ATTORNEYS

Attorney Jesse Ruben

I have been practicing law in Santa Cruz for 15 years. I began my career as a criminal defense attorney and quickly started practicing family law as well. Over the years my practice became more focused on family law and I now exclusively practice in that field. Fortunately, my criminal defense background and foundation has proven to be invaluable in my family law practice, as it has provided for countless hours in the courtroom in a heavy litigation setting. It has supplied many professional contacts that continue to have value to my clients. Nonetheless, all cases are first explored for fair settlement options and the majority of our cases do negotiate to resolution. However, I have noticed that cases can languish in a settlement/mediation posture for amounts of time that are very damaging to the client, their family and their finances. At times, litigation is necessary, appropriate and, frankly, more time and money efficient then poorly managed negotiations. I look forward to working with you and helping you achieve your goals.

Thank you,
Jesse Ruben

Attorney Jason Fennelly

My name is Jason Fennelly. I graduated from Harbor High School, then enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. After the Marines, I became a Santa Cruz County Correctional Officer, then quickly promoted to Deputy Sheriff. As a Deputy, I went back to school and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Management. Subsequently I earned my Juris Doctorate and a Master’s degree in Legal Studies and I recently passed the California Bar Exam. I have spent my entire professional career in the criminal justice field and remain an active deputy with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office where I’ve now been for 21 years. I am now a practicing attorney and am transitioning between the two professions. While working as a Deputy Sheriff, I’ve had the opportunity to gain an intimate understanding of Santa Cruz courts and have chosen family law as my field of practice.

Thank you,
Jason Fennelly