September LPEP Spotlight: Michael Lonich

Michael Lonich is a managing attorney at Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri.

What do you like about practicing family law?

A: Family Law gives me the opportunity to partner with clients at a critical time in their life. Being there for them, listening and understanding the emotional toll divorce has on clients is rewarding. In the mediation context, acting as a couples’ mediator allows me to help find a solution with respect and assist the parties to come together and work to find solutions in a collaborative setting.

What strengths do you bring to the game?

A: My greatest strength as a litigator is going toe to toe with opposing counsel. Anticipating the opposition’s every move and developing my client’s response to stay on the offensive and one step ahead. As a mediator, understanding the financial & emotional cost of litigation helps us work with parties to find solutions to contentious issues. As a mediator, my role is both active and interactive with the parties to resolve their disputes in a positive fashion.

Something about you?

A: David Patton and I founded this firm in 1994. I knew then, as I know now, that my practice should be in San Jose where I grew up. Together with my wife Lisa and the family hound, Copper, we have three sons, Andy, Ryan, and Michael. My two oldest boys have grown up and work locally. My youngest is a freshman at Bellarmine College Preparatory, my alma mater, and I enjoy watching him play freshman football. Go Bells!