About
A firm shaped by the companies it represents.
Carter & Vale was founded with a simple conviction: exceptional litigation practice requires both intellectual rigor and practical judgment. From our Los Angeles office, we represent private companies, executives, and business owners in complex disputes where the stakes are significant and the margin for error is small. Our lawyers work closely with clients from the earliest stages of a matter through resolution, combining deep legal experience with a precise understanding of the commercial realities at issue.
Our history
Carter & Vale was founded in 2014 by Daniel Carter and Evelyn Vale, two trial lawyers who shared a vision for a more focused model of business litigation. The firm began with a small team handling complex commercial and partnership disputes throughout Southern California. Over the following years, the practice expanded into real estate litigation, internal investigations, and high-stakes business disputes while deliberately maintaining a selective client base. Today, Carter & Vale remains an independent boutique, preserving the close partner involvement and rigorous preparation that defined the firm from its beginning.
How we work
We begin by understanding the business, relationships, and objectives surrounding a dispute — not simply the legal claims on paper. Each matter is led by experienced attorneys who work directly with the client to identify the decisive issues, assess risk, and develop a strategy built around the desired outcome. We favor clear advice over unnecessary complexity, thorough preparation over reaction, and measured advocacy over noise. Our size allows us to remain responsive and deeply engaged at every stage of a case.
Values
Judgment
We focus on what matters most and distinguish decisive issues from distractions.
Preparation
Strong advocacy begins long before a hearing or trial. We prepare every matter with discipline, precision, and an appreciation for what may come next.
Discretion
Our clients entrust us with sensitive business, financial, and personal matters. We treat that trust as fundamental to the attorney-client relationship.
Candor
We give clients clear assessments — even when the answer is difficult. Good strategy begins with an accurate understanding of risk.
Purpose
Litigation is a means to an end. Our work is guided by the client's broader business and personal objectives, not simply by the pursuit of a legal victory.