Joanna Curtis

An accomplished prosecutor and trial lawyer for over twenty years in both state and federal courts, WLALA appointed Joanna Curtis to its 2025-2026 Board of Governors, where she serves as co-chair of the Litigation Section.  As an Assistant United States Attorney for more than 15 years in the Central and Southern Districts of California, Joanna represented the United States in high-profile criminal matters, including tragic murder cases involving children, wives, off duty LAPD officers, TSA officers, and others.  Joanna also investigated, charged, and prosecuted gang members in sweeping, complex racketeering cases. While managing her many cases and investigations as a federal prosecutor, Joanna held senior management positions for 10 years, including Chief of the Violent and Organized Crime Section and General Crimes Section, both in Los Angeles. Joanna began her commitment to service as a Deputy District Attorney in the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

Joanna’s effective and compassionate work with victims has always set her apart and has been recognized by the Victim Witness Section of the United States Attorney’s Office.  Joanna knows how to convey complex information in a straightforward manner, across language barriers, and in the face of legal jargon and confusion.  She is now using her unique background and trial experience to help those harmed by utility-caused wildfires or seriously harmed by the negligence of others as Senior Trial Attorney for Fox Law and by teaching Trial Practice at Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law. Joanna is also an active member of the Los Angeles philanthropic community and serves as a volunteer for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, the American Red Cross, and the Mediation Volunteer Panel of the Los Angeles Superior Court.