Mischa Barteau is a skilled litigation attorney with extensive experience representing clients in complex civil matters in both state and federal courts. Her practice focuses on legal ethics, business litigation, municipal law, and professional responsibility. She has a strong background in defending attorneys and law firms in disciplinary proceedings, legal malpractice actions, and disputes involving ethical obligations and attorney conduct.

At Cha Law Ethics, Mischa advised attorneys and firms on compliance with the California Rules of Professional Conduct, handled State Bar investigations and litigation, and provided strategic counsel on issues such as confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and risk mitigation. She appeared before the State Bar Court and in California trial courts in defense of legal professionals.

Previously, she was a litigation attorney at Arnold LaRochelle Mathews VanConas & Zirbel LLP, where she represented clients in a broad spectrum of civil litigation, including business, probate, and landlord-tenant disputes. As Associate General Counsel to the Ojai Valley Sanitary District, she advised on regulatory compliance, board governance, and litigation strategy, successfully defending the District in multiple writ actions.

Her background also includes plaintiff-side experience in class actions, mass torts, and intellectual property litigation. Notable matters include a copyright infringement case against The Walt Disney Company and mass tort litigation on behalf of longshore workers exposed to toxic emissions.

Mischa began her legal career serving the community as a staff attorney with the Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County, where she advised self-represented litigants in civil court proceedings.

Mischa holds a J.D. and a Master of Dispute Resolution from Pepperdine University School of Law, where she was a Senior Staff Member of the Law Review and earned the CALI Award in Advanced Mediation. During law school, Mischa participated in international programs in London and Germany, gaining cross-border legal insights. Mischa completed undergraduate studies at the University of California, Berkeley, earning honors in Political Science with a minor in English.

Known for her strong research and advocacy skills, ethical judgment, and commitment to client service, Mischa continues to bring strategic insight and integrity to every legal challenge.

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