Judge: Thomas D. Long, Case: 20STCV38489, Date: 2023-05-08 Tentative Ruling

Case Number: 20STCV38489    Hearing Date: May 8, 2023    Dept: 48

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

FOR THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES - CENTRAL DISTRICT

Arta K. Wildeboer, counsel of record for Plaintiff Jesus Lopez, seeks to be relieved as counsel.  Counsel’s declaration states that there is an actual conflict of interest that mandates withdrawal under the Rules of Professional Conduct.  Counsel also declares that there are irreconcilable differences that do not allow counsel to effectively represent Plaintiff.  No party opposed the motion.

Absent a showing of resulting prejudice, an attorney’s request for withdrawal should be granted.  (People v. Prince (1968) 268 Cal.App.2d 398, 406.)  Counsel’s motion complies with California Rules of Court, rule 3.1362.  Trial is not until August 21, 2023, and there is no prejudice to Plaintiff.

The proposed order is not filled in by counsel.  Before signing the proposed order, the Court will include the dates of the next hearings and the trial.  Also, at the hearing, counsel must provide Plaintiff’s current or last known address and telephone number to complete the proposed order.

The unopposed motion to be relieved is GRANTED and effective upon filing a proof of service showing service of the signed Form MC-053 order and this order on Jesus Lopez and all parties who have appeared.

Moving party to give notice.

Parties who intend to submit on this tentative must send an email to the Court at SMCDEPT48@lacourt.org indicating intention to submit.  Parties intending to appear are encouraged to appear remotely and should be prepared to comply with Dept. 48’s new requirement that those attending court in person wear a surgical or N95 or KN95 mask.

       Dated this 8th day of May 2023