Hot Dogs and Torts

It is only fitting that Los Angeles, one of the most litigious cities on the planet, should be the home of Law Dogs hot-dog stand, one of the few places where you can simultaneously wolf down a chili dog and outline your will.

Every Wednesday evening a line forms outside the stand near the corner of Sherman Way and Hazeltine Avenue, where hungry customers can get free legal advice with a side order of chips. The stand is owned by Van Nuys lawyer Kim Pearman, who has offered free legal advice there for more than 20 years. Jesus Perez, also a lawyer, has been helping Pearman for seven years to guide clients through the innards of the legal system.

“We always make sure they have had their meal before we sit down with clients,” said Perez noting that the crunch of potato chips can distract legal discourse.

The stand offers; a variety of dogs, including the Judge Dog, dripping with chili, and the Police Dog, topped with sauerkraut.

Perez said he and Pearman have also served heaping servings of free legal advice on bankruptcy, immigration, labor law, criminal law and other matters that affect the working-class community in the area. Worker’s compensation and difficult landlords are the most prevalent issues, said Perez.

“Our purpose is to give these people access to the legal system,” he said. “There are alot of people who feel left out of the system. Many people out there can’t afford a lawyer.”

But it is unclear whether Perez’ motives are gastronomic or moralistic. “I eat at least one hot dog every time I’m there.”

Yes, the law can be a heavy burden, especially around the midsection.