Today we’d like to introduce you to Zino Osehobo.
Hi Zino, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My parents were both born and raised in Nigeria. In 1990 they got married and moved to Canada for a more enhanced life for their children. A boy was born first, a girl was born second, and then finally, a young bundle of joy entered the world. My name, Ewomazino, actually means “something good has happened”, in my parent’s native dialect.
At the age of four, my family and I moved to Atlanta, GA, where I would begin school. I graduated high school in 2014, from Woodward Academy. I then went on to pursue Pre-Law at Auburn University, War Eagle.
It’s here where my passion for creating an impact in the justice system was born. My college education revealed to me the systemic disenfranchisement that the criminal justice system unleashes on the African American community. In addition, Michael Ferguson, Eric Garner, Tamir Rice, and Philando Castile. These names, after each and every tragedy, further solidified a truth for me. This truth was that African Americans in this country have the ability and strength to move mountains. However, the world will always try to stop us from reaching that full potential.
I made a decision to focus my energy, and direct my passion into becoming the most efficient and relevant criminal defense attorney.
I didn’t grow up learning about many African American lawyers, especially in criminal defense. I knew that Los Angeles, however was a cornucopia of black history and black excellence. Names like Rodney King and Johnnie Cochran came to mind when I thought of Los Angeles. My faith has always been the anchor guiding my decisions when it came to my purpose. God was clearly leading me to the West Coast. After graduating from Auburn, I moved to Los Angeles and began law school at Pepperdine School of Law. While in school, I worked for the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office, the same office that prosecuted OJ Simpson. I saw first-hand the systemic and governmental implementation of minority disenfranchisement. I also saw the necessity of a government to intervene in humankind’s worst moments. For a time, I thought about becoming a prosecutor. However, it became known to me that I would have to work several years as someone who placed individuals in jail before I would gain the clout and discretion to make an impact on the cases I handle.
I wanted the freedom to change people’s lives. After graduating law school and passing the bar, I opened up Grace Legal Group, Inc. We are a criminal defense team, that believes human beings are not the worst thing they have been accused of. Everyone is deserving of redemption. Rehabilitation, and not punishment, should be the focus of the criminal justice system. A year and a half later, we have caused numerous cases to be dismissed, prevented jail time for several clients, and restored the lives of many families.
This is my story, and I am looking forward to what God writes next.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It was not a smooth road at all, but I am thankful for every speed bump. The first, being a one-month attorney without any experience, makes it hard to convince people to spend money on your service. In the beginning, we had to gain credibility by doing good work, oftentimes for free. Sometimes we were shown appreciation, other times, we were not.
As 25-year-olds, we had to learn to be employers before even being employees. We made many mistakes with staff, other businesses, and even our own processes. Many companies took advantage of us and made us question ourselves almost monthly. We never gave up, and we never stayed down. Adapt, Improvise, and Overcome. Our perseverance has empowered us to help over 200 clients to date.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Our entirely minority-run firm is founded on the principle that everyone deserves a chance at redemption, and we are committed to using every legal avenue available to us to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. We are known for our drive, energy, passion, compassion, and bringing positivity and hope during hard times. We are proud to be a part of a movement that is reshaping the future of criminal justice in California. With Grace, there’s always a second chance.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Intentionally putting yourself in the position to achieve your goals, no matter how uncomfortable it may be. Each time you get to look back and see your growth, then you are a success.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gracelegalgroup.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/CXtqIrjPNM8/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zino-o-osehobo-esq-904420a4?trk=public_profile_browsemap
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@gracelegalgroup1?lang=en
