of three stike cases is essential for avoiding
these draconian results.
OFFICE LOCATION – The Law Office of Dunn & Sanderson focuses its practice in criminal defense and is strategically placed in Westlake Village, California. We offer our criminal defense attorney services to clients from both Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Our main office is within minutes of Calabasas, Malibu, Moorpark, Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, and only a 20 minute drive from the San Fernando Valley.
VENTURA COURTHOUSE LOCATION – Clients arrested in Ventura County may also visit our Ventura office located across the street from the Ventura Courthouse and just a quick drive from Camarillo, Oxnard, Santa Paula, Fillmore and Santa Barbara.
ALWAYS PUTTING CLIENTS FIRST – We believe everyone is entitled to the very best legal representation at an affordable price. Our approach to the practice of law is to put the client first by standing up for the client's rights, no matter what the circumstances.
Our attorneys are highly experienced, aggressive and willing to fight for your rights.
Dunn and Sanderson Accounts of SuccessNovember 5, 2009: Woman charged with battery on her husband, a violation of Penal Code section 243(e)(1). Case dismissed by Ventura County District Attorney on last day set for trial after the prosecution continued the matter five (5) times in an attempt to get ready for trial.
October 22, 2009: Defendant company has civil case, alleging claims of nuisance and trespass on land and seeking $1,000,000.00 in damages. Case dismissed on motion by defense for failure to prosecute the action.
September 29, 2009: Young man charged in Los Angeles County Superior Court (Van Nuys) with felon in possesion of a firearm, a violation of Penal Code section 12021(a)(1). District Attorney's plea bargain offer sought a committment to state prison. After preliminary hearing and the filing of the information in Superior Court, the matter was dismissed by the court upon the granting of a Penal Code section 995 motion, finding that there was insufficient evidence in the record for the court to make a finding of a "reasonable suspicion" that the defendant committed the charged offense.
August 14, 2009: Man charged with violating Penal Code section 647(f), misdemeanor public intoxication, which would affect his ability to fly as a pilot with airline if convicted. Case dismissed at arraignment, saving man from loss of pilot's license.
August 10, 2009: Young man with career in government facing loss of that career due to charges of misdemeanor graffiti vandalism, a violation of Penal Code section 594(b)(2)(A). Case resolved by civil compromise, resulting in dismissal of case.
July 31, 2009: Young man charged with violating Penal Code section 273.5(a), inflicting injury on fellow parent, and Penal Code section 273 a(b), cruelty to child by endangering health, both misdemeanors. On date set for trial, case is dismissed by District Attorney pursuant to Penal Code section 1385, case could not be proved beyond a reasonable doubt.
July 16, 2009: Young man caught on videotape taking prescription pain killers from local pharmacy charged with felony theft of prescription drugs. Further investigation reveals no intent to steal. Evidence presented to detective causing matter to be rejected for prosecution.
June 4, 2009: Young man charged with four (4) felony counts alleging counterfeiting, fraud and drug possession charges. At preliminary hearing, all felony counts dismissed in lieu of plea to misdemeanor for no jail time and drug treatment program.
May 5, 2009: Los Angeles County firefighter arrested for DUI facing loss of employment if convicted or license suspended. At DMV admin per se hearing, license suspension set aside. Four (4) day jury trial on Vehicle Code sections 23152(a), driving under the influence, and 23152(b), driving with a .08 or greater blood alcohol level, results in not guilty verdict on DUI charge, and hung jury, eleven (11) to one (1) not guilty on .08 or greater. Count two (2) dismissed on motion of court saving client from loss of career as a firefighter.
April 10, 2009: Client charged with petty theft of lost property, a violation of Penal Code section 485. On day of trial setting, case is dismissed by District Attorney pursuant to Penal Code section 1385, case could not be proved beyond a reasonable doubt.
April 8, 2009: Motion to dismiss remaining felony counts of Vehicle Code section 23109, speed contest causing great bodily injury, granted after jury trial in which client was acquitted of two (2) felony counts of Vehicle Code section 23105, reckless driving causing great bodily injury. During argument on motion to dismiss, counsel for the co-defendant, Harland Braun, commented that in light of the existence of the evidence against Mr. Dunn's client, "...the jury's verdict in this case was a miracle."
April 1, 2009: Man charged with felony identity theft, Penal Code section 530.5, facing a maximum sentence of three (3) years in prison and immigration ramifications if convicted. Felony dismissed on day of preliminary hearing. Case refiled as a misdemeanor. On day of trial, case resolved for no jail, no fine, saving man from possible deportation.
March 18, 2009: Client charged with first degree robbery, a violation of Penal Code section 212.5(a) and Penal Code section 245(a)(1) assault with a deadly weapon with great bodily injury allegation pursuant to Penal Code section 12022.7(a), both of which were potential strike priors and serious felonies under Penal Code section 1192.7. Case dismissed on day of preliminary hearing after our investigation revealed significant self-help evidence.
February 24, 2009: Young man charged with two (2) felony counts of Vehicle Code section 23109, engaging in a speed contest causing great bodily injury, and two (2) felony counts of Vehicle Code section 23105, reckless driving causing great bodily injury. District Attorney's plea bargain offer before trial was plead guilty to all four (4) felony counts, no committment as to sentencing, leaving client exposed to a potential prison sentence of five (5) years. Four (4) week jury trial in Malibu Superior Court results in acquittal on two (2) counts of reckless driving causing great bodily injury, hung jury on engaging in a speed contest causing great bodily injury 9-3 and 10-2 for not guilty; guilty of one (1) count of misdemeanor lesser included reckless driving, a violation of Vehicle Code section 23103, which carries only a maximum possible sentence of ninety (90) days or less.
January 12, 2009: Juvenile charged as an adult pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code section 707(d) with felony violations of Penal Code section 422, criminal threats, and Penal Code section 136.1, use of force or threat of force to dissuade a witness. Case dismissed by the District Attorney on last day set for trial, saving client from two (2) potential strike priors under Penal Code section 1192.7.
January 2, 2009: Young man involved in car accident, left accident scene on foot to go home for help. On way back to scene, stopped and given field sobriety tests. Young man charged with violating Vehicle Code section 23152(a), driving under the influence, and Vehicle Code Section 23152(b), driving with BAC of .08 or higher. DA expert puts BAC at .096 at time of driving. Jury trial results in acquittal on .08 count and hung 7-5 for not guilty on driving under the influence.
November 19, 2008: Commercial truck driver has license suspended by DMV pursuant to Vehicle Code section 13352, for driving under the influence under Vehicle Code section 23152. Other drivers call police regarding erratic driving and when police arrive, truck is stopped in traffic lane with driver found barely conscious behind the wheel. DMV license suspension action set aside and full driving privilege reinstated on date set for hearing.
November 18, 2008: Woman charged with battery on a spouse, Penal Code section 243(e), has case rejected by the District Attorney's Office as interview of alleged victim reveals he initiated the conflict by closing a car door on his wife's knee.
October 24, 2008: Man charged with violation of Penal Code section 273.5(a) as a felony has it reduced to a misdemeanor at the time of filing by the District Attorney. Case set for trial and is dismissed by the District Attorney pursuant to Penal Code section 1385, case could not be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, on the second-to-last day for trial to commence.
October 14, 2008: District Attorney direct files on a 17-year old girl charging her with felony violations of Penal Code sections 422, criminal threats, and 136.1(c)(1), dissuading a witness with the use of force, or threat of force, with both charges being potential "three strike" priors. Case dismissed by District Attorney on last day set for trial.
October 2, 2008: Young woman charged with felony vandalism, a violation of Penal Code section 594(b)(1), and trespass to posted lands, a violation of Penal Code section 602(l)(1). On day set for preliminary hearing, DA dismisses felony charges and refiles as misdemeanor trespass. On day set for trial, court dismissal cases pursuant to Penal Code section 1385.
October 1, 2008: DMV Admin Per Se hearing on a DUI stop and blood test of .08 taken two hours after arrest. Order of suspension set aside and full driving privilege reinstated for a man facing loss of employment in a government job.
September 15, 2008 - Motion pursuant to Penal Code section 17(b) to reduce felony conviction for Penal Code section 417(c) to misdemeanor, and petition to expunge conviction granted after oral argument at court hearing.
September 10, 2008 - Young man cited for passenger in possession of open container, a violation of Vehicle Code section 23223(b). At court trial, officer dismisses for lack of evidence.
September 3, 2008: Woman involved in motor vehicle accident resulting in the death of the driver of the other vehicle. DMV hearing determines woman at fault for the accident, sends notice of potential license revocation, and places woman on probation. Successful appeal results in reversal of the DMV order and full driving privileges reinstated.
September 2, 2008: Ex-husband accused of pushing former spouse to the ground causing multiple injuries, a violation of Penal Code section 243(e)(1), battery on a former spouse. Evidence of prior fabrication of injuries and accusations by the complaining witness submitted to District Attorney results in dismissal of charges at time of trial.
August 11, 2008: Man charged with receiving stolen property, Penal Code section 496, and possession of methamphetamine, Health and Safety Code section 11377(a), with a strike prior pursuant to Penal Code sections 667 and 1170.12. Strike stricken at sentencing, releasing him with credit for time served on probation. Client was facing mandatory prison sentence for prior strike to be served at 80% for as long as seven (7) years, four (4) months.
July 11, 2008: Young woman arrested for Vehicle Code section 23152(a) and (b), misdemeanor DUI, in Westlake Village. Motion to suppress evidence pursuant to Penal Code section 1538.5, illegal search and seizure in violation of the Fourth Amendment, granted, case dismissed.
July 7, 2008: 66-year old man with mild Parkinson's disease had driving privilege revoked by DMV pursuant to Vehicle Code section 13953. Appeal filed petitioning for an opportunity for him to take a new driving test. After successful completion of test, DMV reinstates driving privilege.
June 25, 2008: Husband arrested for felony violation of Penal Code section 273.5, corporal injury on a spouse, and Penal Code section 236 false imprisonment, has case rejected by the District Attorney after alleged victim acknowledges she was responsible for starting the fight in a statement provided to the District Attorney prior to the filing of a criminal complaint.
June 12, 2008: Man accused of violating Penal Code section 243(e), battery on a co-habitant has case dismissed by D.A. at time of trial after a defense investigation revealed the alleged victim has made similar false allegations in the past.
June 2, 2008: V.C. 23153(a) and (b) felony charge of DUI causing injury with high blood alcohol enhancement for .25%. Accident occurred when driver went over raised median causing head-on collision. Motion pursuant to Penal Code 17(b) granted, matter declared a misdemeanor, saving the client the loss of a state license because of a felony conviction.
April 15, 2008: Professional driver in danger of losing tenured career and pension with a blood result of .10 is acquitted by a jury of DUI, a violation of Vehicle Code section 23152(a) and (b), in less than forty (40) minutes. Successful hearing with DMV results in the return of driver's license with no suspension with a finding of not .08 at time of driving.
April 2, 2008: After being pulled over for driving over 75 mph female client was found to have a BAC of .08% and arrested for a violation of Vehicle Code section 23152(a) and (b). Case dismissed by district attorney on the last day set for trial.
March 27, 2008: Driver's license returned to client in full: The DMV suspended a client's license when he was found passed out at the wheel. Our Attorneys arranged a series of medical exams and produced information at the DMV hearing proving our client was safe to drive.
March 21, 2008: Felony charge of corporal injury on a co-habitant, Penal Code section 273.5, rejected by the district attorney after new evidence presented by our office prior to arraignment.
March 12, 2008: License returned to client after successful administrative per se hearing with the DMV.
January 11, 2008: Charges of Criminal/Terrorist threats dismissed on eve of trial out of Van Nuys Superior Court.
December 20, 2007: Felony charges of Battery, Penal Code section 242, and False Imprisonment. Penal Code section 236, dropped and client discharged after preliminary hearing.
December 7, 2007: Successfully appealed a permanent license suspension imposed by the DMV and an unrestricted license was returned to client after passing written and driving tests.
November 9, 2007: After a new law was imposed causing client to be listed on the Megan's Law website for a 20 year old conviction, our office successfully appealed the Department of Justice's decision and had the client's name and personal information removed from the website.
November 7, 2007: Charges of Insurance Fraud, Penal Code section 550, are dismissed at Preliminary Hearing after a full day of testimony. Client is exonerated of all charges.
November 1, 2007: Charges dropped against man arrested for domestic violence and corporal injury to a spouse, Penal Code section 273.5.
September 20, 2007: License returned to client charged with DUI, Penal Code section 23152 (a) and (b), after successful administrative per se hearing with the DMV.
August 24, 2007: DUI charges, Penal Code section 23152(a) and (b) dismissed on date of trial.
August 20, 2007: Charges of Attempted Murder, Penal Code sections 664/187, against two brothers are dropped with the case dismissed against one and leaving the other brother with misdemeanor charges and credit for time served. see entire news story.
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DUI Ventura Criminal Defense Attorney Philip Dunn is one of the co-founders of the law firm Dunn and Sanderson in Westlake Village, California. Drugs and Narcotics expert Mandee Sanderson the other co-founder of the Ventura criminal attorney law firm with a law office across the street of the courthouse in Ventura County for the Ventura County Criminal Defense Attorney team helping clients with domestic violence and bail hearings in Los Angeles County, Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills, Moorpark, Conejo Valley, Sherman Oaks and Woodland Hills. Three strikes cases and expungements require an experienced Ventura criminal lawyer, especially representing clients from Encino, Oxnard, Malibu and Simi Valley. To know that you are represented by a Ventura County Criminal Attorney when you are charged with assault and battery or a theft offense like Grand Theft Auto will give you peace of mind to know that when your bail hearing is up you are represented by an experienced attorney, a licensed member of the California Bar Association in the great State of California.
Update, June 11, 2008 from the law office: Remember that on July 1, 2008 the new California wireless law takes effect. The Department of Motor Vehicles office from Sacramento, California has put on their website that the new law prohibits automobile drivers from using handheld wireless telephones while they are operating (driving) a motor vehicle (automobile/car). However, the California law will permit a California (Ventura County) driver to use a cell phone to make an emergency phone call to the highway patrol, ambulance, fire department and other emergency people providing emergency services.
Calabasas criminal defense attorney has found from its experience that today’s federal grand jury is a rubber stamp for the prosecutor which leads many defense attorneys to agree with the statement made many years ago that "a good prosecutor could get a grand jury to indict a ham sandwich." House of Representative Congressman Henry Hyde, formerly Chairman of the Congressional House Judiciary Committee, noted that the federal grand jury, originally established by the United States Founding Fathers as a means of protecting American citizens against government excess, is today a captive of federal prosecutors. Calabasas criminal defense attorneys believe that the prosecutor today exercises enormous power, unrestrained by law or judicial supervision, with even the grand jury process itself being largely devoid of legal rules. Calabasas criminal defense attorney implores the accused to understand that without experienced and aggressive legal representation the federal grand jury process has become one that wholly fails to protect ordinary American citizens.
Newbury Park criminal defense attorney is informing the public today, September 23, 2009 that this past Monday the military commissions judge at Guantanamo Bay granted a motion to halt all proceedings in the case against five alleged 9/11 conspirators until the current presidential administration headed by President Obama decides whether it will transfer the cases to the United States Federal Court. Newbury Park criminal defense attorney reports that the Obama administration says it will make its decision as to which court will have jurisdiction by November 16, 2009. The defendants, three of whom represent themselves, chose not to attend the Monday Commission judicial session; the two represented Guantanamo defendants were told that neither they nor their counsel were allowed to be in the Guantanamo court, although counsel for Ramzi bin al Shibh chose to attend the session nonetheless, it was reported by the Newbury Park criminal defense attorney.
