Mario Tafur

I have built a career and a reputation by advocating for the rights of the accused. At Bulldog Law, my team and I have defended thousands of clients throughout the United States in various criminal cases across both state and federal courts, encompassing trials and appeals. Additionally, we manage personal injury and cryptocurrency cases.

My lawyers and I have been described as "bulldogs" for our tenacious and successful representation in legal proceedings. We vigorously defend our clients, fully aware of the high stakes and our potential to significantly impact their lives.

• Free Consultation

California

State Bar of California

Attorney - Founder

Bulldog Law

Current

James E. Rogers College of Law, University of Arizona

J.D. (1998)

1995 - 1998

Northern Arizona University

B.A. (1994) | Philosophy

1990 - 1994

California State Bar  # 329899

member

Current

Q. Impact of AB625 on EOP status parolee in California, 2025

April 24, 2025

A: AB625, if enacted, could influence the parole process for an EOP status inmate, who, by virtue of their severe mental disorder, requires enhanced clinical interventions while incarcerated. Under existing law, parolees with such conditions typically must undergo inpatient treatment unless the State Department of State Hospitals certifies that outpatient treatment is safe and effective, subject to review by the Board of Parole Hearings. If AB625 modifies this certification process or expands access to outpatient treatment programs, it could create more opportunities for your parolee to transition to outpatient care upon release, potentially facilitating an earlier or less restrictive parole placement. This aligns with California’s emphasis on the least restrictive treatment setting that ensures public safety and effective care.

Conversely, AB625 could introduce new eligibility criteria or procedural safeguards that impact the parole timeline. For example, enhanced oversight of mental health treatment plans might streamline the process by clarifying outpatient suitability or delay it if additional assessments are required. Legal precedents, such as In re Shelton, emphasize that parole decisions must fairly account for mental health conditions, prohibiting denials based solely on mental illness without constitutional justification. Thus, AB625’s provisions must comply with these standards to avoid unduly burdening EOP status parolees.

The specific impact of AB625 remains contingent on its final text and implementation, which may interact with existing statutes governing parolee treatment, such as Penal Code sections 2962 and 2964. These laws outline criteria for treatment as a parole condition and the process for outpatient placement, respectively. ... Read More

Q. Seeking pro bono attorney for DRE licensing issue unrelated to real estate activity, involving money laundering charges.

April 24, 2025

A: Under California law, the DRE may suspend or revoke a license if a licensee is convicted of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of a real estate professional. However, since your money laundering charges—stemming from buying and selling dollars at the border—are unrelated to real estate, the DRE must demonstrate a clear connection between your conduct and the profession to justify disciplinary action. Absent this nexus, any suspension or revocation may be challenged as overly punitive. Additionally, if you entered a guilty plea to a felony, the DRE may impose a suspension pending sentencing, but this must be rescinded if the plea is withdrawn. The public disclosure of your legal documents on the DRE portal raises additional concerns about privacy and due process, which a skilled attorney can investigate and address.

To secure pro bono legal assistance, you can explore several resources in California. The State Bar of California provides a directory of legal aid organizations offering pro bono services for administrative and licensing matters. The San Diego County Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral and Information Service may connect you with attorneys providing free or low-cost representation. Nonprofit organizations, such as the Legal Aid Society of San Diego, often assist with administrative law issues, including professional licensing disputes. Additionally, law school clinics, such as those at the University of San Diego School of Law, may offer free legal support under faculty supervision.

Challenging the DRE’s actions requires a strategic defense, including demonstrating the lack of a substantial relationship between your charges and real estate duties, addressing the public disclosure of your documents, and navigating any related criminal proceedings. Each case presents distinct complexities, and prompt consultation with experienced legal counsel is essential to safeguard your professional license. ... Read More

Q. Accused of assault and harassment after serving a subpoena as a minister.

April 24, 2025

A: Under California law, the DRE may suspend or revoke a license if a licensee is convicted of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of a real estate professional. However, since your money laundering charges—stemming from buying and selling dollars at the border—are unrelated to real estate, the DRE must demonstrate a clear connection between your conduct and the profession to justify disciplinary action. Absent this nexus, any suspension or revocation may be challenged as overly punitive. Additionally, if you entered a guilty plea to a felony, the DRE may impose a suspension pending sentencing, but this must be rescinded if the plea is withdrawn. The public disclosure of your legal documents on the DRE portal raises additional concerns about privacy and due process, which a skilled attorney can investigate and address.

To secure pro bono legal assistance, you can explore several resources in California. The State Bar of California provides a directory of legal aid organizations offering pro bono services for administrative and licensing matters. The San Diego County Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral and Information Service may connect you with attorneys providing free or low-cost representation. Nonprofit organizations, such as the Legal Aid Society of San Diego, often assist with administrative law issues, including professional licensing disputes. Additionally, law school clinics, such as those at the University of San Diego School of Law, may offer free legal support under faculty supervision.

Challenging the DRE’s actions requires a strategic defense, including demonstrating the lack of a substantial relationship between your charges and real estate duties, addressing the public disclosure of your documents, and navigating any related criminal proceedings. Each case presents distinct complexities, and prompt consultation with experienced legal counsel is essential to safeguard your professional license. ... Read More