Hillel Chodos

If Mr. Hillel Chodos was likened to an "American Rumpole Of The Bailey", then based on that pleasant comment, I will suspend much of my grudge against him I learned from my old WCG church that was once in a 1979 California challenge long ago between Mr. Chodos, Stanley Rader, etc. I enjoyed reading Mr. Chodos's early years impressive history here, thanks!

What a wonderful tribute to an incredible Man.

I was one of those neighbors that Hillel had helped out. While in my early 20's I had leased a previously vacant derelict home -on his street- that I had then labored on -for years- to become habitable.
That was the deal, free labor for the owner, cheap rent for me.
I had literally 'camped' in it initially, the roof had caved into the bathroom & kitchen, no heat, icky hardwood parquet floors buckled up from water damage, windows missing, etc.
It was beyond bad. Unlivable even.
(It was located up above a canyon street and couldn't be seen from the roadway)
I'd eventually meet Hillel while working out in the weed strewn yard. He would always notice process and politely comment as he passed by, offering encouragement on my monumental task of clearing that hillside.
Once I'd made that place beautiful my landlord's new wife then tried to boot me out.
First she'd sent over her brother to 'tour' the inside when I'd resisted that unannounced impromptu barge in, he had tried to push past me, my dog had said no.
She'd planted herself in the doorway and growled, baring her teeth.
No charge, no bite... no 'entrance'.
I was left shaken and scared.
He was indignant and pissed.
His sister was even more so.
Next thing I knew I was being evicted.

Hillel somehow got wind of that and next thing I knew both of his sons were representing me in Court. This was a Last Minute addition as I had been overwhelmed and certainly didn't have any money for a lawyer before they'd contacted me to do this RIGHT Before my Hearing.
I can still remember the shock in my Landlord's Attorney's voice as he'd repeated their names out loud after reading their business cards in the court hallway. Lol.
"Chodos... any relation to Hillel Chodos?!!!" (!)
"Yes, he is our father and Donna is his neighbor"
Seriously thought the guy was gonna fall over.
TWO Chodos'es!!

Hadn't ended well for my Landlord.

They were able to prove the guy was a slumlord (curiously on a house in a wonderful neighborhood) and how I had lived for over two years without heat (nice to be young), how I had made ALL the repairs needed. (I had finally been able to afford getting the heat fixed after he'd repeatedly promised to have someone out... for well over two years)
While they proceed me in the stand, I had proudly shown off photos of all that I had gotten done, the 'Befores & Afters'. From Beast to Beauty.
I had lots & lots & lots of pictures.
When I spoke about the brother's attempted entry, the Judge had actually glared at the wife... (almost worth the event to see that happen )

They were magnificent, I got to stay until the end of my lease and Hillel continued to wave as he drove on by...
I think of him often & fondly

Sincerest Condolences to his family & friends.
He was truly a wonderful man and one of the best neighbors I've ever had.

I came to know Hillel when he was representing a man against an LA judge that owned almond property in Kern County. I was the attorney for the court appointed party to oversee the property. From that occasion, Hillel referred Charlie Lyons a real estate developer and investor in Bunny Luv Carrots. He trusted me to take over the case as he was trying the estate matter for Armand Hammer. The stakes were high as they were being sued for 18 million and we ended up getting damages against the plaintiffs. What an amazing man he was in court. Reciting from the Old Testament and great orators from memory in his court arguments. I came to know him for his wit and intelligence and that has affected me in my practice ever since.

Hillel was a superb lawyer. a highly capable opponent and a man of great integrity. It was an honor to share my last name with him.

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

The best. And a mensch to boot.
Gideon Kanner

I had only known Hillel for 15 years but he had a special place in my heart, both Professionally and personally. He will be missed by my wife and I. My deepest sympathy to his entire family.

I had known Hillel Chodos for over 40 years. We shared the same last name, but could never figure out how we were related.

His brilliance and tenacity were legendary and any client he chose to represent would be quick to realize the incredible warrior he had in his corner. Physical pain may have visited Hillel in his last years, but it never stopped him.

Those of us who knew him would all agree that there should be a sign carved near his resting place admonishing passers-by that "Here walked a giant!"

Hillel always had time for someone in need. He helped me deal with a difficult family situation that I will be forever grateful. He was truly a kind and giving man. Much love to his family at this time of grief.

Hillel was truly one of a kind.
When they made Hillel, they definitely threw away the pattern. Indeed, one could say that they didn't even use a pattern.
We mean this in the nicest way: a gentleman always, and one with great humor; creative and fearless in his representation of clients; in the vanguard of gaining respect for appellate advocacy as a unique and highly skilled specialty deserving of respect and excellent compensation; an upscale American Rumpole of the Bailey for civil cases in a red Ferrari.

May his memory be a blessing.