Charles S. Cauffman is an associate attorney in Tressler’s Insurance Services Practice Group in our Orange County, California office. He focuses his practice on insurance coverage analysis and litigation. Before joining Tressler, Charles was an associate at a law firm specializing in construction defect litigation, where he represented subcontractors and general contractors in disputes related to construction defects. Additionally, Charles gained valuable experience as a law clerk at a property law firm in Los Angeles and at a well-known lemon law firm in Century City, California.

Charles received his B.A. from the University of California, Irvine, his M.A. from California State University, Fullerton, and his J.D. from the University of Kansas School of Law.

Where are you from?

I was born in Long Beach, California, but I grew up in Whittier, California.

What was your first job?

My first job was as a tennis coach at the Whittier College Sports Camp.

Do you have any hidden talents or unique hobbies?

I enjoy playing tennis, golf, cooking Chinese cuisine, and learning languages. My favorite pastime, however, is spending time with my wife and daughter.

What is on your bucket list?

I would love to take my family on a long trip to China and savor spicy Sichuan food with my wife. Additionally, I aspire to become fluent in Chinese.

Why did you decide to become an attorney?

I have always had a passion for researching, writing, and being creative. Since being a lawyer requires all three skills, it felt like a fitting career choice for me.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

I usually arrive at the office around 8:00 AM, start my day by checking emails, and then proceed with my assignments. I take a short lunch break and often walk around the plaza. My workday typically ends around 5:30 PM or 6:00 PM, after which I go home to spend time with my family.

Why did you choose your areas of practice?

Before joining the Tressler team, I worked in construction defect law, focusing on finding coverage from other carriers during litigation. I was intrigued by responding to tender letter denials and found this practice area appealing. I enjoy the research and analysis involved in insurance law.

What do you like most about Tressler?

I appreciate the people I work with and the variety of cases I handle. Tressler offers numerous opportunities to gain new experiences and grow within the firm.

What are you most proud of, professionally and personally?

I am most proud of my family. I am fortunate to have a beautiful and supportive wife, as well as a loving daughter.

Tell us something else that we would not know about you.

Before starting my legal career, I was a dedicated saxophone player, performing at restaurants on weekends and playing in the University of California, Irvine Jazz Band. I have a passion for classic 1950s bebop music and have always aspired to sound like Charlie Parker or Gigi Gryce. Initially, I wanted to become a professional musician, but becoming an attorney and starting a family have slowed down these pursuits. Nonetheless, I still play today.