Salisbury, Lee & Tsuda, LLP

Nearby LawyersCaliforniaLos Angeles CountyPasadenaSouth Lake Avenue

Open Hours:

Monday, 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday, 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday, 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday, 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday, Closed
Sunday, Closed

Salisbury, Lee & Tsuda, LLP Introduce

Salisbury, Lee & Tsuda, LLP is a law firm located at 70 S Lake Ave #600, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA, placing it within the "Nearby Lawyers" category for individuals seeking legal assistance in the area. The firm can be contacted at (626) 449-4812 or via mobile at +1 626-449-4812. While the firm offers legal services, it's important for prospective clients to consider the full spectrum of feedback available from past clients to make an informed decision.

One detailed review paints a concerning picture of the services provided by one of the partners, Lee Salisbury, in a specific case involving discovery and a Request for Order (RFO). According to this account, the client hired Lee Salisbury with a pressing timeline, specifically seeking the filing of an RFO to compel further responses, continue deposition, and request sanctions. The client states that Mr. Salisbury agreed to these actions prior to being retained and paid. However, the review alleges that following the signing of the retainer and payment, Mr. Salisbury became unresponsive to calls and written communication, effectively being "nowhere to be found" when a crucial RFO hearing approached.

The client further reports that Mr. Salisbury reappeared shortly before a bifurcation hearing but was allegedly unprepared, leading to an unfavorable outcome on the motion. The review also raises a serious concern about a potential conflict of interest, suggesting that Mr. Salisbury prioritized the interests of a referring Certified Public Accountant (CPA) over his own client. The client claims that Mr. Salisbury spent more time defending the CPA, who had purportedly failed in preparing Moore Marsden calculations and premarital property tracing, implying a divided loyalty. This is a significant issue, as attorneys have fundamental fiduciary duties to act in their clients' best interests.

Adding to the gravity of the situation, the reviewing client alleges that despite the perceived neglect of the case and the unfavorable hearing outcome, Mr. Salisbury declared the retainer depleted and demanded replenishment, having allegedly billed approximately $9000 for what the client describes as "nothing." The client also points out an alleged failure on Mr. Salisbury's part to file reply papers in response to the opposition's filings. The reviewer expresses dismay that an attorney in a leadership position within the local bar association could allegedly conduct themselves in such a manner, raising questions about the standards and expectations within the local legal community.

This particular review concludes with the client indicating that a complaint has been filed with the state bar and that they intend to pursue justice through both the bar and potential court action. The mention of "alarming corruption matters with the state bar" in the review, while anecdotal, suggests a broader concern about attorney conduct and accountability within the legal profession.

In contrast to the negative experience described above, another review offers a positive perspective on working with Serine, another member of the firm. This client found Serine to be "great to work with in person, over the phone and via email." The review highlights Serine's effectiveness as a mediator, particularly in navigating a challenging mediation involving difficult personalities. The client appreciated Serine's ability to keep the agreement progressing and maintain forward momentum despite the obstacles. Furthermore, the reviewer specifically commended Serine's thoughtful approach to managing potential conflict by keeping the parties in separate rooms and ensuring a safe departure for the client.

This positive feedback suggests that while one client experienced significant issues with Mr. Salisbury, another had a positive and productive experience with Ms. Tsuda (referred to as Serine in the review). This highlights the importance of considering that experiences with different attorneys within the same firm can vary considerably. Potential clients should inquire about the specific attorney who would be handling their case and seek information relevant to that individual's track record and areas of expertise.

Given the starkly contrasting reviews, it is challenging to provide a definitive assessment of the overall environment and typical service quality at Salisbury, Lee & Tsuda, LLP. The negative review raises serious concerns about communication, preparedness, potential conflicts of interest, and billing practices in at least one instance. This account suggests a lack of diligence and a potential breach of fiduciary duty. Conversely, the positive review of Serine Tsuda indicates professionalism, effective mediation skills, and a client-focused approach, particularly in sensitive situations.

Features of the firm, based on these limited reviews, appear to be diverse depending on the attorney. Lee Salisbury was initially perceived as agreeable and willing to take necessary actions, but the subsequent experience described suggests a failure to follow through and maintain communication. Serine Tsuda, on the other hand, demonstrates strong communication skills, effective mediation techniques, and a focus on client well-being and safety during potentially contentious proceedings.

There is no promotional information available in the provided text. Therefore, local users considering Salisbury, Lee & Tsuda, LLP should weigh the available feedback carefully. The significant negative experience detailed by one client should not be dismissed, prompting potential clients to ask thorough questions about the attorney assigned to their case, their communication style, their experience in similar matters, and the firm's billing practices. Conversely, the positive experience with Serine Tsuda suggests that the firm may have competent and client-focused professionals within its ranks, particularly in areas like mediation.

In conclusion, Salisbury, Lee & Tsuda, LLP is a Pasadena law firm with at least two attorneys, Lee Salisbury and Serine Tsuda. Client experiences appear to vary significantly. One client reported serious issues with Lee Salisbury, including alleged neglect of the case, lack of communication, unpreparedness for court, potential conflict of interest, and questionable billing practices. Another client had a positive experience with Serine Tsuda, highlighting her effectiveness as a mediator and her considerate approach to client safety. Local users considering this firm should conduct thorough due diligence, inquire specifically about the attorney who will handle their case, and consider both the positive and negative feedback available to make a well-informed decision.

Location

Customer Reviews

(8 reviews)

S
S EP
Oct 18, 2024

In my case I had very little time left before discovery was cut off. Time was ticking. So prior to hiring Lee Salisbury I have asked him if he will file an RFO to compel further responses, continue deposition, and ask for sanctions for failure to comply with the prior orders. Lee agreed. He said “yes, I will “ . However, right after signing the retainer and paying he went into hiding. I Called and called with no response . I wrote and got no response . He was nowhere to be found. I had a very important RFO hearing. Time was running out and he was nowhere to be found . Then he reappeared a late afternoon prior to the bifurcation hearing. Next day he was totally unprepared and motion was lost. Moreover he spent more time defending the CPA who had failed to prepare Moore Marsden and on premarital property tracing. You may guess that The CPA is the one who has Recommended him , so his primary allegiance was to this non performing CPA v to his client . Lee, who was leading the local bar association, had the audacity to neglect my case to the extent of deceiving me with false promises. Yet he declared that retainer already was depleted and demanded replenishment . Lee billed me and received approximately $9000 for nothing. Talk about fiduciary duties owed to the client. By the way when the opposition filed a response he failed to file reply papers. This is the attorney who is leading a local bar. What do you expect from those attorneys who were led by him at local bar association ? According to recently published alarming corruption matters with the state bar, one can see how attorneys can conduct themselves in such manner . Total utter impunity. My complaint to state bar just picked up and I will get justice whether with state bar or with the court action.

L
Lauren Halatek
Aug 11, 2017

Serine was great to work with in person, over the phone and via email. Our mediation was not easy because of personality involved, but she was able to keep the agreement developing and us moving forward. I really appreciate that she allowed us to stay in different rooms and warned me to stay a little longer to allow my ex who was heated to leave to avoid confrontation after a session.

L
Lauren Halatek
Aug 11, 2017

Serine was great to work with in person, over the phone and via email. Our mediation was not easy because of personality involved, but she was able to keep the agreement developing and us moving forward. I really appreciate that she allowed us to stay in different rooms and warned me to stay a little longer to allow my ex who was heated to leave to avoid confrontation after a session.

K
Kasorl Dith
Aug 10, 2019

I had a case that required knowledge of out of state laws and jurisdiction. I found myself in need of an attorney because I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I reached out to Serine thru a family referral and that was the best decision I could have ever made. Serine and her team were on my side from day one. I was very intimidated, nervous, and extremely scared of the whole court process. Knowing I had Serine in my corner made an almost unbearable and stressful situation seem manageable. I never doubted Serine’s ability to achieve the best possible outcome for me. Serine goes above and beyond expectations. I felt very comfortable sharing the most private details with her because she was easy to talk to and extremely comforting. Serine is professional, compassionate, and very knowledgeable. Serine and her staff were always available to answer any of my questions and concerns. Serine went out of her way to ensure I knew everything about my case and what I was getting myself into. I am very fortunate to have her on my side. If you need a family law attorney and you want the BEST, then call Serine A. Tsuda. Serine has completely exceeded my expectations and I will forever be grateful for what she has done for me.

K
Kasorl Dith
Aug 10, 2019

I had a case that required knowledge of out of state laws and jurisdiction. I found myself in need of an attorney because I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I reached out to Serine thru a family referral and that was the best decision I could have ever made. Serine and her team were on my side from day one. I was very intimidated, nervous, and extremely scared of the whole court process. Knowing I had Serine in my corner made an almost unbearable and stressful situation seem manageable. I never doubted Serine’s ability to achieve the best possible outcome for me. Serine goes above and beyond expectations. I felt very comfortable sharing the most private details with her because she was easy to talk to and extremely comforting. Serine is professional, compassionate, and very knowledgeable. Serine and her staff were always available to answer any of my questions and concerns. Serine went out of her way to ensure I knew everything about my case and what I was getting myself into. I am very fortunate to have her on my side. If you need a family law attorney and you want the BEST, then call Serine A. Tsuda. Serine has completely exceeded my expectations and I will forever be grateful for what she has done for me.

P
Puth Dith
Mar 26, 2018

I reached out to Serine 2 years back after having bad experiences with 2 different lawyers, one was even a referral. I was to the point where I was planning on representing myself, but there was too much riding on this for me to take that chance even though I had limited financial resources. My initial consultation was roughly 1 1/2 hours long, much longer than what was standard. Serine went above and beyond to explain everything I needed know and what I could expect. Serine even followed up with me a couple of days later and shared information on different agencies that would take my case for free. Even though I had the option to be represented by reputable agencies at minimal costs. I knew Serine had my best interest at heart and felt that she genuinely cared and was not just taking on another case. It also helps that she is extremely smart, thorough, and very good at what she does. I wish I had met Serine sooner. I would not have been in the mess I was in. My life is at ease knowing I have an attorney I trust and can reach out to anytime. As long as Serine is still actively practicing law. I feel like I have an attorney for life. I can't say that about too many professionals.

P
Puth Dith
Mar 26, 2018

I reached out to Serine 2 years back after having bad experiences with 2 different lawyers, one was even a referral. I was to the point where I was planning on representing myself, but there was too much riding on this for me to take that chance even though I had limited financial resources. My initial consultation was roughly 1 1/2 hours long, much longer than what was standard. Serine went above and beyond to explain everything I needed know and what I could expect. Serine even followed up with me a couple of days later and shared information on different agencies that would take my case for free. Even though I had the option to be represented by reputable agencies at minimal costs. I knew Serine had my best interest at heart and felt that she genuinely cared and was not just taking on another case. It also helps that she is extremely smart, thorough, and very good at what she does. I wish I had met Serine sooner. I would not have been in the mess I was in. My life is at ease knowing I have an attorney I trust and can reach out to anytime. As long as Serine is still actively practicing law. I feel like I have an attorney for life. I can't say that about too many professionals.

J
Jason Kho
Dec 04, 2019

I used Ms. Serine Tsuda for my prenuptial agreement and she is professional, knowledgeable, and transparent on the topics discussed at hand. She was able to guide me in an efficient and timely manner which I cannot thank her enough. At the end of my process with Ms. Tsuda, I was pleasantly surprised that she did not use up the entire retainer and refunded the remaining balance. I have dealt with plenty of attorneys and once you pay that retainer most attorneys will say that there is nothing left over. I really appreciate the honesty and ethics with Ms. Tsuda. I highly recommend anyone in need of attorney services to use Ms. Serine Tsuda and her law firm. Thank you again and your hard work is greatly appreciated!!!

J
Jason Kho
Dec 04, 2019

I used Ms. Serine Tsuda for my prenuptial agreement and she is professional, knowledgeable, and transparent on the topics discussed at hand. She was able to guide me in an efficient and timely manner which I cannot thank her enough. At the end of my process with Ms. Tsuda, I was pleasantly surprised that she did not use up the entire retainer and refunded the remaining balance. I have dealt with plenty of attorneys and once you pay that retainer most attorneys will say that there is nothing left over. I really appreciate the honesty and ethics with Ms. Tsuda. I highly recommend anyone in need of attorney services to use Ms. Serine Tsuda and her law firm. Thank you again and your hard work is greatly appreciated!!!