Jesse Rivera, ’78, has a career that exemplifies dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to justice. After earning his JD from McGeorge School of Law, Rivera began his legal journey at the Sacramento County Public Defender’s Office, where he spent a decade a large number of criminal cases, including serious felonies and homicides. His passion for trial work quickly became evident, as he built a reputation for his expertise in the courtroom.
In 1987, Rivera transitioned to civil litigation at the law firm of Porter, Scott, Weiberg & Delehant, where he further sharpened his trial skills. Since entering private practice, Rivera has become a recognized trial expert, having tried over 100 jury trials, including complex civil rights cases in federal court, construction defect claims, and attorney malfeasance cases. His extensive trial experience has led him to argue before appellate courts, including the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and California’s Third and Fifth District Courts of Appeals.
Rivera’s exceptional track record earned him membership in the prestigious American Board of Trial Advocates in 2007, where he has held leadership positions both locally and nationally. In addition to his trial work, Rivera is an active member of the Sacramento County Bar Association, the Association of Defense Counsel, and the Cruz Reynoso Bar Association of Sacramento. As a fluent Spanish speaker, Rivera has also served as a guest lecturer at McGeorge School of Law and other institutions, sharing his knowledge with the next generation of legal professionals.
Rivera is now a named partner at minority-owned law firm Rivera Hewitt Paul LLP, which prides itself in offering a workplace that reflects the diversity within California. Jesse Rivera’s career is a testament to the power of a McGeorge education and dedication to justice.
Throughout 2024, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law will celebrate members of its vast alumni network in honor of the school’s 100-year anniversary. This post is part of a series highlighting 100 exceptional McGeorge School of Law alumni.
Stay tuned for more blog posts as we celebrate the law school’s centennial anniversary.