About Victor John
Victor John Otten is the senior partner at Otten Law, PC, a boutique law firm located in Chino Hills, California. With over 21 years of experience in the legal field, he specializes in complex civil litigation, focusing on environmental and land use law, real estate law, business law, and criminal defense. His extensive knowledge allows him to navigate intricate legal matters effectively. This gives comprehensive legal solutions tailored to their needs. Mr. Otten earned his Juris Doctor from the University of San Francisco School of Law in 1992, where he developed a solid foundation in legal principles. Prior to that, he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of California at Los Angeles in 1989.
Admitted to the State Bar of California in 1993, he has since built a reputation for excellence in his practice areas. His commitment to the law is evident through his involvement in several high-profile cases, including co-counseling in Silvester v. Harris, 41 F. Supp. 3d 927 (2014). In this landmark case, the court determined that California's 10-day waiting period law for firearm purchases violated the Second Amendment for certain individuals. In addition to his work in Silvester v — Harris, Mr.
Otten co-authored the appellate brief in Michel v. Palos Verdes Network Group, Inc., 156 Cal.App.4th 756 (2007). This case addressed critical issues regarding disclosures in real estate transactions and has been cited in numerous legal treatises, underscoring its significance in the field. Before establishing Otten Law, PC, he worked for Carmen "Nuch" Trutanich, where he concentrated on environmental litigation. His role as Special Counsel at Trutanich-Michel LLP from 2000 to May 2009 further developed his skills, as he managed complex business, environmental, and landlord/tenant matters in both state and federal courts. Beyond his legal practice, Mr. Otten is an active member of the legal community.
He served as Vice Chair of the Legal Committee for the Los Angeles Chapter of the Sierra Club in 2010 and held the position of Chair of the Conservation Legal Committee from 2006 to 2009. His contributions to environmental law have been recognized by his selection as an Environmental Super Lawyer by Southern California Super Lawyers Magazine in both 2009 and 2026. These roles reflect his dedication to environmental advocacy and his commitment to making a positive impact within the community. In his personal life, Mr. Otten resides in Palos Verdes, California, where he enjoys outdoor activities such as surfing and riding his two mules, Jessie and Ruby. His focus on equestrian pursuits extends to his contributions to publications like Equestrian Times and Mules and More Magazine. This blend of professional expertise and personal interests illustrates a well-rounded individual who is deeply engaged both in the legal field and in his community.
