Judge: Lynne M. Hobbs, Case: 24STCV24215, Date: 2025-04-18 Tentative Ruling

Case Number: 24STCV24215    Hearing Date: April 18, 2025    Dept: 61

BERNARD PITTMAN, AN INDIVIDUAL vs RALPHS GROCERY COMPANY, A CORPORATION, et al.

Tentative

The present motion pertains to Daniel Hakhamzadeh of the firm Proper Law, PC, counsel for Plaintiff Bernard Pittman. Hakhamzadeh submits a declaration stating that Pittman’s conduct has made it unreasonably difficult for him to continue in the representation, and that Pittman has insisted on engaging in conduct contrary to Hakhamzadeh’s advice and judgment. Hakhamzadeh states that Pittman has threatened him and that there exists a personality clash warranting granting relief from the representation. The motion includes a proposed order, detailing upcoming dates of hearing, including a case management conference, demurrer and an OSC re: sanctions for failing to file a proof of service, both set for June 2, 2025.

Given the “personality clash” identified by Hakhamzadeh, good cause exists to grant the motion. Although there are significant hearings pending within two months of the hearing on the present motion, such hearings may be continued if necessary to permit Plaintiff additional time to find new representation.

Daniel Hakhamzadeh’s Motion to be Relieved as Counsel for Plaintiff Bernard Pittman is GRANTED, effective upon moving counsel filing with the court proof of service of a copy of the signed order on the client, as set forth in Cal. Rules of Court Rule 3.1362(e).

Moving counsel is to give notice within 5 days of this Order.