Tony Serra, a true embodiment of the anti-establishment spirit, defies conventional norms with his unconventional approach to life and law. After graduating from UC Berkeley's Boalt School of Law in 1961, he embarked on a career as a deputy district attorney for Alameda County, only to become disillusioned with the justice system after just one year. This disillusionment sparked a transformation, as he chose to become a private defense lawyer, dedicating his life to representing and fighting for the rights of the marginalized and oppressed.
Throughout his illustrious career, Serra has earned a reputation for defending and winning cases for individuals who have been wronged by the system, including drug dealers, members of the Hell's Angels, Black Panthers, and even the Symbionese Liberation Army. His defense of a Korean man wrongfully convicted in a Chinatown gang murder inspired the film 'True Believer', a testament to his unwavering commitment to justice.
Despite his unorthodox lifestyle, Serra remains a true bohemian at heart, often sporting a ponytail and wearing a silver African bracelet. He eschews material possessions, owning no property and having no checking account. His most prized possession is a 1970 Cadillac, which, despite its rusting fenders, missing trim, and malfunctioning drivers-side door, holds a special place in his heart.
Serra's dedication to his craft is unwavering, often taking on cases for free, and his estimated net worth is a mere $1000. As a tax resister opposed to military expenditures, he has not paid taxes for over two decades, a stance that reflects his unyielding commitment to his principles.
