Mandamus actions can be powerful tools for those seeking to compel government officials to perform their duties or to reverse unlawful decisions. Whether you are dealing with a denied permit, an unjust administrative ruling, or a failure to act by a public agency, our firm is ready to advocate for you.

Mandamus Actions We Handle:

Administrative Appeals

Challenging decisions made by government agencies that negatively impact your rights or business.

Permit & License Denials

If a government agency has wrongfully denied you a permit or license, we can seek a writ of mandamus to compel approval.

Public Employment Disputes

Challenging wrongful termination, disciplinary actions, or other employment disputes involving public employees.

Zoning & Land Use Issues

Addressing disputes with local governments regarding land use, zoning permits, or regulatory decisions.

Unlawful Government Actions

Compelling government officials to perform duties they are legally obligated to carry out.

Public Records Access

Seeking to enforce the right to access public records that are being unlawfully withheld.

Why Choose Us for Your Mandamus Action?

Extensive Experience

We have successfully represented clients in complex mandamus cases, challenging wrongful government actions and administrative decisions.

Strategic Advocacy

Our attorneys are skilled in building compelling arguments to present to the court, ensuring your case is heard effectively.

Client-Centered Approach

We prioritize open communication, keeping you informed throughout the process and working to achieve the best possible outcome.

Resolute Representation

Whether negotiating with agencies or litigating in court, we are prepared to fight for your rights against any level of government.

A writ of mandamus is a court order compelling a public official, government agency, or lower court to perform a duty that is legally required. Mandamus actions are typically filed when a party has no other adequate legal remedy to resolve the issue. They are considered extraordinary remedies and are not granted lightly.

Types of Mandamus Writs

Traditional Mandamus

Used to compel a public official to perform a mandatory duty when they have failed to do so.

Administrative Mandamus

Filed to challenge the decision of a government agency or board after an administrative hearing or ruling.

Prohibitory Mandamus

Sought to prevent a government entity from performing an act that is beyond its authority or unlawful.

Steps in Filing a Mandamus Action

Review of Government Action

We begin by assessing the nature of the government’s action or inaction, identifying the specific legal duty that was violated.

Exhaustion of Administrative Remedies

Before filing a writ of mandamus, we typically must exhaust all other available administrative remedies, such as appeals or hearings.

Preparation of Petition

Our attorneys draft a petition for a writ of mandamus, clearly outlining the facts, applicable laws, and the specific relief sought.

Filing and Service

The petition is filed in the appropriate court and served on the government agency or official.

Court Hearing

We present evidence and legal arguments to the court, demonstrating that the government entity has failed to perform a legally required duty.

Court Ruling

If the court grants the writ, it issues an order compelling the government to perform the required action or to cease unlawful activity.

Our Approach to Civil Litigation

We know the complexities involved in challenging government actions through mandamus proceedings. These cases require thorough legal analysis, strategic advocacy, and a deep understanding of administrative law. We take a meticulous approach to every mandamus case, ensuring that your petition is well-documented and supported by compelling evidence and legal arguments. Our attorneys are experienced in both state and federal court systems and are prepared to navigate the nuances of each jurisdiction to protect your rights. When your rights have been violated by a government agency or official, we stand ready to take decisive action. We work closely with you to understand your objectives and develop a tailored strategy aimed at compelling the government to act, or stop acting, in accordance with the law.

Real Stories. Lasting Impact.

What Our Clients Say

When you're choosing legal representation, nothing speaks louder than the experiences of those we've already helped. Over the years, individuals, families, and professionals across Los Angeles have trusted us to guide them through some of life’s most difficult moments — and their words reflect the care, commitment, and results we strive for in every case. Read what our clients have to say about working with DePasquale & Cole.

Greg Moran

Manhattan Beach

I was fired for complaining about an assault by a coworker. Russell Cole and Paul DePasquale sued my employer and got me a very good settlement. They were knowledgeable and cared about my case. I would recommend them to anyone who has a problem at work.

Lyle Fields

Los Angeles

Russell Cole and DePasquale & Cole helped me to again be able to parent my daughter after the court had given her mother full custody with no visitation for me. My case was handled with care and compassion, and a high level of skill. I am very grateful for what they did for me, and cannot thank them enough.

Larry Kaufman

Culver City

DePasquale & Cole have handled several matters for me. They represented me in the Superior Court to challenge the termination of my employment by the City of Los Angeles, and then represented me in the California Court of Appeals. They also went to court to resolve complicated retirement issues which were left over from a difficult divorce.

John Pill

Long Beach

I suspected that I was not being paid commissions owed to me. I called Russ Cole, and DePasquale & Cole handled the case from initial advice through a settlement with my former employer which eventually involved three additional co-workers. Russ and Paul kept me informed, and I was glad to know that they were obviously ready, willing and able to go to trial.

Manuel Crawford

Fontana

DePasquale and Cole got me through two trials in a complex case without a conviction after the DA tried the case a second time after a hung jury. My lawyers knew how to exploit the weaknesses of the prosecution and the police. After that, Paul DePasquale helped me get a judgment at trial in a business case after a former friend ripped me off.

Mandamus Actions