Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys
EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST
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.
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 Dun 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.
Accounts of Success
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.
