In the News
Criminal Case Dismissed and Civil Rights Action with a Multi-Million Dollar Verdict
During his early career as a criminal defense lawyer, Ed Madrid and three (3) other defense lawyers defended 4 individuals who were wrongfully accused of child molestation. This case along with the infamous McMartin Case were the two leading cases that started a pandemic of child molestation paranoia and pseudo satanic rituals in public, private and day care schools, retreats and neighborhoods across the United States. The media was relentless. Many individuals were falsely arrested, incarcerated and wrongfully prosecuted, including the entire McMartin/Buckey family, the O’Keefe family and Ed’s clients, the Valentin/Malave family.
After putting on an affirmative defense at a six (6) week preliminary hearing, the criminal case was dismissed.
Ed and his colleagues filed a civil rights action against the County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, deputies and accusers. After prevailing in the 1st trial, the County appealed and the case was remanded for a retrial. At the 2nd trial, the verdict was doubled. The case was appealed and remanded for a retrial only on damages. At the start of the 3rd trial, the Court made some unfavorable rulings on the measure of damages. A writ was filed by both sides. The trial was halted. Both Writs of Mandate were granted and set for a hearing. The case resulted in a published opinion. County of Los Angeles, v. Superior Court (2000) 78 Cal.App.4th. 212. This case established the correct measure of damages in a civil rights case filed in state court.
The case was remanded for trial number 4. As jury selection commenced, the County made a multi-million dollar offer, which our clients accepted. The other two plaintiffs proceeded to trial and received multi-million dollar verdicts. Their award was reduced and the case was finally settled.
From start to finish, Ed litigated this case for 17 years. The following article, “And Now The Revenge,” was published by the California Lawyer Magazine in 1990 after the 1st trial. Click HERE to view the Article.
There is no substitute for experienced trial lawyers on your side. Call us at (909) 628-0068 today!
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“Erica is very easy to talk to and explained everything.”
Like most folks, I am not up on lawyer talk and/or the big words you see on certain documents. Erica is very easy to talk to and explained everything. She took the time to make us feel comfortable during our misfortune. Erica's hard work is true and her kindness is genuine - she took time with us and we were not just another client to bill. In our uncertain world these days, Erica is a breath of fresh air! Should we ever need legal aid again, we will call on her again!- Lois D. -
“They went above and beyond and were extremely aggressive with my case at a cost that was significantly lower than I expected.”
If I could give more stars I would! Working with Edward, Erica and their team was an amazing experience. They went above and beyond and were extremely aggressive with my case at a cost that was significantly lower than I expected. I was extremely blessed to have had Edward and Erica by my side through the toughest battle of my life. I highly recommend this office!- Ricardo E. -
“I never got the feeling I was bugging her-- and that matters when determining your attorney!”
This review is for Erica at Madrid Law Firm. Without getting too into my DUI case, I had a special circumstance conviction. She was able to get me the best possible deal from the DA. I truly believe that! Felony dropped to a misdemeanor, bail amount decreased. She was very informative and responded in a timely matter. It was never difficult to reach her and she took the time to explain all my questions. I never got the feeling I was bugging her-- and that matters when determining your attorney! She knows what she is doing, took care of all the DMV matters for me. I highly recommend her, very trustworthy!!- Alyssa J. -
“A Big Thank You! Again, for your time and guidance on getting this ticket taken care of.”
Erica, A Big Thank You! Again, for your time and guidance on getting this ticket taken care of. Thank you again, J. B.- J. B.
