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Robert Pacheco brings a wealth of experience to the Cal OSH Appeals Board. He has been a practicing attorney for 30 years and served in the California state assembly from 1998 - 2004. During his time in the assembly, Pacheco served on a number of key committees and was vice-chair of the powerful Judiciary committee. A successful businessman for more than 50 years, Pacheco's background and knowledge in retail, manufacturing, banking and law will offer valuable insight to the board.
Born in Mesilla Park, New Mexico, Pacheco moved to California in 1952. He graduated from University High School in West Los Angeles and attended East Los Angeles Community College where he received an Associate of Arts degree. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from California State University Los Angeles and a Juris Doctor degree from Western State University Law School. In 1974 he was admitted to the California State Bar. Additionally, he is admitted to practice law before the United States Supreme Court, the California Supreme Court, United States District Court and the United States Bankruptcy Court.
Pacheco's business experience includes working for 18 years as a member of the Retail Clerks and store manager for several major supermarket chains. After leaving the grocery industry he went to work for United California Bank where he was a vice president in the corporate banking division. In 1976 Pacheco became a sole practitioner in the private law firm he created. Presently, he is the senior partner in the law offices of Pacheco & Pacheco.
Pacheco and his wife, Gayle, operate a manufacturing and distribution company supplying stainless steel and stamped metal hardware products to original equipment manufacturers in the truck body, furniture and housing industries. As a business owner and employer he understands the everyday decisions and operating problems of industries served by the Department of Industrial Relations and the Occupational Safety and Health Appeals Board.
As an attorney, Pacheco has in-depth experience in the areas of workers' compensation, construction, real estate and labor laws that affect employers. A successful trial attorney for 30 years, he has litigated hundreds of cases and has been an effective advocate for employees, business owners and industries throughout Southern California.
Active in public and civic organizations, Pacheco served as a planning commissioner and council member for the City of Walnut. He is a member of several charitable foundations that support abused children, students, educators, seniors and the disadvantaged. He is a founding member of the Gabriel Foundation, the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation and the Walnut Humanitarian and Medical Mission.
While serving in the California state assembly, Pacheco distinguished himself in the legislature and in the communities he served. The Los Angeles Sheriffs Association, the California Community College Administrators, the Lincoln Clubs of California, Walnut Chamber of Commerce and the Boy Scouts of America recognized him as both Legislator of the Year and Outstanding Citizen. He was also inducted into the Western State University Law School's Hall of Fame and received the Nettie Humanitarian award for prevention of HIV/AIDS, the American Islamic Relations Legislator Award, Outstanding Legislative Advocate for Easter Seals award, and the Latino Journal's Excellence in Public Service Award.