Brett Hartmann is a Monterey County local, having moved here at 10 years old. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of California, San Diego, Brett moved back home to Salinas to give back to the community. Shortly after moving home, Brett enrolled at Monterey College of Law to pursue his dream of becoming an attorney who fights for people in an oppressive criminal justice system.

While in law school, he was hand-picked to be a Teaching Fellow for Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure classes. Brett was a tutor to several local attorneys while in law school. Because of his exceptional advocacy skills, he was selected as a finalist for the Heisler Moot Court program. Brett graduated from Monterey College of Law as the Salutatorian. Through hard work and dedication, he earned an Outstanding Academic Achievement Award from West Publishing Company.

While in law school, Brett also worked full time as a paralegal at a local law firm. After passing the California Bar Exam, Brett continued to work as an attorney in Salinas. Prior to practicing criminal law, Brett worked as an attorney in workers' compensation. In this field, Brett sharpened his litigation skills in the areas of analyzing evidence, negotiating, advocating, strategizing, cross-examining difficult witnesses (including difficult "expert" witnesses), and writing motions and appeals. Brett now uses those skills solely in the practice of criminal defense.

Brett is passionate about helping those who are oppressed by the weight of the criminal justice system. He uses his stellar communication skills to stand up for those who need help. He believes that every case is important and deserves his full attention and effort. He says that "each client deserves an advocate who will fight like it is his own liberty on the line."