Bullies with a Law Degree

Update as of 10-15-2018 -- The case has been dismissed by both parties.  As we have agreed to move forward, the dismissed case will remain confidential.

What is a Bully?

A person who uses strength or power to harm or intimidate those who are weaker.

What is Bullying?

To use superior strength or influence to intimidate (someone), typically to force him or her to do what one wants.

--- Both definitions from Oxford Dictionaries (oxforddicitonaries.com).

Nowadays, this type of abusive behavior has become a serious problem. This digital era has allowed bullies to cowardly hide behind fake cyber names while verbally attacking, intimidating and threatening others whom they perceive as "weaker" or "inferior."

My Experience with Bullies

Although I was very shy when I was a young child, I cannot really say that I ever got bullied by other kids at school. The truth is that I had never really experienced feeling "bullied" until I started dealing with opposing counsel in this case against Victor Alfieri. I have got to experience intimidation and manipulative tactics by Bullies with a Law Degree. 

It is true that I am representing myself. I have not hired an attorney because I cannot afford one. Victor Alfieri took everything I had. Now his attorneys are trying to get more from me -- or at least, they are trying to intimidate me and take advantage of my lack of legal representation.  

So what qualifies them as "bullies"?  They certainly have strength and power over me --- that power is their law degree and their knowledge of the California Judicial System. They shield themselves behind the "confidentiality of the case"  They use that as an excuse to bully me and to intimidate me.
I believe that it is my duty to speak out, to tell the truth about what these attorneys have done and continue doing. This specific post is my contribution to stopping this type of bullying. I know I am not the only one who has gone through an experience such as this.  I hope this post inspires those who have felt helpless in similar situations when dealing with the legal system on their own -- those who have opted to not fight or to give up due to their apparent disadvantageous position.  Please read on. 

I will only cover what attorney Jason L. Fisher has said during our conversations, what he has done or said in open court and the documents he filed. The current arbitration process is to be kept strictly confidential. I will NOT be revealing any details related to such process. I will not be disclosing any information about the attorney retained to handle this arbitration either. The only thing I will say, is that this attorney uses a friendlier and more respectful approach. It might be because this attorney is a female and can somehow relate to what I have been through.

As to what has happened in court and all the documents filed, everything is public. If you are interested in getting copies of the documents filed in court, please go to  LA COURT CASE SUMMARY and enter case BC542748. I will be sharing some specific details about what attorney Jason L. Fisher has done while handling this case. I swear that all the statements I am about to make are true to the best of my knowledge and recollection.

As I mentioned before, this case filed in Los Angeles Superior Court is public, so are the hearings and what was said during those court appearances.  I also have the right to voice my opinion --- I have Freedom of Speech.

Los Angeles Superior Court - Summary

I filed my lawsuit against Victor Alfieri on April 15, 2014. The first phone call I received from Jason L. Fisher informing me he had been retained by Alfieri was on May 16, 2014. We had an amicable conversation during which I agreed to give him more time to file a response.  That was the only friendly conversation we would ever have.

On May 30, 2014, Jason Fisher filed over 100 pages worth of documents -- Demurrer to Complaint, Motion to Strike, Proposed Order for the Demurrer and the Motion to Strike.  Yes, over 100 pages!!!  His Demurrer and Motion to Strike basically stated that the case should be dealt in arbitration.  Why wouldn't Mr. Fisher save all that time he spent drafting these documents and simply demand arbitration???

Mr. Fisher used derogatory language to describe me and labeled my allegations as "fictional."  This is an excerpt from the Motion to Strike he filed on May 30, 2014.

"However, ascertaining that basic information from the frivolous and long-winded Verified Complaint of plaintiff nearly amounts to act of futility.  The Plaintiff chose to use the California judicial system to publicize her scornful account of an alleged personal relationship.  Plaintiff's misplaced focus on irrelevant absurdities and overtly emotionally charged fictional allegations that are completely improper and immaterial has made a Motion to Strike by Defendants proper, if not necessary."

Apparently Mr. Fisher ignored the fact that my complaint was a VERIFIED complaint. I had sworn that everything contained there was true, under the penalty of perjury.  So, Mr. Fisher was calling me a liar and claiming my complaint had "irrelevant absurdities" when, in fact, such absurdities were quotes from Victor Alfieri himself, from his deposition -- which are part of an official transcript.  He also, just like Alfieri, claimed that I had made "fictional" allegations of having a relationship with Alfieri.

I have worked as an interpreter in the courts (both State and Federal) for about 20 years. I have translated hundreds, if not thousands, of orders, motions, petitions and other legal documents. And I had never seen a document drafted by an attorney that labeled the allegations as "fictional," "irrelevant" or "absurd."  I have certainly heard those words during opening and closing arguments/statements in a trial or during motions... but never as a response to a complaint.   I believe that Mr. Fisher's choice of words and length of his documents were intended to intimidate me --- which is something attorneys are supposed to do.  I am aware of it.

A colleague of mine has assured me that such language is common in court filings in California. However, I believe that those specific words that attorney Jason Fisher chose were charged with hostility -- such hostility was evident when he and I met in person for the first time.

On August 18, 2014 - We had an Ex-Parte Protective Order Hearing.  That order was granted because the judge did not take the bench. I was not even able to oppose to that order. I was expected to submit my response in writing. Please read  "The Soul of the Judicial System" .  I talked to Jason Fisher on the phone at 4:30 pm the day before this hearing. I asked him if he could give me a copy of what he was filing because all I got from him was a simple notice. He responded that I would get a copy the following day at 8:30 am, that we could discuss it then in front of the judge.  Mr. Fisher knew this judge did not take the bench for this type of motions. How do I know this? Because the clerk told me that Mr. Fisher had called the previous day. She also told me that I should have called too to ask if I needed to respond in writing.

On August 22, 2014 -- Attorney Jason Fisher sent me a threatening letter demanding I dismiss the lawsuit against Daniela Carloni, Victor Alfieri's mother.  

"Irrespective of meritless claim(s) advanced, we are bewildered by your apparent belief that you can sue Ms. Carloni here in California, and invite to contact our office to explain under what rule or legal theory you believe you can maintain a lawsuit against a foreign citizen that resides abroad with no connection to the forum state. We would request you immediately dismiss Ms. Carloni with prejudice, and if so, we believe our client will agree to a waiver of costs. Otherwise, we will pursue recovery of costs and attorney fees against you incurred in having Ms. Carloni dismissed from this matter."

Apparently Mr. Fisher's main strategy has been to threaten to recover attorney's fees from me.  He used this strategy in court and the judge clearly told him there were no credible reasons for which he could claim those fees. 

Do I believe Daniela Carloni played a role in this???? Absolutely. She was also the one who would beg me to call Victor back in June 2011, after we had broken up. She would call me via Skype, every single day. She would say to me, "Victor needs you. He loves you. He just doesn't know how to show it. Please don't abandon him."  I would then contact Victor. He would tell me (via text) to leave him alone.  I was clearly being set up for harassment. 

On November 9, 2014 -- I filed an amended complaint in which Daniela Carloni and Black Knight Entertainment were no longer defendants. I decided to drop Daniela Carloni from the complaint because I knew how complicated it would be to keep her as a defendant not because my allegations against her were meritless.  A couple of weeks later, Mr. Fisher emailed me a letter asking me to formally dismiss the claim against Daniela Carloni.  He attached the Request for Dismissal for me to sign and mail back to him. I noticed that it stated that I would be dismissing WITH prejudice -- which means I could never sue Daniela Carloni for these allegations ever again.  Why would I do that? And what type of manipulative attorney would do something like that???  When I had not returned those requests signed as he demanded, Mr. Fisher wrote to me and again threatened to seek recovery of costs and attorney's fees from me --- as if he had the right to do so.

"Thank you for your email.  The requests for dismissal were completed for you and required nothing more than your signature.  Kindly execute and return them to my office via email as you stated you would, so I can ensure they are filed promptly.  If I do not get the dismissals back from you very soon, I may have to take further action concerning those two parties, and then would have to pursue recovery of those costs/expenses incurred from you.  I would rather avoid unnecessary steps, and chasing you for money, so please sign and return both dismissal forms to me this week."

The only reason Jason Fisher offered to file the dismissals for me was to ensure that they were dismissed with prejudice. Mr. Fisher knows that if I had an attorney, I would never be advised to dismiss with prejudice.  I believe he was basically trying to trick me into doing what he wanted. I filled out my own request forms for the dismissal without prejudice and filed them in court.  Mr. Fisher was not very happy and demanded an explanation as to why my dismissal was without prejudice.

On December 10, 2014 -- Mr. Fisher filed another Demurrer and Motion to Strike my Amended Complaint. This time they were only 50 pages total.  However, Mr. Fisher got even more vicious with the adjectives and labels he used to describe me and my complaint.

"Plaintiff improperly used a 41 page Complaint, reading much like a bad romance novel, to publicize her scornful account of and bitterness over an alleged relationship."

It is interesting that Mr. Fisher kept calling my relationship with Alfieri an "alleged" relationship when Alfieri himself stated that we were VERY CLOSE friends during his deposition. Jason Fisher dared to also call my supporting facts "tales."   

On January 22, 2015 -  We had our Demurrer Hearing. In his motion, Mr. Fisher wrote:

"The issues raised in Plaintiff's FAC. unambiguously fall squarely and exclusively within the purview and language of the Production Financing Agreement arbitration clause that requires the parties to resolve all such disputes via binding arbitration."

The Demurrer was sustained mainly based on that arbitration clause.  But why would Jason Fisher refuse to stipulate to arbitration when that was what he was fighting for?  I remember the judge asking him, "Why wouldn't you stipulate to arbitration?  Isn't that what you wanted?" Please read the post "Turning a Loss Into a Win"  for the whole story.  Bottom line -  Attorney Jason L. Fisher did all this work to this point, expecting to win, to have the case dismissed and to recover attorney's fees from me.  If that was not the case and he was being paid by Alfieri, why would he refuse to accept service of the Demand for Arbitration and claim he is not Alfieri's attorney? 

On March 17, 2015

We appeared in court to give an update on the arbitration process. Please read the post Lies, Negligence, or Memory Loss? for complete story on what happened during this hearing.   I wrote it on March 19.  A day or two after I published this post, I received a call -- (the following exchange between Jason Fisher and I is NOT verbatim.  It is paraphrased but written as a conversation to make it easier to read).

A - Hello? This is Adriana.
J - This is attorney Jason Fisher.
A - Hi Jason, how are you?
J - I am calling because I heard about a blog.
A - My blog? You read it?
J - It is my understanding that my name and my law firm have been mentioned.
A - Yes, that is right. I wrote about what happened in court and how you lied to the judge. 
......
J - I am calling to ask you to take down that blog.
A- The blog?  I am not taking down my blog. And I will not take that specific post down either. You know I am telling the truth.
.....
J - This has nothing to do with me. The problem you have is with Victor Alfieri and not with me.
A - Actually, I DO have a problem with people who lie to a judge in open court.
----
A -  I will not delete that post. But what I can do is omit your name and just leave it as "Alfieri's attorney."

And that is what I did. I removed his name and kept it off my blog until recently. Why did I change my mind?  Because I FEEL that Jason L. Fisher and his law firm, Fisher Law, have "bullied" me and continue to do so. I believe that this type of conduct should not be tolerated.  Mr. Fisher has a law degree and knowledge of the court system in California. I don't have such degree. But what I do have is my voice.  

After four years dealing with this "court drama," I feel that I have gotten into this legal battle for a bigger reason -- to bring awareness of how abusive and manipulative opposing counsel can be toward a party that proceeds "pro per" in civil court. 

Bullying and unfair abusive treatment must be reported.  Nothing will change if we pretend it is not happening and ignore this issue.   Let's stop BULLYING behavior. Let's stand up and speak out. We all have the right to feel safe, respected and honored.

Disclaimer – As of October 15, 2018, all legal issues have been resolved. This resolution was reached during arbitration. There are no pending issues related to fraud or theft. The resolution was mutually agreeable. There will be no more posts written about this story.

Making Peace

Update as of 10-15-2018 -- The Trevino vs. Alfieri case has been dismissed by both parties.  As we have agreed to move forward, the dismissed case will remain confidential.

---

This is a continuation of my previous post The Ripple Effect. I dedicate this post to CV -- a kind-hearted man who will no longer have the opportunity to give his side of the story.  My original intention in writing this post was to act as CV's voice and clear his name as this chapter of his life closed. Out of respect to him and his family, I waited enough time to write anything about this and have kept his name and details of the events confidential.

I firmly believe that Alfieri falsely accused CV of physical assault. How do I know the accusation was false? Did I witness this incident? No, I was not there and was not a witness. So how can I claim that Alfieri made a false accusation?

Well, let's not forget that Alfieri shamelessly accused me of theft and slander while he was the one who defrauded and defamed me.  It does not surprise me that he would make stories about others. Just a month or two after he sued me in September 2011, he filed a harassment order against the former co-director/editor of "Looking for Clarissa" claiming she tried to push his Porsche off the road while driving at high speed on Santa Monica Blvd (Century City/Beverly Hills area). First of all, when can anyone drive fast on Santa Monica Blvd in that area of town? Second, he was the one who was driving the Porsche, wasn't he? And the most recent legal claim made by Alfieri that I am aware of was against his own Homeowners Association. I was told that Alfieri lost that lawsuit.

It is clear to me that Alfieri feels that he can use the "law" to try to intimidate or get money from the opposing party.  The problem here is that Alfieri uses outrageous untrue allegations to build "his case." These stories built on ridiculous lies eventually collapse.

It is true that I am still dealing with Alfieri and his unwillingness to take responsibility for what he has done. But my case is only a civil matter. What CV had to face were criminal charges that could have potentially meant time in jail. Although CV was clearly innocent, it is undeniable that he was scared and stressed as he awaited his trial.

I really do not want to get into specifics about what happened between CV and Alfieri. It does not really matter any more.  All I need to say is that CV was not aggressive or confrontational. On the contrary, he would always offer a smile to everyone with whom he interacted. CV was someone who saw the good in people and believed in generosity and forgiveness.  He did not assault Alfieri, nor did he want to continue having any conflict with him.

There was an opportunity to settle the case without going to trial. CV happily accepted the opportunity while Alfieri had the audacity to add even more fabricated lies to his previous version of the facts.

All CV wanted was to make peace, as he said to me, he just wanted to shake Victor's hand, be cordial to each other... and live in harmony.



It is unfortunate that the unfair stress to which he was subjected was what eventually took a toll on his health. He developed an ulcer that led him to the Emergency Room. The next morning, he passed away.

Our words, actions... even our thoughts and intentions touch everyone around us -- EVERYONE --  especially those who are targeted as recipients of such words, actions or thoughts.

Let's live with awareness and treat others with respect, compassion and kindness. We are mirrors of one another. What we give, we receive.  Let's choose peace over war and conflict... And let's first make peace with ourselves so we can extend it to everyone else.

May CV's soul rest in peace. His memory and spirit will remain with us forever.

Disclaimer – As of October 15, 2018, all legal issues (Trevino vs. Alfieri) have been resolved. This resolution was reached during arbitration. There are no pending issues (Trevino vs. Alfieri) related to fraud or theft. The resolution was mutually agreeable. There will be no more posts written about this story.

The Ripple Effect

Update as of 10-15-2018 -- The case has been dismissed by both parties.  As we have agreed to move forward, the dismissed case will remain confidential.

---

Around mid-September 2014, I received a phone call at home. I rarely answer my home phone because most of the calls are from telemarketers. This time I checked the caller id display and realized the call was from a local Los Angeles number. I decided to pick up, "Hello?" "Could I speak with Adriana Trevino?" asked the voice on the other end of the phone. "This is she," I replied. "I read your webpage," he said. "You mean, my blog?" I clarified.

He said he had read some of my posts and felt really bad for what Victor Alfieri had done to me. I told him that I was okay and he should not feel bad for me. He also told me that his attorney had found some of my YouTube videos and my blog on line. Attorney? I asked him if I had mentioned him on any of my posts and offered to remove his name. He then told me that Victor Alfieri had accused him of hitting him with a brush and that there was a trial scheduled.

He told me his name. For now, I will only use his initials, CV. At this point I knew who he was and what he was talking about. In January 2014, TMZ published " 'Bold & Beautiful' Star - I Was Attacked With a Hairbrush," and " Bold & Beautiful Star GETS BRUSH OFF FROM JUDGE." Victor claimed that CV had beat him in the face, had relentlessly harassed him and had threatened to put him in the hospital.  The judge granted Victor a restraining order that would keep CV at least 3 yards away from Victor - not farther, as they lived in the same building.  That is why, just as a way to poke fun at the ridiculous allegations made by Alfieri I served him court papers with a hairbrush so he could "protect" himself from future attacks. Please read The Service to learn how Victor got served and to watch the video "A Brush With the LAW."

CV told me that things did not happen the way Victor had said they did.  I was not surprised when I heard that. I know how Victor can twist the truth and use the court system to his advantage while making sure that his delusional claims get as much publicity as possible. Now that I look at Victor's allegations against CV, it is clear that Victor follows a pattern.

According to Victor Alfieri...

         CV                                                            Me
Attacked him with a brush                     Attacked him with slander
Relentlessly harassed him                      Relentlessly SEXUALLY harassed him
Threatened to put him in hospital          Threatened to call the FBI and put him in jail forever

Then, what did Victor do (or continues to do) against CV and me?

          CV's case                                                 My case
Gave false statements to authorities       Made false allegations in court papers
Got police and courts involved              Got courts and attorneys involved
Leaked the news to the media                Leaked the news to the media
Refuses to tell the truth                          Refuses to tell the truth

It is a fact that Victor Alfieri made up crazy stories about me. His slanderous allegations, which were published all over the internet, damaged my reputation and have cost me hundreds of thousands of dollars in business.  CV asked me if I would be willing to testify in his trial. My testimony would be solely as to Victor Alfieri's character, not to what actually took place during the "alleged" incident. I would simply testify about Victor's manipulative and dishonest behavior. I would testify how Victor has used the justice system and the media to attack me and try to ruin my reputation. He clearly wanted to intimidate me and "persuade" me into walking away from my investment.

So... would I be willing to testify?  Of course I would. I agreed to become a witness even before CV told me his side of the story. I told CV that I knew of another person who would certainly make a great witness. Victor's crazy fabricated stories about this person made it all the way to the court docket as well.  As I stated before, Victor has a pattern -- he claims to be victimized by somebody who has "attacked" or harassed him because that person is probably "obsessed" with him. Then he uses law enforcement and/or court resources to threaten and intimidate this "alleged" attacker, not without getting enough media coverage in the process.

CV and I met in person and talked on the phone several times. As we shared our stories, we could not help but notice so many similarities. He was born and raised in Minnesota. I lived in Minnesota for the last 20 years. We even had friends in common! We developed a friendship quickly.

CV had a scheduled pretrial hearing on Monday March 30th. I told him I would go to court with him. But I did not go to court with CV. Why? Because that hearing did not take place.  It was not because Victor Alfieri decided to tell the truth and get the charges dropped but because CV did not make it to that hearing. He passed away on February 19, 2015. Please read my post Making Peace to learn more about what really happened and how his passing is directly connected to all these events.

Most of us are familiar with the term "Ripple Effect."  Merriam-Webster defines it as a situation in which one event causes a series of other events to happen. And what about "The Butterfly Effect"? -- the scientific theory that one single occurrence, no matter how small, can forever change the course of the universe.

If even the smallest occurrence can have an impact somewhere on the other side of the world, then we can logically conclude that more significant events would for sure change the course of the universe.  What Victor Alfieri has done to me and others is no small thing. His actions have undoubtedly affected our lives -- and the universe, for that matter.

It is possible that Victor finds his creative "tales" very clever and even amusing. However, all actions carry consequences. You cannot go around making false accusations and defaming others and expect no consequences. You will either encounter someone who will fight back or someone who will be unfairly punished. I am fortunately someone who decided not to be a victim. I fought back and continue fighting for justice.  This does not mean that I am in this battle for the simple reason of  fighting. I have always been open to letting this go if Victor were to come clean and tell the truth. It is that simple.

CV, on the other hand, was someone who was unfairly punished and suffered the consequences of Victor's malicious and irresponsible actions.  Please read Making Peace. What is shocking to me is that there are still so many people around Victor that see what he does and opt to say or do nothing about it. It is like watching an injured person lying in the middle of the road while riding in the car with a reckless crazy driver who deliberately speeds up to run this injured person over. It is true you are not the driver. But you are right there. You know this fatality is about to happen and choose to stay quiet and do nothing. Does that make you an accomplice?.... You tell me.

Even the smallest occurrence will create an endless ripple.  Everything we do impacts the whole world. Our actions, thoughts and intentions will touch every single human being on this planet. Before we move forward, let's choose to walk on a path built on honesty and integrity. Before we open our mouth, let's choose our words wisely and compassionately. And let's not forget that everything starts with thoughts, with intention. If what we put out in the universe is generosity, gratitude, kindness and love, then that is the ripple that we are sending out to the rest of the world -- and that is also what will eventually come back to us.

Disclaimer – As of October 15, 2018, all legal issues have been resolved. This resolution was reached during arbitration. There are no pending issues related to fraud or theft. The resolution was mutually agreeable. There will be no more posts written about this story.

Trust

Update as of 10-15-2018 -- The case has been dismissed by both parties.  As we have agreed to move forward, the dismissed case will remain confidential.

----

Trust is something we all consider valuable.  Trust is fundamental in the creation and building of any type of relationship. I found countless quotes about "trust." Some had an author, such as the following:

"Love all, trust a few." 

--- William Shakespeare

 "The best way to find out of you can trust somebody is to trust them."   

---- Ernest Hemingway 

"Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters 

cannot be trusted with important matters." 

--- Albert Einstein

"The trust of the innocent is the liar's most useful tool."  

--- Stephen King

What is Trust?  

Google gives a very concise and clear definition --

Firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something.

Although it sounds simple, it is the most powerful element needed to build and sustain any type of relationship. When I think about my past relationships, both professional and personal, it becomes more evident that without trust, a relationship CANNOT survive.

Trust Issues

A strong friendship and business relationship I have with someone was put to the test recently. After this test, our relationship suffered but eventually survived after we had an honest and open conversation. The main issue in the relationship was "trust."

During this period of time, the lack of effective communication between us created conflict. This friend grew so untrusting to the point that he became paranoid about my intentions. In the past, we had shared with each other some stories about other people whom we had a hard time trusting. I would always tell him to ask questions when in doubt instead of making assumptions and creating stories. I told him that not making assumptions had saved many of my relationships.


We met at a restaurant last week. The first thing he said as he sat down at the table was, "are you recording this conversation?" He made me show my cell phone and then demanded I put it away. I was thinking "wow, he has become really paranoid."

What was shocking is how familiar this situation seemed to me... just as when Victor Alfieri became paranoid and started to create bizarre stories about me and others involved in the production of our film.

So it is not surprising that Victor Alfieri was brought up into our conversation. "I would love to hear his side of the story," he said. I told him to simply visit this blog and read the story if he wished. He responded that he had done so and had googled me. "And it doesn't make you look good," he added. I quickly said "I don't care what your opinion is. I did what felt right for me. I told the TRUTH."

I will not deny I got very upset with that comment. I will also admit that it was not true that I did not care about his opinion. Of course I cared. We all care about what our friends or colleagues think of us. It is based on those opinions that we act upon, that we treat others and that we build solid relationships. What I really meant to say was, "I have no control over your opinion. I did what felt right for me. I told the TRUTH. And it really hurts to hear you have such a low image of me.... and that you do not trust me."

I am aware that his statements and accusations are a reflection of himself and his own fears - and they have NOTHING to do with me.  We can only see the negative traits in others that exist in our own reality - either something we have and want to hide or something we have witnessed or have endured as a "victim." I wonder to what type of betrayal he has been subjected, what experiences have scarred him in such a way that he has a hard time trusting anyone.

Fortunately we were eventually able to work out all the differences and misunderstandings.  He has opted to trust again... And so have I. After this incident our friendship has gotten stronger. We have made the pact to always communicate openly with the each other.

Should We Trust Others?

Yes!!! We should.  Even if they betray us??  Yes! I am not saying that if someone is a compulsive liar and has proven unreliable again and again, we should "trust" them with important and vital decisions we make in life. That is why we have common sense, right? But we can extend our trust to them from one human to another, by encouraging them to believe in themselves - believe that they can do better and can keep their word.  We reflect TRUST on one another.  If we trust, we are more likely to be trusted. If we distrust, we will probably get the same in return.

You may be deceived if you trust too much, 

but you will live in torment if you don't trust enough."

 --- Frank Crane

"Our distrust is very expensive." 

--- Ralph Waldo Emerson

"It is an equal failing to trust everybody, and to trust nobody." 

--- English Proverb

"It is impossible to go through life without trust; 

that is to be imprisoned in the worst cell of all, oneself."  

--- Graham Greene

As Cardinal De Retz states, "a man who doesn't trust himself can never really trust anyone else." In other words, it all starts with ourselves. How can I trust anyone else when I cannot trust the person closest to me -- my SELF?

"As soon as you trust yourself, 

you will know how to live." 

---Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

Respect cannot survive without trust. Love cannot be expressed in the absence of trust. Trust, as Stephen Covey puts it, "is the glue of life. It's the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It's the foundational principle of all relationships," including the relationship we have with ourselves.

Many say that trust is earned just as respect. I disagree. I believe that trust is a choice. It is a choice that starts with self-trust. Let's have trust in ourselves, in our intuition, in knowing that we always have the answer we are seeking and can make the right decisions in life if we listen to our soul. Let's pay it forward and extend this gift of TRUST to everyone around us. Let's create a wave of trust through forgiveness, compassion and kindness towards others.

Disclaimer – As of October 15, 2018, all legal issues have been resolved. This resolution was reached during arbitration. There are no pending issues related to fraud or theft. The resolution was mutually agreeable. There will be no more posts written about this story.

Turning a Loss into a Win

Update as of 10-15-2018 -- The case has been dismissed by both parties.  As we have agreed to move forward, the dismissed case will remain confidential.

---

About three weeks ago, I had a Case Management Conference hearing. During that hearing we were to deal with the Demurrer filed by Victor's attorney, and Motion to Strike portions of my Complaint. Jason Fisher, Alfieri's attorney, had changed the date from January 29th to January 22nd, a week earlier, giving me very little time to file my opposition to his two motions filed on December 12, 2014.  I had  until January 8th - only 26 days to respond. And these 26 days included 14 days I spent in Mexico during the holidays. So basically, I had a little over one week to prepare my opposition and what I was to present and say in court.

It is true that I am representing myself in this case. Hiring an attorney would cost me a fortune. I have  fortunately managed to pay some money to an attorney to prepare and go over the complaint and the opposition to the demurrer. I also asked a friend of mine who is also an attorney and a former judge to give me advise on how to address the court. He told me that he presided hundreds of hearings. He added that, because I was representing myself, it was important to show myself as a "human being."   He helped me prepare the following "speech."

Your Honor,
I am aware this court handles many cases of greater importance and significance than mine. I feel fortunate to be here in front of you at this time to address the motion filed which is to challenge any defects of my complaint and the issue of subject matter jurisdiction. 
Your Honor, my amended complaint sets out facts that are consistent with the causes of action and furthermore are alleged in accordance with the California Civil Procedure Code. I've listed the elements of each cause of action and drafted the complaint in accordance, eliminating any uncertainty or ambiguity.  There is particularity and specificity with respect to all claims, and all provide sufficient information as to clearly state a cause of action. 
Victor Alfieri and Bondolini Productions filed a lawsuit against me based on the production financing agreement and I ask the court to find that defendants have waived their right to arbitration. 
Your Honor, I am here today without counsel because Victor Alfieri has taken my life's savings of  $150,000. That was all the money I had in the world. He took the last $17,500 of my money to hire counsel to sue me. 
Your Honor, I know of nowhere to turn except to this court -- so I might, during discovery, bring all the proof needed to demonstrate fraud beyond clear and convincing evidence and that the money taken from me was for defendant’s personal use. 
As the pleadings allege, Victor Alfieri started a romantic relationship with me for no other reason than to secure my life's savings. He claimed to love me and further claimed that starting a production company as partners, would be a way that would allow the two of us to grow in our relationship and assure financial stability for the rest of our lives. 
Defendant never had any ambition of owning a production company or producing a movie. Most all of my money was used for Victor’s personal benefit. 
After giving Victor my life's savings, which he assured was all that he needed -- as it is also reflected in the contract -- he later writes and tells me he needs another $131,000 stating, "no money, no movie.” 
Your Honor, if the court requires I amend the pleadings, I will comply. However, your Honor, I ask that you allow me the opportunity to go forward with this case so that I can collect the necessary evidence and prevail.  He took every dime I had, your honor, and Victor has a pattern of this sort of behavior. 

So the day arrives. I ask my friend Christine to go to court with me. We arrive very early and check in.  I am nervous. I have been to court hundreds of times -- literally HUNDREDS of times --  but as a certified court interpreter, not a plaintiff in PRO PER.

Christine's presence calms me down. She tells me that everything will be okay. I then close my eyes and think of what Marianne Williamson always tells us to do in stressful and challenging situations such as this -- "Before you enter, blast everyone in the room with love."

We sit in the courtroom while all the other cases are called. I get to see how pleasant and fair the judge is to the other parties when handling their cases.  I am feeling much better. My case finally gets called. I approach and sit at a table facing the judge. Attorney Jason Fisher, is to my right. He does not even dare to look at me directly.

I have met and worked with over one thousand attorneys. This is not an exaggeration - over one thousand. And I can assert that Jason L. Fisher is the rudest lawyer I have ever met in my entire life. He refused to shake my hand when I extended it to him the first time we met in person. He does not respond to my emails or phone calls. So I am not surprised with how things unfolded during this hearing.

The judge states that her tentative ruling is to sustain the demurrer and send the case to arbitration. She then starts reading each cause of action, giving a reason why the demurrer is sustained. "As to Cause of Action 1, Fraud in the Inducement... it lacks... does not state specific... demurrer is sustained. As to Cause of Action 2... Cause of Action 3... 4... 5... 6... 7... demurrer is sustained."

I cannot believe that none of the causes survived the "demurrer" since the complaint and opposition to the demurrer were drafted and reviewed by several attorneys. None of the causes of action is properly pled???!!!  But what is more surprising to me is how calm I am. I feel this inner peace and stillness that is hard to explain.

The judge looks at us and asks if there is something we would like to say. Jason Fisher is quiet and looking down avoiding the judge's eyes. I say, "I don't know if he wants to say something first," referring to opposing counsel. The judge quickly answers, "he does not have to say anything. He won. You lost... So anything you want to say?"

At this point I am just looking at the piece of paper with my prepared speech. I cannot really read that now. I just lost, as the judge clearly stated. I do address the court and state that the first cause of action, Fraud in the Inducement goes beyond the contract containing the arbitration clause. I say something like this , "there was an agreement and promise made by Alfieri to start a production company together in July 2010. We were planning on making several movies. The first movie was 'Arturo Bond,' whose main character is Arturo Bondolini - that's why the name, Bondolini Productions. I invested money in that movie project first. By September 2010, I had already invested $60,000 into that specific movie - seven months before the production financing agreement with the arbitration clause was signed.  We did not produce "Arturo Bond," but decided to make a different film, 'Phoenix.' This film was not produced either. We then decided to make 'Looking for Clarissa.'  The false promise I am talking about is the production company. I was induced to invest in this last movie based on the false promise of a production company."

The judge looks interested in what I am saying. She says, "where is that stated in your complaint?" I read a couple of paragraphs from my amended complaint that do not cover what I am trying to convey. Because I was told by several attorneys to shorten my original 42 page complaint, my amended complaint does not have that specific information and dates that now I desperately need.

The judge then asks, "what is the reason why you don't want to go to arbitration?" I politely answer, "because it is my understanding that fraud allegations cannot be handled in arbitration." To what she responds, "that is not true. Fraud is handled in arbitration" just as it is handled in court. My eyes light up, "really?" I say with an evident tone of surprise in my voice. "She then goes to explain how arbitration works, that some arbitrators are former judges, that we get to choose our arbitrator.

Mr. Fisher says that he told me about arbitration over the phone, making it sound that he had been polite and tried to settle this before filing all those motions - which is a complete lie. In fact, that initial phone call was the ONLY conversation we had and it sounded to me more like "this is war" than anything else.

Attorney Jason Fisher starts going on and on about my refusal to go to arbitration, about the -- as he puts it -- "exorbitant" number of hours he put into writing those motions. Again, trying to make me look like an unreasonable person who filed this complaint with malice and in bad faith.

The judge points out that it is understandable I would not believe what he was telling me as he is the opposing attorney. Why would I trust him? Why would I follow any legal advise he could offer? Then she looks at me with so much compassion in her eyes and asks me, "why are you so scared to go to arbitration?" I say, "because for the first cause of action, Fraud in the Inducement, I could be awarded punitive damages - something that cannot be considered in arbitration."

The judge is now looking at me directly, being as impartial as required by her position but unable to hide her kindness and concern. "Don't be scared. All those things will be dealt with in arbitration." She adds that arbitration is pretty much like trials in court, but much more informal.

The judge looks satisfied that the case will be taken to arbitration. She then says that the case will be stayed, both parties will stipulate to arbitration, and that the case will be dismissed after arbitration is completed. Attorney Jason Fisher states that they will not agree to that stipulation, "Isn't arbitration what you wanted, counsel?" the judge asks puzzled. Mr. Fisher clarifies that I should pursue arbitration on my own and gives a series of reasons why they want the case dismissed immediately. While he is saying this, the judge is looking at me directly as I gently shake my head and non-verbally plead to her to PLEASE SAY NO to his request. I bet my facial expression is communicating something like. "please don't abandon me now. Don't throw me to the wolves. They will devour me."

The judge denies that request stating that she will not make me pay another filing fee if I were to bring the case back to court to compel arbitration. She then says that she would like the two parties to appear in person in a couple of months to give her an update on arbitration. At this point, I am aware I lost this hearing because the demurrer was sustained but I feel relieved. I feel protected by the judicial system. I still have a chance to prove my case in arbitration and get the justice I'm seeking.

The judge then looks at me and asks what day we would like to come back. "In two months?.... what about.... St. Patrick's Day?"  I respond, "that date works for me, your Honor. " As we are ready to finish the hearing, the judge asks if there is anything additional from either party. Attorney Jason L. Fisher decides to open his mouth and make additional demands.

From this point on, I say NOTHING. I am just listening to Jason Fisher talk now. I feel I am watching a bizarre show. I am witnessing as Mr. Fisher picks up a shovel and starts to dig himself in a hole. "You Honor, we would like the case dismissed at this time."  The judge says that the case is stayed for now,  that the demurrer is sustained, that I will not be allowed to amend my complaint and that the case will be dismissed after arbitration is finalized. Attorney Jason Fisher repeats several times that he wants this case immediately dismissed so his client can have peace of mind and can put this behind him.  The judge reiterates that the case will be eventually dismissed. To what this attorney quickly responds that due to the dismissal, they will be asking for attorneys fees to be paid by Plaintiff (me).

Now the judge looks upset and says, "you're overreaching, counsel." Jason Fisher starts saying that there are REASONS why the opposing party is entitled to payment of attorney's fees. The judge interrupts, "not for any credible reasons that I know." Jason Fisher keeps on talking. I really don't understand why. He is already in a big hole.... and still digging, deeper and deeper.

It is so clear to me, and probably to everyone in this courtroom, that this attorney is expecting to get paid by me, not by Alfieri. Now I understand why his motions and responses are so ridiculously long. Of course they are! He has to justify the "exorbitant" amount of work he has put into this, so he can demand $70,000 -$80,000 in attorney's fees from me. He also wants to be "off" the case. That is why he is asking to have this case dismissed immediately.

Before the hearing is adjourned the judge states that we will be coming back to court on March 17th at 8:30 am, and that I will be allowed to AMEND my complaint if necessary.  That is, as I understand it, if Alfieri refuses to go to arbitration.  So in the end, this apparent loss has turned into a WIN.

There is truly no such thing as a "loss" or a "failure." I believe that when we apparently "fail" at something, we are simply being offered an opportunity - an opportunity to let go of what has not worked out for us, what we no longer need. It is also a turning point to choose a different path to explore exciting new possibilities. And sometimes, all we have to do is to not resist it and let it be. The situation might take a sharp turn, transforming that initial loss into a triumphant win.

Disclaimer – As of October 15, 2018, all legal issues have been resolved. This resolution was reached during arbitration. There are no pending issues related to fraud or theft. The resolution was mutually agreeable. There will be no more posts written about this story.

Index of Posts

Index of Posts published in 2019 and forward.  For older posts, please scroll down.

1. Looking for My Mother --  And the quest continues.


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Update as of 10-15-2018 -- The Trevino vs. Alfieri case has been dismissed by both parties.  As we have agreed to move forward, the dismissed case will remain confidential.

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While filming in Rome

I have been told by many readers that it is difficult to find older posts. The search tool is not as effective. So that is why I decided to write this specific post - a post that will make it easier to interact with this blog.

The following are the posts which are part of this blog. They are listed chronologically, by date of release, and some include a very brief description. Just click on the title and you will be taken to that specific post.

1. Scandal, Lawsuit and... Settlement? - Introduction to this blog. It includes pictures and web links.
2. Telling the Truth - Portions of the transcription of my deposition.
3. Dismissal of My Lawsuit - Why did I dismiss it?
4. Was I a Victim of Fraud? - Originally written on January 6, 2013 and updated April 14, 2013. Was fraud committed?
5. Attorneys, Litigation and the Legal System - Attorneys and the legal system... another saga in itself.
6. Why Did Victor Alfieri Sue Me? - Alfieri himself gives the reasons he sued during his deposition. This blog includes a video clip of the deposition and Alfieri's complaint against me.
7. What Truly Prompted the Lawsuit - This post includes actual emails and text messages.
8. Letter to Victor Alfieri's Mother - Letter to Daniela Carloni in both English and Italian.
9. Why Did Victor Alfieri Dismiss the Lawsuit? - The real reason why he dismissed his lawsuit. It includes one video. This post also includes my original cross-complaint.
10. Fighting Back - This post includes my Amended Cross-Complaint with details and new facts.
11. Speaking Up - Why I decided to speak up. Includes one video.
12. Slander, Libel and Defamation - Who slandered and defamed whom?
13. Filming in Italy - This post includes pictures and a fun video/trailer I made for this blog/story.
14. Sexual Harassment - Alfieri is Italian... that's the way they joke and he likes "to joke like that."
15. Amnesia - Alfieri's selective memory... or a result of paranormal activity? This post has two videos - a trailer to the movie "Amnesia" and another video with portions of Alfieri's deposition.
16. The Scandal - How I learned the internet scandal had started.
17. Perception, Opinion and Judgment - How people viewed and judged the "alleged" claims.
18. Conflict on Set - The challenges and nightmarish experience. It includes pictures of Calcata and Rome.
19. The Wrap Party - Some fun before the unexpected war. This post has many pictures and a nice video of the wrap party.
20. And the Award Goes to... - The Snap Awards - another fun memory from the Wrap Party. There is a video of the Snap Awards.
21. The Break-Up - How we broke up in Italy. Were there witnesses??? Yes. And Alfieri still denies our  relationship.
22. Paranoia and Delusion - How Alfieri became paranoid and started accusing others of betrayal and theft... As the story unfolds we learn who really betrayed and stole.
23. Safety Violations and Abuse on Set - Was there abuse on set? Yes! I witnessed it!  This post includes excerpts of my amended cross-complaint and a video of Alfieri's deposition.
24. Perjury - Watch a video where Alfieri, while under oath, tells lie after lie and contradicts himself. 
25. How We Met - Alfieri seems to suffer from amnesia and does not remember much about how our relationship started. Fortunately, I do remember everything... and here's how we met. This post includes, emails, text messages and a video.
26. The Facebook Hacker - My favorite Alfieri tale. This post includes two videos - "The Facebook Hacker" and "The Spy Who Was Not."
27. Was I Set Up? - How Alfieri recruits Apollonia Kotero to set me up. This post includes emails, text messages and facebook chats.
28. Press Release - Why did I agree to a press release? The Cheaterville article. New Cheaterville post Looks Could Be Deceiving
29. Sexual Addiction - The TMZ article and my version of what truly happened.
30. How the Lawsuit Against Me Was Financed - Who paid the attorney to sue me? Read this post and find out. This post includes proof.
31. Last Communication with Alfieri - Emails that lead to the writing of this blog.
32. Our Relationship - the Alfieri Version - Alfieri gives one version in his complaint and something very different during his deposition. This post includes a video of his deposition... once again, sometimes suffering amnesia and other times contradicting himself.
33. Our Relationship - The Trevino Version - PART 1 - How our relationship started and evolved. This post includes multiple text messages between us.
34. Letters to Victor - Actual letters I wrote and sent to Alfieri. He was aware of how I felt. I never lied to him.
35. Our Relationship - The Trevino Version - PART 2 - Pre-production, filming, Victor's paranoia, the final break-up. Actual text messages and emails.
36. Friends with Benefits - The text messages tell the story and facts.
37. Premeditation - My second favorite Alfieri tale.  Alfieri did not accept any responsibility for the text messages or emails he wrote to me. He claimed I was his personal assistant and had access to his phone and computer.... I must have "texted" myself! Watch the video!
38. The Facts - A list of chronological facts (not allegations or assumptions). This post also includes a video with these facts.
39. The Top 10 Countdown - The Most Creative and Memorable Claims Made by Alfieri.  I had so much fun writing this post and making the video. It summarizes the creativity and entertainment value of Alfieri's imagination.
40. The Loan - The real reason we made the movie - so Alfieri could save his home from foreclosure. Watch the video.
41. Post-Production - An update on post-production.
42. Business Networking - Alfieri's incredible business skills.
43. To Cast and Crew - By far the most popular post. This post includes pictures and messages to almost everyone involved in the production of the film and in the Trevino story.
44. Story in Video - The Story told through a series of videos.
45. Suspicious Activity - Alfieri's behavior continues to be suspicious and shady.
46. Running Amok - When the "fire" could cease, Alfieri is still fighting a battle that does not even exist.
47. Staying in Touch - The importance of staying connected.
48. Sunset Boulevard - Rendez Vous???
49. Copyright Infringement - Don't I have the right to post whatever footage or pictures I own???
50. Moving On - Becoming "whole" while "getting even."
51. Deceit - Or simple fear of holding oneself accountable for any wrongdoing?
52. Sharing My Story - How my telling the truth affects others' reality.
53. Final Cut - Proof of Alfieri's great talent as a writer, director and producer.
54. Return On Investment - There are benefits and value that might be seemingly "intangible." 
55. Justice Will Prevail - One way or the other... what goes around comes around!
56. Financing a Dream - Whose dream are you investing in?
57. Personal Assistants - People We Trust - Or imaginary friends?
58. The Official Trailer - A Movie based on True Events.
59. Public Opinion - Freedom of Speech
60. IMDb - Making a movie is a true group effort.
61. ALIAS - Are you wearing a mask hiding who you truly are?
62. The Dark Closet -  What dark secrets stay locked up in the closet?
63. Karma -  What maintains the equilibrium of the Universe.
64. The Deadly Hairbrush Incident - An attack that will forever change the rules of "manly" fights.
65. Is Any Publicity GOOD Publicity? - In Showbiz... apparently so!
66. Being Brave -  Nobody can speak up our truth but ourselves.
67. Advocating for Justice -  Threats to take unresolved issues to arbitration?
68. Indictment - US Department of Justice - We find justice when we least expect it.
69. To Potential Buyers and Distributors - Important facts to consider.
70. Social Media - A great tool to stay connected and to publicly share personal information.
71. Standing Up for The Truth - Making a sharp turn into the legal road.
72. Above the Law - The inherent legal system that governs humanity where we are the judge.
73. Part II - The Trailer - A new beginning.
74. The Service - Poking humor at the situation... and life. Video of service.
75. Six Degrees of Separation - We are so close to one another... closer that we could ever imagine.
76. Nowhere to Hide - The internet era makes previous walls turn into transparent glass.
77. The Soul of the Judicial System - Or the lack of soul???
78. From the Midwest to Hollywood - We take our home wherever we go.
79. Guardian Angels - Do you believe in angels?
80. First Amendment - Freedom of Speech. We all have the right to speak up.
81. A New Beginning - A new name for my Blog... After all, this is MY story.
82. Index of Posts - A complete list of all the posts that tell "The Trevino Story."
83. Conviction - Prison Sentence - Facing the consequences of illegal actions.
84. Secrets - Untold Truths - What secrets are you afraid to tell?
85. Turning a Loss Into a Win - When you think you have lost a small battle, you could be on your way to winning a war.
86. Trust is a choice... and it starts with ourselves, with self-trust.
87. Lies, Negligence... or Memory Loss? A lie is a lie - no matter how small it is.
88. The Ripple Effect - Even the smallest action will create a ripple that will reach the other side of the world.
89. Making Peace - We must first make peace with ourselves.
90. Split Second - Your life can be transformed or "saved" in one split second. 
91. Bullies with a Law Degree - When that line of "protecting clients' interests" is crossed. 
92. It's Never Too Late - Never too late to let go of the past, stop fearing the future and live fully in the present with an open heart.
93. The Road Ahead - Walking our life path without losing sight of what is truly important.
94. Facing Adversity with a Smile - It is all about attitude.
95. The End of a Story - When a story ends, another one starts. They are all part of the bigger picture.
96. Looking for My Mother - I never stopped looking for you. May you rest in peace.
97. Victim - Stand up and speak out and you will no longer be a "victim."

Disclaimer – As of October 15, 2018, all legal issues (Trevino vs. Alfieri case) have been resolved. This resolution was reached during arbitration. There are no pending issues (Trevino vs. Alfieri case) related to fraud or theft. The resolution was mutually agreeable. There will be no more posts written about this story.

A New Beginning

Update as of 10-15-2018 -- The case has been dismissed by both parties.  As we have agreed to move forward, the dismissed case will remain confidential.

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Today I decided to change the name of my blog from "The Trevino-Alfieri Story" to "The Trevino Story." There was something unsettling about having my last name linked to Victor's by a hyphen. Although I am still litigating this lawsuit against him, I no longer want to have my name associated with his - at least, I do not want to create more posts on my blog under that combined name.

After all, it is my story. I am aware that I am the only person who sees the world the way I do. Therefore, I have a unique way to interpret the events that happened and continue happening .

Because I truly enjoy writing, I want to feel free to write about other subjects not related to Alfieri.  As some of you know, over a year ago, I started another blog "Who Is Writing Your Story?" That blog has had very few visitors. I remember talking to some friends and saying, "why do people go to the drama-filled Trevino-Alfieri Story when they can read something inspiring and uplifting on my other blog "Who's Writing Your Story?"

It seems like people are naturally drawn to drama. It is just human nature. That is the reason why about a year ago I decided to incorporate some of my realizations and insights that were intended for "Who's Writing Your Story?" in this blog. Why not offer some "entertaining" drama while also sharing valuable and inspiring messages?  And why not change the name of this blog to something that is more accurately descriptive of its contents?

Share Your Story

We all have a story to tell. Although some stories might resemble others, each story is truly unique.  We are the only ones who can tell our story accurately - nobody else. We are the ones who write it and the only ones that can ultimately understand it and make sense of it. By sharing our thoughts and truth with others, we allow others to share theirs with us as well. It is through sharing and listening, that we open up to others. We are then able to realize how similar our experiences really are and how easily our souls can connect if we simply allow them.

Disclaimer – As of October 15, 2018, all legal issues have been resolved. This resolution was reached during arbitration. There are no pending issues related to fraud or theft. The resolution was mutually agreeable. There will be no more posts written about this story.