About Us

Michael Lubin grew up in New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. After leaving the Northeast, Mr. Lubin found home in the warm climate of Southern California. Mr. Lubin obtained his undergraduate degree from Chapman University. He enjoyed the shrewd scholastic environment so much, he decided to continue studying at Chapman’s law school. During his time as a law student, he interned for the Honorable Andrew J. Guilford of the United States District Court and served on the Chapman Law Review as a Staff and Symposium Editor.

After he graduated from law school, Mr. Lubin began his career at a preeminent litigation firm. There, Mr. Lubin was able to hone his skills on a variety of complex matters, ranging from defending catastrophic injury cases to prosecuting highly complex multi-party construction project disputes. During his time at this firm, he garnered the skills necessary to immediately and aggressively impact his clients’ cases at every stage, from pre-litigation through appeal. He also began collecting numerous success stories, including his first favorable jury verdict and countless dismissals and favorable settlements.

Next, Mr. Lubin joined a Southern California real estate and business litigation law firm that focused almost exclusively on HOA disputes. There, Mr. Lubin managed a team of attorneys, advised clients on the complexities of the Davis-Stirling Act, prosecuted and defended cases through favorable awards and settlements on behalf of homeowners, and otherwise honed his already sharp skills. Mr. Lubin also met his current partners. Together, they decided that there was a better way to assist homeowners prosecute and defend their rights.

Mr. Lubin is one of LPC’s founding partners and its head trial lawyer. He has a keen intellect and an eye for detail, which has earned him a reputation as an aggressive champion of homeowner rights, a powerful advocate, and a persuasive trial lawyer. Mr. Lubin is unwaveringly dedicated to his clients and will stop at nothing to assist his clients obtain their goals.

Being a good legal writer and researcher requires breadth and depth of knowledge. Every example, every analogy needs to connect with the real world. That’s what makes Mr. Pham an effective lawyer. He’s a Renaissance man. He fences. He free dives. He roasts his own coffee. He keeps bees. He forages gourmet edibles. He’s an avid rock climber. He dabbles in competitive BBQ as both a chef and a judge. He’s always learning something new. Each of those experiences helps him write excellent legal briefs that relate the law to the real world.

Mr. Pham’s love for learning unusual skills began early. He began attending selected college classes in the 6th grade, during which he developed a love for coffee and musical instruments. He attended undergraduate at UC Davis where despite double majoring, he graduated in just six quarters. There, he picked up fencing and foraging. He then attended law school at Indiana University on a scholarship where he was the managing editor of the Federal Communications Law Journal and Captain of the Indiana University Men’s Foil Team. While in Indiana, he cultivated his outdoorsmanship and parkour skills.

No matter where he practiced, Mr. Pham found himself the go-to person for difficult litigation problems, especially ones that seemed impossible. His knowledge of the nuances of arcane real estate law, his novel approach to solving litigation problems, and his ability to craft persuasive legal briefs make him an extremely effective attorney.

Eventually, Mr. Pham found kindred spirits in Mr. Lubin and Mr. Caplin. After countless discussions about novel approaches to litigation cases and debates about complex areas of law, the three became fast friends. That friendship eventually evolved into Lubin Pham + Caplin LLP.

Mr. Caplin’s legal education began well before he started practicing law or even attending law school. With a 9th Circuit Court of Appeals Judge as his grandfather, and the Executive Director of the Southern California ACLU as his grandmother, Mr. Caplin learned how to be an effective advocate at an early age. His formative years were spent at judicial conferences and impassioned speeches regarding civil rights. In other words, Mr. Caplin’s career was never really a question.

As a native of Southern California, the first formal step in his journey was obviously obtaining his undergraduate degree from the University of California at Los Angeles. Loving the outdoors and mountains surrounding the greater Los Angeles area, Mr. Caplin went on to attend law school at the Pepperdine University School of Law. There, he focused on real estate, land use, and corporate law; was the Lead Articles Editor of the National Association of Administrative Law Judiciary; won numerous awards, including receiving the CALI Award for the Highest Grade in the Course for Legal Writing, Real Estate Finance, and Mergers and Acquisitions; and was also published in a national employment law journal for his article “Why the NLRB Can be ‘Facebook Friends’ with both Employees and Employers.” He concluded his tenure at law school by graduating cum laude.

Mr. Caplin began his practice working for a highly-respected law firm that represented the largest public entities in the state, as well as international architectural and engineering firms. There, Mr. Caplin cut his teeth on cases involving complex construction, traumatic injuries, and civil rights violations. He obtained countless favorable outcomes for his clients, including successful dispositive motions, and no-liability findings in 10-figure cases. While Mr. Caplin enjoyed those successes, he decided he wanted to represent people instead of the biggest entities in the state.

So Mr. Caplin joined a law firm that specialized in real estate law. There, he represented homeowners in disputes against tyrannical HOAs. After representing hundreds of homeowners, and learning the ins and outs of the Davis-Stirling Act, Mr. Caplin decided it was time to strike out on his own.

He had the great fortune of connecting with Mr. Lubin and Mr. Pham. With Mr. Lubin’s relentlessness and tenacity, Mr. Pham’s once-in-a-generation legal research and writing abilities, and Mr. Caplin’s charisma and practical approach to solving complex problems, the three decided they were the perfect team.

JC graduated cum laude from the University of California Irvine with a bachelor’s degree in political science. Then graduated with honors from the University of California Irvine School of Law where he received UCI’s Faculty Award for the highest performance in Remedies and Torts. While in law school, he was Editor for both the UCI Law Review and the UCI inaugural Journal of International, Transnational, and Comparative Law. After graduating he practiced complex commercial and real property litigation with a large defense firm.

Brock Kaminski understands that advancing a client’s interests in a lawsuit or dispute requires constant thought, planning and execution. He also understands that the most comprehensive strategy is effectively worthless without continuous communication with the client. This is because even the best legal strategy can be effectively worthless if the client doesn’t have input.

Kaminski is also an avid auto racing fan. Just like in racing, representing clients requires constant attention and focus. Even the smallest mistake can lead to disastrous results. And giving up one inch to an opponent could mean losing the race by a mile. Knowing this, Mr. Kaminski works tirelessly to achieve the best outcomes for his clients.

Over the years, he has represented countless individuals and businesses in a wide range of civil matters. He has extensive experience litigating cases involving real estate, construction defects, contract disputes, products liability, and even auto accidents. In his first year as a practicing attorney, Brock was on the trial team for a criminal defendant in federal court, which ultimately resulted in a pardon from the President of the United States. In addition to handling cases in state court and private arbitration, he also has experience in the Arizona Court of Appeals, the Arizona Supreme Court, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court.

Kaminski has been published numerous times in the Maricopa County Bar Association’s monthly newspaper; “Evolution of Implied Warranty in Arizona” (March 2020), “How to Navigate Potential Fee Liability in Tort-Based Construction Cases” (April 2021) and “Can a Homeowner Sue a Subcontractor for Negligence?” (April 2022). He served as an editor for a treatise on commercial leasing in Arizona. Joint Tenancies: Property Leasing in Cannabis Commerce (American Bar Association, State and Local Government Section, 2018). He received a Juris Doctor, cum laude, from Loyola University Chicago, during which time he externed for two U.S. District Court judges, and worked for the City of Chicago Department of Law’s Federal Civil Rights Litigation Division.

Kaminski is now the managing partner of Lubin Pham + Caplin, LLP’s Arizona office. He joined the team to continue LPC’s mission of providing the best outcomes for people involved in disputes with their HOA.

Kyle Mott understands how stressful disputes with your HOA can be. Whether it’s an issue over assessments, architectural approvals, or board overreach, Kyle can help you navigate property laws and complex HOA rules with confidence. With a reputation for compassion, persistence, and results, Kyle takes pride in leveling the playing field for his clients and finding fair, lasting resolutions.

Kyle brings a wealth of diverse legal experience to Lubin Pham + Caplin LLP. He has represented countless individuals and businesses in a wide range of both civil and criminal matters in courts around Washington State. In addition to his experience as an attorney, Kyle was elected to serve as a Chelan County District Court Judge in 2018. In that role, he presided over criminal cases and civil matters with up to $100,000 in controversy. Despite running for reelection unopposed, Kyle opted to return to the active practice of law so he could ensure clients’ voices are heard and that they are treated fairly under the law.

Kyle previously served as a Steering Committee Member and Co-Chair for the Washington State Bar Association’s Trial Advocacy Program, and was also a member of the Public Outreach Committee and Legislative Committee of the Washington State District and Municipal Court Judges’ Association. He received his Juris Doctor, cum laude, from Chapman University School of Law, during which time he externed for U.S. District Court Judge Andrew J. Guilford and served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Chapman Law Review.

Kyle is the managing partner of Lubin Pham + Caplin LLP’s Washington office. He looks forward to working with his clients to secure just and efficient outcomes to their disputes with their HOAs.

William “Bill” Idleman obtained his law degree from Chapman University School of Law. While in law school he participated in Moot Court and he interned at the Orange County Office of the County Counsel.

Before joining Lubin Pham + Caplin LLP, Bill represented large financial institutions on hundreds of cases involving mortgage servicing issues, real estate, and business disputes. With over a decade of experience, Bill has successfully obtained favorable trial verdicts and summary judgment in title disputes and wrongful foreclosure cases.

In his free time, he can be found on the golf course or spending time with his family.

Litigation is about clarity. A well-argued case isn’t just rooted in precedent or procedure—it has to make sense in the real world. Tim has always been drawn to that challenge: taking something complex, breaking it down, and delivering it in a way that resonates.

He didn’t come to the law on a straight path. Before attending graduate school, Tim worked with touring musicians at a leading business management firm, brewed beer in the Rockies, and performed stand-up comedy. Those experiences sharpened his ability to adapt, connect, and think on his feet—skills he now uses in the courtroom and conference room alike.

Tim was a member of the Willamette Angel Fund investment team, collaborating with angel investors across the West Coast to evaluate early-stage companies in tech, life sciences, and consumer products. His internships ranged from nonprofit environmental work with watershed councils in Oregon’s Willamette Valley to in-house counsel for a growing food and beverage startup.

Before law school, Tim earned his B.S. in Finance from California State University, Long Beach, with a concentration in Real Estate Investments. He was a nationally ranked competitor on CSULB’s Moot Court team, where he placed among the top orators in the country. It was there that he developed his love for advocacy and for finding the cleanest path through complicated legal arguments.

Today, his practice focuses on litigation and alternative dispute resolution. He works with individuals, business owners, and homeowners to help them protect what matters most. While litigation is his primary focus, he draws on his years of experience as corporate counsel to advise early- and growth-stage companies on structure, strategy, and execution, helping clients navigate disputes with a business-minded lens.

Outside the office, Tim is usually out exploring—with a weighted pack on his back and headphones full of science fiction and fantasy. He’s a regular at live shows and always looking for his next trail—and his next story.

Notable achievements during law school:

• Tim earned his J.D., summa cum laude, from Willamette University College of Law and
• M.B.A., with honors, from the Atkinson Graduate School of Management.

Divya oversees the pre-litigation department at Lubin Pham + Caplin LLP. Her proactive and aggressive style has helped countless clients reach a favorable resolution. Prior to LPC, Divya led the pre-litigation department at another law firm focused on real estate law. She also practiced in the labor and employment fields, as well as criminal prosecution and defense.

Audra Bolen graduated cum laude from Rockford University with a Bachelor of Arts in both Sociology and Psychology. After graduation, Audra attended Marquette University Law School where she graduated with a certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution and as a member of the Pro Bono Honor Society, after devoting over 50 hours of free legal services. After graduation, Audra became nationally certified in mediation.

In her free time, Audra enjoys reading and spending time outdoors with her husband and two small dogs.

Jamie “James” Broberg graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Mathematics and Computational Sciences. Following graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy. Upon completing his initial commitment, he established a career in Southern California as a software developer, a field he worked in for approximately 15 years. This was followed by a brief tenure as a Patent Examiner at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Jamie subsequently earned a Juris Doctor degree from Abraham Lincoln University. In his personal time, he maintains an active lifestyle, engaging in activities such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and weightlifting.

Paul H. Deese, Esq. is a dedicated and skilled attorney specializing in business and real estate litigation, with extensive experience representing clients in all phases of litigation. Mr. Deese is committed to providing tailored, results-driven legal services that protect his clients’ interests and promote their success. In addition to his work as a trial lawyer, Mr. Deese is a certified mediator and has successfully mediated dozens of matters, offering clients efficient and cost-effective alternatives to trial.

Prior to joining Lubin Pham + Caplin LLP, Mr. Deese built a strong litigation background through diverse experiences across multiple jurisdictions. He began his practice in Chicago, Illinois, where he represented clients in multimillion-dollar commercial disputes in state and federal courts, as well as before the United States Court of Appeals. Upon returning to Orange County in 2018, Mr. Deese quickly rose through the ranks to become Managing Partner and Chair of the Litigation Department at a midsized law firm, overseeing hundreds of active litigation matters and leading numerous cases through trial and arbitration.

In his free time, Mr. Deese enjoys running, woodworking, and spending time with his wife and two Great Danes.

Elaine graduated from American University’s Washington College of Law where she was a member of the American University Business Law Review. While in law school, she served on the executive board for the Alternative Dispute Resolution Honor Society. In 2014, she won the St. John’s Securities Dispute Resolution Triathlon after a two-day competition in negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. Prior to joining Lubin Pham + Caplin LLP, Elaine served as a judicial extern for the Honorable C. Philip Nichols, Jr. in Prince George’s County, Maryland, then practiced business, real estate, and employment litigation. In her free time, she enjoys powerlifting, reading, and event planning.

Ramy graduated cum laude from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in 2018. While in law school, he assisted on a wrongful death case that achieved the top 50 jury verdicts in California for 2018. Upon passing the bar, Ramy immediately started his legal career at a Southern California real estate and business litigation law firm that focused almost exclusively on HOA disputes. Now, he continues to represent homeowners against authoritarian HOAs.

Marcelo obtained his law degree from Golden Gate University’s School of Law in San Francisco, CA. While in law school, Marcelo was an editor of the Environmental Law Journal, a member of the Honors Law Society, and appeared on the Dean’s List a total of four of the six semesters of law school. Upon graduation, Marcelo received Certificates of Specialization in Business Law, Public Interest Law, and Intellectual Property Law.

Prior to joining Lubin Pham + Caplin LLP, Marcelo provided legal housing services to San Francisco’s most stratified individuals. During his time there, Marcelo learned the importance of tailoring legal strategies to each case and the value that comes with building a transparent relationship with clients. In his free time, Marcelo enjoys gardening, discovering new restaurants, and staying active.

Celine graduated with her bachelor’s degree in English from The George Washington University. She then continued her education and obtained her law degree from Chapman University. While at Chapman, Celine completed an emphasis in Environmental, Land Use, and Real Estate, and received Chapman’s Highest Grade award in Environmental Law, State and Local Tax, and Environmental Justice. She was admitted to the State Bar of California in December 2023.

Prior to joining LPC, Celine spent nearly a decade working in marketing and market research for masterplan community developers and homebuilders, primarily in California and Arizona. She co-wrote over thirty stories and case studies on innovative residential products and planned communities in southern California from 1960 to present and assisted in teaching a course in planned community development at University of California’s MBA program.

In her free time, Celine likes to play tennis, listen to podcasts, and hang out with her family (especially her dog and cat).

Han Sir is a civil litigator with a drive for taking on the most complex of cases and devising practical, efficient solutions. Having lived in six different countries and working in other career fields before law school, Han brings a world view to problem-solving. Whether in pre-suit negotiations, mediation, arbitration, or trial, Han subscribes to the belief that there is a practical solution to every situation—no matter how challenging the situation may appear. Throughout his legal career, Han has employed his pragmatic approach to help clients understand and protect their legal rights, to settle misunderstandings between HOAs/neighbors and homeowners; companies and customers; and to resolve construction-related disputes between general contractors, subcontractors, and homeowners.

Han graduated from Willamette University College of Law in Salem, Oregon. He clerked for the Oregon Department of Justice during law school, and is an active member of the California, Oregon, and Washington state bars.

Caroline graduated from Washington State University with a Bachelor’s in history and a minor in Spanish. She then graduated from Gonzaga University School of Law. While in law school she was a research assistant for Dr. Juandalynn Talyor, a mitigation specialist representing criminal clients facing Texas’ death row. Before Lubin Pham Caplin, Caroline was a worker compensation attorney who represented injured workers on their claims against the Department of Labor and Industries and insurance companies representing employers. She speaks Spanish and has represented clients in both English and in Spanish. In her free time she enjoys reading, cooking, swimming, and taking care of her 150+ plants.

Zachary earned his Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law, where he was awarded a Mediation Scholarship and competed extensively on the school’s Alternative Dispute Resolution team. He completed his undergraduate studies in International Relations at the University of California, Davis. Prior to joining Lubin Pham + Caplin LLP, Zachary gained legal experience across federal and local jurisdictions. He served as a judicial extern in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California, worked with the San Diego City Attorney’s Office, and handled IP and contract matters at the New Media Rights Clinic. Zachary uses his strong dispute resolution and advocacy background to deliver results for the firm’s clients.

Dariia has always been drawn to civil procedure and litigation. She graduated summa cum laude from St. Petersburg State University with a Civil Procedure concentration. She also co-authored a Civil Procedure teaching guide.

At McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento, California, Dariia received two CALI Excellence for the Future Awards. One was in Civil Procedure and the other in Evidence. It was one more sign of her drive to litigate.

Her achievements earned her several prestigious merit-based scholarships. She received one at the Max Planck Institute for Comparative and International Private Law in Hamburg, Germany. She also received a full scholarship for her LL.M. at McGeorge.

One interesting fact about Dariia: she passed the California Bar Exam before she graduated from law school.

Before joining LPC, Dariia gained legal experience in Russia, Germany, and the United States (California). She worked on a variety of business law and real estate matters, always putting her clients’ best interests first. She also contributes to the legal profession as an Adjunct Professor of Law at McGeorge School of Law.

Dariia is fluent in English, German, and Russian. In her free time, she learns Turkish and plays soccer.