Marco Ornelas Lopez

Marco Ornelas Lopez is an associate in Best Best & Krieger LLP’s Municipal and Litigation practice groups. Based in the Los Angeles office, Marco provides comprehensive legal counsel to cities, public agencies, and law enforcement entities on a wide range of issues, including governance, regulatory compliance, and innovative policy development.

Marco’s practice emphasizes municipal law, where as an Assistant City Attorney, he advises clients on the Brown Act, Public Records Act, and Political Reform Act, as well as complex planning, zoning, rent control, affordable housing, and housing regulations. He works closely with the cities of Baldwin Park, Lomita, and Palos Verdes Estates, assisting their elected officials and staff in navigating challenging legal and political landscapes. His contributions include implementing Rent Stabilization Ordinances and developing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) programs for law enforcement agencies.

As a skilled litigator, Marco has second-chaired multiple trials and other litigation matters in federal court, securing favorable outcomes in complex cases involving law enforcement agencies. He is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Central and Eastern Districts of California and has contributed to appellate litigation before the Ninth Circuit.

Marco’s dedication to public service extends to his editorial role for the League of California Cities’ Municipal Law Handbook, where he helps maintain this vital resource for attorneys statewide. He also provides AB 1234 ethics training to municipal staff and elected officials, fostering transparency and ethical governance.

In addition to his legal practice, Marco is an active member of the Urban Land Institute, where he engages with real estate and land use professionals to shape the future of urban development. Marco is committed to mentorship and diversity in the legal profession. As a former BBK 1L Diversity Fellow, he now participates in recruitment efforts to identify and mentor the next generation of attorneys.

While in law school, Marco served as an editor of the Hastings Environmental Law Journal, participated in the Moot Court program, and coached the Hispanic National Bar Association’s national championship team. Marco also served as 3L president of the Associated Students and his undergraduate years included leadership roles in student government and political organizing.

Marco lives in Los Angeles. A passionate home chef, Marco loves experimenting in the kitchen, cooking meals inspired by his Mexican heritage. He also enjoys exploring Los Angeles with his film camera, capturing the city’s vibrant culture and landscapes.