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Our Team
Leaders in Legal Excellence


Jianmin (James) Zhou
Mr. Zhou is a graduate of Peking University, and he has obtained a Ph.D. degree from Columbia University and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from University of Pennsylvania. In addition, he used to conduct postdoctoral research at California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Mr. Zhou is a trial attorney in California and federal courts, a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), and a certified patent attorney admitted to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Before founding his own firm, Mr. Zhou worked at Vault 50 law firm Hogan & Lovells LLP, and he collaborated with Acting Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor, Julie Su, on multiple labor law and civil rights related lawsuits, while working at the Asian Pacific American Legal Center of Southern California (APALC).
Mr. Zhou’s early career of studying in the U.S. as an international student and his scientific background give him a unique advantage in representing scholars and scientific researchers in their immigration applications. On the other hand, his rich financial knowledge and business expertise not only make him invincible in business immigration cases, but also tremendously benefit him in successfully representing clients and fighting for their best interests in various commercial litigations. As a seasoned business lawyer, Mr. Zhou represents a diverse clientele. His clients include both large state-owned enterprises, such as China International Marine Containers (CIMC), Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) and China Mobile, and many start-ups and small- and medium-sized companies. In his business law practice, Mr. Zhou is committed to providing legal compliance, corporate risk control, equity structure, mergers and acquisitions, and various related legal consulting services to its clients. In addition, Mr. Zhou has represented many clients in China and the United States, including both companies and individuals, in their trademark, patent, and copyright applications.
Bar Admission</b>
State Bar of California
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Education
J.D., University of Pennsylvania (2010)
Ph.D., Columbia University (2002)
B.S., Peking University (1994)
Mr. Zhou’s early career of studying in the U.S. as an international student and his scientific background give him a unique advantage in representing scholars and scientific researchers in their immigration applications. On the other hand, his rich financial knowledge and business expertise not only make him invincible in business immigration cases, but also tremendously benefit him in successfully representing clients and fighting for their best interests in various commercial litigations. As a seasoned business lawyer, Mr. Zhou represents a diverse clientele. His clients include both large state-owned enterprises, such as China International Marine Containers (CIMC), Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) and China Mobile, and many start-ups and small- and medium-sized companies. In his business law practice, Mr. Zhou is committed to providing legal compliance, corporate risk control, equity structure, mergers and acquisitions, and various related legal consulting services to its clients. In addition, Mr. Zhou has represented many clients in China and the United States, including both companies and individuals, in their trademark, patent, and copyright applications.
Bar Admission</b>
State Bar of California
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Education
J.D., University of Pennsylvania (2010)
Ph.D., Columbia University (2002)
B.S., Peking University (1994)


Michael Israel
Michael has been litigating cases in California for more than fifteen years. His track record of success is built on Michael’s rare blend of analytical and strategic skills, ethical practices, and relationship building. Through the years, Michael has handled cases in state and federal courts throughout California, has argued in several Courts of Appeal, and has briefed in the California Supreme Court.
After growing up in the midwest, Michael has lived in Southern California since 2001, other than attending law school at the University of Minnesota. He spent the first stage of his career at an AV-Rated litigation firm, rising to the position of Partner and handling complex and high-exposure matters from intake through trial. Michael’s experience was different from that of many new attorneys, as he was taking depositions, briefing and arguing dispositive motions, drafting liability and exposure analyses, and developing successful litigation strategies from day one.
After eight years in litigation, Michael took a position as General Counsel for a fitness venture that he helped grow into a multi-national business organization. Michael handled the entire spectrum of legal issues that a developing business enterprise encounters over the course of eight years.
Now his experience as both a litigator and in-house corporate counsel provides him a unique understanding of the interaction between business operations and litigation dynamics. Michael brings this valuable perspective to truly understand his clients’ interests and help them achieve the best results possible.
After growing up in the midwest, Michael has lived in Southern California since 2001, other than attending law school at the University of Minnesota. He spent the first stage of his career at an AV-Rated litigation firm, rising to the position of Partner and handling complex and high-exposure matters from intake through trial. Michael’s experience was different from that of many new attorneys, as he was taking depositions, briefing and arguing dispositive motions, drafting liability and exposure analyses, and developing successful litigation strategies from day one.
After eight years in litigation, Michael took a position as General Counsel for a fitness venture that he helped grow into a multi-national business organization. Michael handled the entire spectrum of legal issues that a developing business enterprise encounters over the course of eight years.
Now his experience as both a litigator and in-house corporate counsel provides him a unique understanding of the interaction between business operations and litigation dynamics. Michael brings this valuable perspective to truly understand his clients’ interests and help them achieve the best results possible.


Jonathan Rapel
Attorney Jonathan Rapel received his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Irvine with his Bachelor of Arts degree in American History. He then earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of La Verne College of Law. Mr. Rapel has spent his entire legal career representing individuals in civil cases and criminal cases in both State and Federal Court. Mr. Rapel is licensed to practice law in all four federal districts in the State of California and has also represented clients in Child Protective Services and Dependency Hearings. From simple misdemeanors to the most serious felony offenses, Attorney Rapel has vigorously and zealously defended his clients from virtually all types of criminal allegations. Attorney Rapel also practices personal injury, family law, and restraining orders.
​
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
California State Bar # 285893
ADMITTED TO PRACTICE IN THE FOLLOWING COURTS
All California State Courts
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
US Concealed Carry Association Self Defense Legal Seminar
Criminal Defense and Firearm Rights
​
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
California State Bar # 285893
ADMITTED TO PRACTICE IN THE FOLLOWING COURTS
All California State Courts
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
US Concealed Carry Association Self Defense Legal Seminar
Criminal Defense and Firearm Rights


Sophia Liu
Sophia Liu obtained her Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Davis, and a Master of Laws degree in Intellectual Property Law from Washington University in St. Louis. Her legal career began back in 2014 at an esteemed Los Angeles local law office and has since flourished with an externship at the U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, complemented by her experience at multiple law firms. Licensed to practice law in California, Sophia possesses a strong foundation in the legal field. As an attorney fluent in both English and Mandarin, Sophia understands the complexity that legal issues can present to both new and established immigrants. She provides legal services in various areas, including but not limited to trust and wills, probate, immigration law, business law and family law. She approaches each case with great attention to detail, offering clients legal advice with keen insight and problem-solving skills.


Cedar Wang
Cedar Wang, a UC Davis LL.M. graduate originally from Zhengzhou, China, has swiftly made her mark in civil litigation in Southern California. Rising from law clerk duties to participating in complex civil and criminal cases, Cedar has honed her skills across civil, criminal, and family law.
Cedar's bilingual abilities and bicultural background uniquely position her to connect with diverse clients, enriching her approach to legal representation. She views her hands-on experience as a transformative chapter, deepening her passion for civil litigation and her commitment to impactful legal work.
Cedar's bilingual abilities and bicultural background uniquely position her to connect with diverse clients, enriching her approach to legal representation. She views her hands-on experience as a transformative chapter, deepening her passion for civil litigation and her commitment to impactful legal work.


Denise Lau
Denise is a highly skilled licensed paralegal with 3 years of experience in the areas of civil litigation, criminal, and immigration law. She is a proud graduate of University of California, Berkeley where she earned her bachelor's degree in Legal Studies with a minor in Human Rights and her paralegal certificate. Denise is widely acknowledged for her passion for law and has often been praised for her exceptional attention to detail, strong research skills, and ability to work under pressure. She is exceptionally skilled at drafting legal documents, managing case files and organizing complex legal information. Along with her fluency in English, Cantonese and Mandarin, Denise is an invaluable asset to our legal team, embodying our commitment to excellence, integrity, and teamwork.


Tianyi Gu
Tianyi Gu is a dedicated and compassionate legal professional with a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the University of Southern California Gould School of Law. She also completed a dual Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree at East China University of Political Science and Law and the University of Leeds, giving her a solid foundation in both Chinese and international legal systems.
In her commitment to advocacy, Tianyi has volunteered as a paralegal with AWDPI and AVOICE, organizations focused on supporting Chinese women living abroad who have suffered from domestic violence. Her work has involved providing essential legal assistance and resources to those facing challenging situations, reflecting her dedication to social justice and community support.
Tianyi’s bilingual proficiency in Mandarin and English allows her to effectively communicate and represent clients from diverse backgrounds. Her cultural awareness and linguistic skills are valuable assets in navigating complex legal matters, making her an empathetic and effective advocate for her clients.
In her commitment to advocacy, Tianyi has volunteered as a paralegal with AWDPI and AVOICE, organizations focused on supporting Chinese women living abroad who have suffered from domestic violence. Her work has involved providing essential legal assistance and resources to those facing challenging situations, reflecting her dedication to social justice and community support.
Tianyi’s bilingual proficiency in Mandarin and English allows her to effectively communicate and represent clients from diverse backgrounds. Her cultural awareness and linguistic skills are valuable assets in navigating complex legal matters, making her an empathetic and effective advocate for her clients.


Runze Li
Runze Li graduated from the Pennsylvania State University, Penn State Law, obtained a Master of Laws degree (LL.M.) with a concentration on Advocacy and Litigation. He holds dual Master of Laws degrees from both the U.S. and China. He also has a Bachelor's degree in Economics, majoring in Finance. Given his international experience, Runze is dedicated to handling employment-based and family-based immigration cases. He demonstrates expertise in cases L-1A/EB-1C, NIW/EB-1A, EB-2/EB-3, PERM, EB-5, and E-2, and is committed to assisting individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of the immigration process, providing tailored solutions to help clients achieve their immigration goals efficiently and successfully.
Runze is a licensed attorney in Beijing, China, with extensive experience in legal practice. In China, Runze has represented well-known corporations in high-stakes commercial litigation, insurance litigation, and contract disputes, achieving favorable outcomes in complex legal matters. He has professional experience in designing corporate merger solutions, facilitating intricate financial and contractual negotiations, and resolving disputes through litigation and arbitration.
Runze is a licensed attorney in Beijing, China, with extensive experience in legal practice. In China, Runze has represented well-known corporations in high-stakes commercial litigation, insurance litigation, and contract disputes, achieving favorable outcomes in complex legal matters. He has professional experience in designing corporate merger solutions, facilitating intricate financial and contractual negotiations, and resolving disputes through litigation and arbitration.


Jianmin (James) Zhou
Mr. Zhou is a graduate of Peking University, and he has obtained a Ph.D. degree from Columbia University and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from University of Pennsylvania. In addition, he used to conduct postdoctoral research at California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Mr. Zhou is a trial attorney in California and federal courts, a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), and a certified patent attorney admitted to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Before founding his own firm, Mr. Zhou worked at Vault 50 law firm Hogan & Lovells LLP, and he collaborated with Acting Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor, Julie Su, on multiple labor law and civil rights related lawsuits, while working at the Asian Pacific American Legal Center of Southern California (APALC).
Mr. Zhou’s early career of studying in the U.S. as an international student and his scientific background give him a unique advantage in representing scholars and scientific researchers in their immigration applications. On the other hand, his rich financial knowledge and business expertise not only make him invincible in business immigration cases, but also tremendously benefit him in successfully representing clients and fighting for their best interests in various commercial litigations. As a seasoned business lawyer, Mr. Zhou represents a diverse clientele. His clients include both large state-owned enterprises, such as China International Marine Containers (CIMC), Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) and China Mobile, and many start-ups and small- and medium-sized companies. In his business law practice, Mr. Zhou is committed to providing legal compliance, corporate risk control, equity structure, mergers and acquisitions, and various related legal consulting services to its clients. In addition, Mr. Zhou has represented many clients in China and the United States, including both companies and individuals, in their trademark, patent, and copyright applications.
Bar Admission</b>
State Bar of California
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Education
J.D., University of Pennsylvania (2010)
Ph.D., Columbia University (2002)
B.S., Peking University (1994)
Mr. Zhou’s early career of studying in the U.S. as an international student and his scientific background give him a unique advantage in representing scholars and scientific researchers in their immigration applications. On the other hand, his rich financial knowledge and business expertise not only make him invincible in business immigration cases, but also tremendously benefit him in successfully representing clients and fighting for their best interests in various commercial litigations. As a seasoned business lawyer, Mr. Zhou represents a diverse clientele. His clients include both large state-owned enterprises, such as China International Marine Containers (CIMC), Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) and China Mobile, and many start-ups and small- and medium-sized companies. In his business law practice, Mr. Zhou is committed to providing legal compliance, corporate risk control, equity structure, mergers and acquisitions, and various related legal consulting services to its clients. In addition, Mr. Zhou has represented many clients in China and the United States, including both companies and individuals, in their trademark, patent, and copyright applications.
Bar Admission</b>
State Bar of California
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Education
J.D., University of Pennsylvania (2010)
Ph.D., Columbia University (2002)
B.S., Peking University (1994)


Michael Israel
Michael has been litigating cases in California for more than fifteen years. His track record of success is built on Michael’s rare blend of analytical and strategic skills, ethical practices, and relationship building. Through the years, Michael has handled cases in state and federal courts throughout California, has argued in several Courts of Appeal, and has briefed in the California Supreme Court.
After growing up in the midwest, Michael has lived in Southern California since 2001, other than attending law school at the University of Minnesota. He spent the first stage of his career at an AV-Rated litigation firm, rising to the position of Partner and handling complex and high-exposure matters from intake through trial. Michael’s experience was different from that of many new attorneys, as he was taking depositions, briefing and arguing dispositive motions, drafting liability and exposure analyses, and developing successful litigation strategies from day one.
After eight years in litigation, Michael took a position as General Counsel for a fitness venture that he helped grow into a multi-national business organization. Michael handled the entire spectrum of legal issues that a developing business enterprise encounters over the course of eight years.
Now his experience as both a litigator and in-house corporate counsel provides him a unique understanding of the interaction between business operations and litigation dynamics. Michael brings this valuable perspective to truly understand his clients’ interests and help them achieve the best results possible.
After growing up in the midwest, Michael has lived in Southern California since 2001, other than attending law school at the University of Minnesota. He spent the first stage of his career at an AV-Rated litigation firm, rising to the position of Partner and handling complex and high-exposure matters from intake through trial. Michael’s experience was different from that of many new attorneys, as he was taking depositions, briefing and arguing dispositive motions, drafting liability and exposure analyses, and developing successful litigation strategies from day one.
After eight years in litigation, Michael took a position as General Counsel for a fitness venture that he helped grow into a multi-national business organization. Michael handled the entire spectrum of legal issues that a developing business enterprise encounters over the course of eight years.
Now his experience as both a litigator and in-house corporate counsel provides him a unique understanding of the interaction between business operations and litigation dynamics. Michael brings this valuable perspective to truly understand his clients’ interests and help them achieve the best results possible.


Jonathan Rapel
Attorney Jonathan Rapel received his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Irvine with his Bachelor of Arts degree in American History. He then earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of La Verne College of Law. Mr. Rapel has spent his entire legal career representing individuals in civil cases and criminal cases in both State and Federal Court. Mr. Rapel is licensed to practice law in all four federal districts in the State of California and has also represented clients in Child Protective Services and Dependency Hearings. From simple misdemeanors to the most serious felony offenses, Attorney Rapel has vigorously and zealously defended his clients from virtually all types of criminal allegations. Attorney Rapel also practices personal injury, family law, and restraining orders.
​
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
California State Bar # 285893
ADMITTED TO PRACTICE IN THE FOLLOWING COURTS
All California State Courts
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
US Concealed Carry Association Self Defense Legal Seminar
Criminal Defense and Firearm Rights
​
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
California State Bar # 285893
ADMITTED TO PRACTICE IN THE FOLLOWING COURTS
All California State Courts
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
US Concealed Carry Association Self Defense Legal Seminar
Criminal Defense and Firearm Rights


Sophia Liu
Sophia Liu obtained her Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Davis, and a Master of Laws degree in Intellectual Property Law from Washington University in St. Louis. Her legal career began back in 2014 at an esteemed Los Angeles local law office and has since flourished with an externship at the U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, complemented by her experience at multiple law firms. Licensed to practice law in California, Sophia possesses a strong foundation in the legal field. As an attorney fluent in both English and Mandarin, Sophia understands the complexity that legal issues can present to both new and established immigrants. She provides legal services in various areas, including but not limited to trust and wills, probate, immigration law, business law and family law. She approaches each case with great attention to detail, offering clients legal advice with keen insight and problem-solving skills.


Cedar Wang
Cedar Wang, a UC Davis LL.M. graduate originally from Zhengzhou, China, has swiftly made her mark in civil litigation in Southern California. Rising from law clerk duties to participating in complex civil and criminal cases, Cedar has honed her skills across civil, criminal, and family law.
Cedar's bilingual abilities and bicultural background uniquely position her to connect with diverse clients, enriching her approach to legal representation. She views her hands-on experience as a transformative chapter, deepening her passion for civil litigation and her commitment to impactful legal work.
Cedar's bilingual abilities and bicultural background uniquely position her to connect with diverse clients, enriching her approach to legal representation. She views her hands-on experience as a transformative chapter, deepening her passion for civil litigation and her commitment to impactful legal work.


Denise Lau
Denise is a highly skilled licensed paralegal with 3 years of experience in the areas of civil litigation, criminal, and immigration law. She is a proud graduate of University of California, Berkeley where she earned her bachelor's degree in Legal Studies with a minor in Human Rights and her paralegal certificate. Denise is widely acknowledged for her passion for law and has often been praised for her exceptional attention to detail, strong research skills, and ability to work under pressure. She is exceptionally skilled at drafting legal documents, managing case files and organizing complex legal information. Along with her fluency in English, Cantonese and Mandarin, Denise is an invaluable asset to our legal team, embodying our commitment to excellence, integrity, and teamwork.


Tianyi Gu
Tianyi Gu is a dedicated and compassionate legal professional with a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the University of Southern California Gould School of Law. She also completed a dual Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree at East China University of Political Science and Law and the University of Leeds, giving her a solid foundation in both Chinese and international legal systems.
In her commitment to advocacy, Tianyi has volunteered as a paralegal with AWDPI and AVOICE, organizations focused on supporting Chinese women living abroad who have suffered from domestic violence. Her work has involved providing essential legal assistance and resources to those facing challenging situations, reflecting her dedication to social justice and community support.
Tianyi’s bilingual proficiency in Mandarin and English allows her to effectively communicate and represent clients from diverse backgrounds. Her cultural awareness and linguistic skills are valuable assets in navigating complex legal matters, making her an empathetic and effective advocate for her clients.
In her commitment to advocacy, Tianyi has volunteered as a paralegal with AWDPI and AVOICE, organizations focused on supporting Chinese women living abroad who have suffered from domestic violence. Her work has involved providing essential legal assistance and resources to those facing challenging situations, reflecting her dedication to social justice and community support.
Tianyi’s bilingual proficiency in Mandarin and English allows her to effectively communicate and represent clients from diverse backgrounds. Her cultural awareness and linguistic skills are valuable assets in navigating complex legal matters, making her an empathetic and effective advocate for her clients.
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