- Became Assistant District Attorney for LA prosecutor’s office directly out of UCLA Law School. One of the most prominent contributors in the famous case against Global Horizons, INC., in which an unprecedented settlement of hundreds of millions of dollars was eventually reached.
- An immaculate prosecution record as city District Attorney from 1989 through 1993.
- The first Mexican-American to be listed as one of the most influential lawyers in the nation by Forbes Magazine.
- Appointed chair of Urban Health Advisory Committee, where he successfully obtained federal funds to expand medical facilities in the poorest regions of the City of Los Angeles.
- Introduced LA County Home Instruction Program for Preschool Youth in 1994, an initiative that helps parents work with their children in education preparedness and literacy.
- A vocal advocate of legislation that expanded health benefits to members of the California National Guard and Reserves and increased state and city funding for the City of Los Angeles Veterans’ Administration.
- Has helped pass legislation that encouraged investment to create jobs in struggling communities through the Renewal Neighborhoods Program.
- An advocate of the Prevention First Act to increase access to family planning.
- Has vocally lobbied Universal Health Care for every man, woman, and child since his election to City Council.