About Us

Our Mission

Our mission is to use litigation tools to force positive change in conduct of the government. We strive to protect those who cannot defend themselves from the evils of the government, specifically Child Protective Services (CPS).

Our Vision

“To hold the government responsible for violating people’s civil rights. Everybody has the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness – whatever they conceive it to be.” – Shawn McMillan.

Award-Winning Attorney

Shawn A. McMillan

Trial Attorney

Shawn a native of San Diego, California holds an undergraduate degree (BA) from the University of California, San Diego in Chinese Studies with a concentration in Pacific trade.

Shawn was admitted to practice law in November 2000. Until 2009, he maintained an active trial practice concentrating on business dispute litigation, shareholder dispute litigation, and Chapter 11 restructuring.

In 2009, Shawn developed an interest in protecting the civil rights of children and parents who become involved with government child protection agencies.

Shawn has received recognition by the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association as a “Top Gun” trial attorney in the area of Civil Rights for his work in the landmark parental rights case: Deanna Fogarty-Hardwick v. Orange County Social Services, et al. He also received the Consumer Attorney’s of California “Street Fighter of The Year” award for the same case.

Most recently Shawn received Consumer Attorney’s of San Diego’s “Outstanding Trial Lawyer Award” for his work in Rafaelina Duval v. County of Los Angeles, et al.

Committed To Keeping Our Children Safe

We strive to protect those who cannot defend themselves from the evils of the government, specifically Child Protective Services.

Why choose us?

Our award-winning team puts the children first. we will fight for their rights and make sure they are safe.

What Our Clients Say

woman1

Shawn is a lawyer who truly cares about the children of this world. When they don't have a voice he speaks for them. Thank God we have people in this world like him to represent our children. I truly appreciate what you are doing. Thanks so much.

– Rachel B.

man1

This man is better than a good attorney, he is a good human being. When I was faced with an overwhelming situation, and unable to retain him for myself, he STILL was kind enough to send me a copy of a winning claim for me to use as a template in my own case.

– John C.

woman2

For those in SoCal who have had their children removed illegally, this is where you need to be. If he can't help, at the very least, he will direct you to it.

– Lucy T.

man2

I can't nor will I ever be able to say enough great things about Shawn McMillan. He is absolutely the best in his area of practice. He's a tireless advocate who doesn't stop until the job is done. Not only an attorney par excellence but also a very kind person. Shawn is very knowledgeable and his work is of the highest standard.

– Blake D.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. We help families sue social workers for civil rights violations when they have breached their professional duties to manage and supervise children in the foster care system.  Some common claims are: negligence for failure to act or protect, negligence for inadequate supervision and improper removal of child without due process.  
 
The success of these types of cases depends on clearly establishing duty, breach, causation, and damages. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney is essential to evaluate the specifics of your situation and guide you through the legal process.
The Foster Family Home and Small Family Home Insurance Fund in California is designed to provide liability insurance coverage for licensed foster family homes and small family homes.  This would include claims for bodily injury sustained by a foster child while in a foster family or small family home or property damage caused by a foster child or incidents related to caregiving activities.

This insurance fund can provide coverage for claims of negligence against foster caregivers for failure to supervise a foster child or causing harm to a foster child.
If your child dies while in foster care, it is a profoundly tragic and distressing event. Here are the steps you should take to address this situation: 
  1. Contact law enforcement to open an investigation
  2. Obtain any and all information from the foster agency and the child welfare agency responsible for your child’s placement to get detailed information about the circumstances surrounding your child’s death.
  3. Request an autopsy and all medical records to determine the cause of death and whether it was preventable.
  4. Consult an attorney who specializes in child welfare death cases.
Compensation for abuse in shelter care is possible through legal channels, including civil lawsuits. It is crucial to act promptly by reporting the abuse, documenting the evidence, consulting with a specialized attorney, and taking steps to ensure your personal safety and well-being. Common claims include negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, assault and battery, and violation of civil rights. Advocating for your rights plays a significant role in your chances of receiving compensation.