News & Publications

Our retired Partner, Jim Schwefel, died on May 22 after a period of declining health.  Jim was a brilliant lawyer, deeply steeped in the intellectual joy of the law itself; he specialized in business organizations, real estate, agriculture, and in the earlier part of his career was heavily involved in representing employers in union and labor disputes.

Longtime partner, Lloyd W. Lowrey, passed away unexpectedly on December 28, 2018, having been a part of the Noland Hamerly professional family for more than 40 years. Lloyd displayed the highest ethical standards.  He was a master of the law, handling complex transactions and advising businesses and individuals on not only the correct procedure and the legal obligations, but also the “right thing to do”.

Retired name partner Peter T. Hoss died on November 29, 2018. Peter was a highly respected member of the Monterey Bay region legal community, who specialized in complex construction litigation. He was an early champion of alternative dispute resolution in the construction law setting. 

Doc Etienne passed away September 10, 2016 at the age of 92.  Doc retired from the active practice of law in his mid ‘80’s.  Born May 19, 1924 in Pasadena, Doc attended the Merchant Marine Academy during World War II and circled the world several times on his Merchant Marine voyages.

“Recently the Monterey Jazz Festival lost one of its special people and guiding lights. Myron “Doc” Etienne was a board member and past President for the Monterey Jazz Festival for over 50 years. He helped establish and lead the organization through thick & thin with his special blend of wisdom, respect, tenacity & humor.