Donald Garcia

Donald was born and raised in Santa Ana, California. After completing high school, Donald spent four years in the military with the 101st Airborne Division based out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky. After his military service, he pursued higher education and decided one day to take the LSAT.  Next thing he knew, he was starting law school and later discovered he was born on Law Day (May 1st!)

Throughout law school, Donald also worked in the insurance industry as a bodily injury adjuster and ended up teaching seminars about the benefits of mediation and arbitration. After graduating from law school, Donald dedicated his career to protecting the rights of those who’ve suffered personal injuries.

Continuing his dedication to public service, Donald also served two terms as the Mayor of the City of Aliso Viejo, California, and served on the City Council for six years. Additionally, he served on the city’s first planning commission and has been a Director with the Orange County Fire Authority. As an attorney, he has achieved a prestigious Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating, awarded to only those with the highest ethical standards and professional ability. (Only about 10 percent of all attorneys hold an AV Preeminent Rating.)

Donald has been married for over 26 years. He has two sons and one daughter. In his spare time, he enjoys reading and playing golf with friends.

Get to Know: Donald A. Garcia

Do you have any pets? “Yes,  one dog and a rabbit.”

Why did you get into personal injury law? “It provides me with the daily opportunity to have a positive effect on someone’s life.”

What does “client first” mean to you? “The client typically only has one case… we handle hundreds. The client case that you are working on at the time comes first, and should be handled like you would handle your own mother’s matter.”

How do you celebrate after a big win for a client? “Dinner with the family.”

Do you have any hidden talents or surprising hobbies? “I’ve played billiards since I was 5.”

What did you think you were going to be when growing up? “An orthopedic surgeon.”

What is your go to comfort food? “Buttered popcorn (preferably from the movie theater!)”

What is your favorite TV show or movie? “Blue Bloods.”