From a young age, I knew I wanted to become a lawyer. Long before I had ever met one, based on what I read in books and saw in movies, I believed lawyers were smart people who wore suits and helped others solve serious problems. That idea of helping people when they need it most still drives my work today.”
As a successful trial lawyer, Leonard Sandoval brings experience and compassion to his work as a member of the Weitz & Luxenberg mesothelioma and asbestos team.
In April 2011, when Mr. Sandoval joined W&L, he began representing plaintiffs in asbestos litigation. Since then, his career has been devoted to advocating for families who have lost loved ones far too soon.
Working with Clients Facing Unimaginable Loss
For most of his career, Mr. Sandoval has worked with extraordinary people facing unimaginable loss — spouses who lost partners, children who lost parents, and families forced to navigate life without someone they depended on. Many of his clients lost not just loved ones, but years they should have had together: retirements, anniversaries, and the chance to watch their children and grandchildren grow.
“While the work I do can never get them their loved ones back, I can make sure that they see some semblance of justice and the companies responsible for their loss are held to account,” emphasizes Mr. Sandoval.
Focusing on Trial Work for Asbestos Exposure Victims
He has represented clients across the country and handled every phase of their cases, from start to finish. Since 2017, much of his practice has focused on trial work.
After serving as second chair on several trials, he had the opportunity to lead his first trial in 2022. “That trial remains the proudest moment of my career,” Mr. Sandoval explains.
“After weeks of trial, my team secured a meaningful verdict in favor of our client. It was a powerful reminder of why this work matters and the impact a dedicated legal team can have on the lives of people seeking accountability.”
Mr. Sandoval continues, “I have been trying to replicate that moment ever since — and I intend to spend the rest of my career doing just that: fighting for families, pursuing justice, and making sure their voices are heard.”
Outside the Office
Mr. Sandoval is licensed to practice law in the state of California.
He earned his J.D. from the UCLA School of Law in Los Angeles and his B.A. from California State University, Fullerton. His B.A. was in sociology.
When he’s not working, Mr. Sandoval enjoys spending time with his wife and coterie of pets (four dogs and two cats), traveling the world, cooking, and playing music.
