Lori Bessler has over two decades of experience as a practicing attorney. With a straightforward, hands-on approach, Ms. Bessler offers practical advice with the intent to achieve the most advantageous result possible for her clients. Negotiating contracts with an eye for avoiding litigation, she is also well versed with the litigation process and has built a reputation as a formidable opponent. With attention to detail and the ability to see the big picture, Ms. Bessler counsels her clients and keeps them informed each step of the way. Regarded as a detailed, diligent, and strong advocate by her peers, Ms. Bessler understands she is the voice of her clients. Providing hands-on, personal service, Ms. Bessler tailors individualized strategies to meet the unique needs of her clients.
EDUCATION
Loyola Law School, J.D.
Oxford University, Magdalen College, summer abroad
California State University Northridge, B.A., Philosophy
MEMBERSHIPS
State Bar of California
San Diego County Bar Association
Member, Wellness Subcommittee of Programs and Education, SDCBA
RECOGNITION AND VOLUNTEER WORK
- AV Rated Preeminent Attorney, highest rating, Martindale Hubble
- San Diego Top Attorney, San Diego Magazine
- Best of the Bar, San Diego Business Journal
- St Thomas More Law Honor Society
- Certified Gentle and Restorative Yoga Instructor
- Saving Horses, Inc.
- Sean O’Shea Foundation
- PAWS, San Diego
REPRESENTATIVE LITIGATION ENGAGEMENTS
• Representation of commercial high-rise property owner in dispute with contractors and manufacturer for painting defects and fraud. Obtained seven figure settlement for client.
• Representation of 1000+ lot community association in dispute with neighboring golf course. After four week trial, obtained directed defense verdict on all golf course owner’s claims, including lost profits; and prevailed on all of client’s counter-claims, with award of attorneys’ fees.
• Representation of homeowners association in dispute with contractors concerning defective waterproofing. Obtained seven figure settlement for client.
• Representation of property owner in Barbershop tract of La Jolla in dispute with neighboring owner over maintenance, repairs and cost-sharing agreement. Obtained binding arbitration award in favor of client, with recovery of attorneys’ fees.
• Representation of HOA members in dispute with HOA regarding views and common area maintenance. Achieved view protection and agreed upon maintenance schedule without litigation.
• Representation of community association in dispute with homeowners over alleged unapproved improvements and construction. Obtained binding arbitration award in favor of clients including award of attorneys’ fees.
• Representation of developer of mixed-use urban project in dispute with general contractor over improper construction, delay and change orders. Obtained successful settlement through mediation.
• Representation of developer of multi-unit residential project in dispute with general contractor concerning delays and unapproved change orders. Obtained successful settlement.
• Representation of earth work and grading contractor in breach of contract, negligence and breach of warranty litigation. Favorable settlement in mediation.
• Representation of homeowners in dispute with neighbors concerning fence encroachment, trespass and nuisance. Abated the nuisance and achieved favorable settlement without litigation.
• Representation of HOA member in dispute with homeowners association concerning interference with sale and breaches of fiduciary duties. Resolved in client’s favor without litigation.
• Representation of owner of waterfront condominium in dispute with neighbors and homeowners association concerning hard surface flooring. Achieved favorable settlement through mediation.
• Representation of commercial retail property owner in dispute with contractors, negotiated settlement and removal of liens.
• Representation of general contractor in breach of contract, surety, negligence and mechanics lien cases.
• Representation of HOA members in dispute with HOA concerning violations of the Open Meeting Act.
• Representation of architect in case involving alleged non-disclosure, breach of contract and unfair competition. Resolved without litigation.
• Representation of owner of multi-million dollar residential property in dispute arising from pre-purchase inspections. Obtained successful ruling on one-week bench trial.
• Representation of converted condominium association against developer for defects. Obtained favorable settlement without filing a complaint.
• Representation of individual against partner in dispute over real estate deal gone bad. Obtained favorable settlement for client.
• Representation of business owner against former employee for fraud, breach of contract, interference with contract. Obtained favorable settlement for client.
• Representation of lender in breach of promissory note case. Obtained favorable settlement for client.
• Representation of homeowner in dispute with contractor concerning defective workmanship and breach of construction contract. Obtained favorable settlement.
• Representation of commercial property owner in dispute with seller over real estate purchase agreement. Obtained favorable settlement for client without litigation.
• Representation of tenants in mold infested property. Favorably settled lawsuit before substantial fees were generated.
• Appeal and negotiation of Cal/OSHA serious citation on behalf of earthwork contractor. Successfully obtained reclassification of citation.
REPRESENTATIVE TRANSACTIONAL ENGAGEMENTS
• Negotiation and drafting of construction contracts
• Negotiation and drafting of real estate documents
• Negotiation and drafting of partnership agreements
• Drafting contracts, policies and procedures for small businesses
• Negotiation and drafting of settlement and release agreements
• Drafting of limitations of liability and waivers
• Drafting of CC&R amendments, Rules & Regulations, Policies and Procedures
• Negotiation and drafting of license and indemnity agreements
• Negotiation and drafting of easements
• Negotiation and drafting of commercial leases
• Negotiation and drafting of residential leases
• Commercial purchase agreements, including purchases of existing businesses