Chance, et al. v. Stealth Auto Recovery

CASE NUMBER: 25CV-0208848 Tentative Ruling on Motions to be Relieved as Counsel: Neama Rahmani from West Coast Trial Lawyers APLC moves to be relieved as counsel for Plaintiffs Douglas Chance and Saundra Martinez. A motion was filed for each Plaintiff.

CRC Rule 3.1362 provides the requirements for a motion to be relieved as counsel. In particular, CRC 3.1362 requires the use of specific mandatory Judicial Council forms for the Notice and Motion (MC-051) and Supporting Declaration (MC-052). Both forms and the proposed Order (MC-053) must be served on the client and all parties who have appeared in the case at either the current address or the last known address that has been confirmed within thirty days. CRC 3.1362(d). There are proofs of service on file reflecting timely service by mail on Plaintiffs as well as Defendants’ counsel who was served electronically. Counsel was unable to confirm the address used to serve Plaintiffs. However, it appears that counsel has taken reasonable steps to confirm the address.

As to the merits, a declaration must be filed that states in general terms and without compromising the confidentiality of the attorney-client relationship why a motion under CCP § 284(2) is brought instead of filing a consent under CCP § 284(1). Plaintiff’s counsel has provided evidence that there is a breakdown in the attorneyclient relationship that prevents continued representation.

The motions are GRANTED. The matter will be on calendar on Monday, November 2, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. in Department 63 for status of counsel. Counsel provided proposed Orders that will be modified by the Court to include the future hearing date. Neama Rahmani from West Coast Trial Lawyers APLC will be relieved upon the filing of the Notices of Entry of Order. Plaintiffs’ counsel is ordered to provide notice to Defendants.

DIVIS VS. SHASTA AREA SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS AGENCY, ET AL.