Download a copy of my curriculum vitae.

EXPERIENCE

With over 40 years of legal experience, Tony brings a deep understanding of both the legal system and the nuanced pathways to resolution. His decades of practice have taught him that while cases may share similarities, each dispute demands a thoughtful, individualized approach. Tony’s strength lies in his ability to remain open-minded and impartial, effectively communicating the perspectives of all parties involved. His seasoned judgment and practical insight allow him to guide discussions with clarity and fairness, making him a trusted and effective presence at the mediation table.

CAREER HISTORY

Managing Partner at Milani & Associates

Spearheaded the defense of complex construction defect, product liability, general liability, premises liability, and toxic tort cases, including those involving significant bodily injury claims. Demonstrated expertise in navigating intricate contract disputes, complex trade issues, risk transfer strategies, and the apportionment of liability and damages among responsible parties. Possesses comprehensive knowledge of insurance coverage, adeptly managing insurance interface, resolving disputes amongst carriers, and handling allocation issues.

Member at Field & Creason

Managed and defended complex construction risk books, overseeing counsel in construction defect litigation and driving resolution of complex business disputes. Coordinated with insurance carriers to ensure strategic alignment in litigation and negotiation efforts, facilitating effective conflict resolution and favorable outcomes.

Member at Thelen, Marin, Johnson & Bridges

Served as legal counsel for a multi-national financial institution, addressing a broad range of legal matters. Represented national banking clients in complex, protracted litigation involving bankruptcy oversight, financial analysis of entities, loan workouts, and foreclosure actions, ensuring legal compliance and effective resolution of high-stakes financial issues.

Vice President and Legal Counsel at Household International Company

Provided legal representation and led contract negotiations for a multi-national financial institution, with a focus on real estate lending for both commercial and residential properties. Conducted municipal bond reviews and comprehensive risk assessments, while advising on lender liability and potential bad faith issues. Ensured compliance with applicable laws and regulations across multi-state lending operations.

Divisional General Counsel at Ponderosa Homes / AETNA Life and Casualty Company

Provided legal oversight for a real estate developer in matters involving property acquisition, sales, and leasing. Ensured compliance with land use regulations and subdivision codes, including certification processes. Managed financial and escrow divisions to support transactional integrity. Developed and executed litigation strategies for both defending against potential claims and prosecuting actions on behalf of the company.

Associate Counsel at McClain, Howard, Danch & Patterson

Handled complex real estate transactions and provided strategic counsel to clients on business acquisitions, litigation matters, and contract interpretation. Advised on bankruptcy proceedings and their implications, including potential buyouts, client buyback scenarios, and the structuring of transactions to maximize tax incentives.

EDUCATION

Juris Doctorate, Pepperdine University School of Law

Bachelor of Science, University of Southern California, Concentration in Real Estate Finance

Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, Pepperdine University

American Institute of Mediation

Member of American Arbitration Association

Admitted to practice in the Federal District Court of the Northern, Eastern, Central, and Southern Districts of California; Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, U.S. Tax Court, U.S. Court of International Trade, U.S. Tax Court, and U.S. Court of Military Appeals

Download a copy of my curriculum vitae.