2022 OCTLA Hall of Fame Inductees

Daniel M. Hodes & Jeffrey A. Milman

As the founding partners of Hodes Milman, Dan Hodes and Jeff Milman have represented victims of medical malpractice in Orange County for more than twenty-five years. Over the course of their careers, their leadership, tenacity, and dedication has resulted in verdicts, awards and settlements for countless victims and their families.  Most recently, Hodes Milman led a team of plaintiff lawyers in obtaining justice for numerous children who were harmed by dental malpractice and fraud resulting in an eight-figure settlement. Additionally, both have been recognized by the Daily Journal, Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, and other publications as preeminent attorneys in their field. Yet, their impact and influence goes far beyond the exceptional results they obtain for their clients, and their desire to leave a lasting influence and legacy goes far beyond the pursuit of professional accolades and financial gain.

Their contributions to the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association over the past twenty plus years have been unrivaled. Dan served as president of OCTLA in 1999 and Jeff served as president in 2004. Dan is remembered for being a fierce advocate and visionary for the organization. Jeff is remembered as one of the most gracious presidents in OCTLA history. Prior to serving as  presidents, both served on the Board of Directors for many years.  Dan and Jeff still regularly contribute to the OCTLA Listserv, providing guidance and wisdom and freely sharing their knowledge with other attorneys.

They have demonstrated a lasting commitment to mentoring future generations of leaders in the Orange County legal community. If we lined up the hundreds of people Dan and Jeff have helped over the years, the line would be long and the stories impactful.  Many describe them as "brilliant litigators, high-caliber individuals, kind, trustworthy, supportive, great mentors, highly-committed, fierce but professional adversaries", and the list goes on.

Here are a few sentiments shared from their mentees and colleagues:

“In my 30+ years of litigation with Dan and Jeff we have always been on opposite sides of the cases. Yet, due to their unwavering integrity and professionalism, I have always felt I was litigating those cases “with” them, not “against” them, in pursuit of a fair and just result.  A lofty purpose toward which we should all strive.”  Dennis K. Ames, Esq., La Follette Johnson DeHaas Fesler and Ames.

“Not only have they provided incredible results in a very difficult field, they have helped forge the next wave of trial lawyers in Orange County.    Jeff and Dan have been an integral part of the plaintiff’s bar and have always lent a helping hand to any attorney who asks for it”.  Ben Ikuta, Esq., Ikuta Hemesath, LLP

“Enormous integrity, a tireless work ethic and discipline, dedication and a level of preparation that are unprecedented and serve as proof of their commitment to helping their clients.”  Val Kelser, Legal Assistant

Dan and Jeff have been guiding forces in my development for almost 15 years. Dan helped open my eyes to the law and all the good that can be done through it when he represented me in my own case. I am forever indebted to them for their support and guidance”. Robbie Munoz, Esq., The Simon Law Group

Unequivocally, Dan and Jeff exemplify and embody the values, vision, and mission of OCTLA, and the organization cannot be more honored to have had them amongst us for so many years.

Without hesitation, Dan and Jeff are welcomed into the OCTLA Hall of Fame.