The focus of the firm’s practice involves the representation of lenders in real and personal property secured transactions, bankruptcy, litigation, and complex transactions. DUTRA & OATES represents its clients with a view to long-term relationships. The firm has represented a broad range of banks and financial institutions, including community and regional banks, as well as Farm Credit System Institutions. Legal services provided to lenders include documentation of complex loan transactions, problem loan workouts, bankruptcy, commercial litigation including collection actions and lender liability defense. The firm’s experienced attorneys and efficient structure allow it to provide high quality, responsive and cost-effective legal services to its clients.
The members of the firm have significant experience in their respective areas of emphasis.
PAUL J. DUTRA is Of Counsel to the firm. Prior to his retirement, his practice included the areas of real and personal property secured transactions, business law, commercial law, and real property transactions. Mr. Dutra earned his law degree in 1969 from the University of California Davis, School of Law. He served as general counsel for Western Farm Credit Bank for seven years, with responsibility for lending activities in five western states. He is also a licensed real estate broker with the California Bureau of Real Estate. Mr. Dutra enjoys tennis, fly fishing and spending time with his family. He also participates as a volunteer with a number of community based charities.
GLORIA M. OATES has practiced law since 1985. She specializes in commercial lending transactions and commercial litigation, with emphasis on creditor representation, including creditor’s rights in bankruptcy, appointment of receivers, writs of possession, and writs of attachment. Ms. Oates also has extensive experience in appellate practice before the Bankruptcy Appellate Panel, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal and the California Appellate Courts. She is a member of the Business Law Section of the State Bar of California. Her practice also includes the representation of professionals in the acquisition and sale of professional practices, along with legal advice on business and employment issues. She earned her law degree from the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, and was also awarded an undergraduate degree in accounting with honors from Northern Arizona University where she played varsity tennis. In addition to her law credentials, Ms. Oates is certified as an accountant by the Institute of Management Accountants. Ms. Oates enjoys golf and tennis, and has volunteered as a coach for Special Olympics and local high schools. She also served as President of the Sacramento Dental Foundation.
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