The California Defense Counsel (CDC) is the political arm of the Association of Defense Counsel of Southern California and the Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada. The activities of the CDC and the CDC PAC, on behalf of civil defense practitioners throughout the State, are vital to making our voices heard at the capitol. We are in critical need of your support.
Why is CDC-PAC so important? Simply put, PAC contributions enable us to raise the profile of the civil defense bar in California. Especially with term limits, there is a constantly changing cast of legislators in the State Capitol, and we must make our presence known, quickly. While political contributions neither can nor should provide a guarantee of legislative success, they do evidence a serious intent to be an active participant in the political process. Make no mistake, the California Legislature and Judicial Council really do directly affect our practices. Whether the issue is summary judgment, expert witnesses, construction defect, the Rules of Professional Conduct or trial court funding, or Rules of Court on trial-setting, continuances or telephonic appearances, decisions are being made which impact our ability to represent clients. The California Defense Counsel has had a number of notable successes in the legislative and administrative processes, but with your help we can be more effective.
Legislative Advocate: Michael D. Belote, California Advocates
With over 45 years of experience representing clients before the California Legislature and state regulators, Michael Belote is a highly respected advocate in the political and legal landscape. His extensive career has spanned multiple industries, including financial services, real estate, health care, the judiciary, and transportation. Recognized as one of Capitol Weekly’s Top 100 in California politics, Mike’s impact on the legislative process is widely acknowledged. His dedication to the community extends beyond policymaking—he was honored as Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year (2021) by an association of philanthropic fundraising professionals in the Sacramento Capital Region. A proud graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, and the McGeorge School of Law, Mike is admitted to practice before both state and federal courts in California. His expertise, leadership, and commitment to public service continue to shape the state’s legal and political landscape.
2025 - 2026 ASCDC Representatives
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Lisa Collinson
Collinson I Greco
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Alice Chen Smith
Yoka | Smith LLP
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Benjamin J. Howard
Neil Dymott
Hudson APLC
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Lindy Bradley
Bradley, Gmelich &
Wellerstein LLP
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Eric Schwettmann
Ballard, Rosenberg,
Golper & Savitt
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