About Us

With over four decades of experience in law enforcement and legal expertise, Lita Abella stands as a beacon of unwavering integrity and unparalleled investigative prowess. As the Founder and Principal Investigator of Abella & Associates, she has established herself as a formidable force in the field of investigations, guiding clients through complex legal challenges with unwavering dedication and astute leadership.

Lita’s career began in November 1980 when she embarked on her journey with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). Navigating diverse roles across various divisions, including, but not limited to patrol, traffic, vice, narcotics, Drug Abuse Recognition Education (DARE), Investigative Analysis Section, and Internal Affairs, she honed her skills and gained invaluable insights into the intricacies of criminal investigations.

Her unwavering commitment to excellence propelled her through the ranks, earning her pivotal positions such as police officer, training officer, senior lead officer, detective, sergeant, and lieutenant.

During her tenure, Lita actively engaged in various LAPD organizations and initiatives, serving as a delegate of the Los Angeles Police Protective League, vice president of the Los Angeles Women Police Officer Association, and contributing to significant commissions and task forces such as the Christopher Commission.

A true embodiment of service, Lita extended her dedication beyond the confines of her official duties by participating in events like the LAPD Baker to Vegas Relay Race, the Police Olympics, and various sports and fitness competitions.

Culminating her public service tenure in 2000, she leveraged her extensive law enforcement background and unwavering passion for justice to establish Abella & Associates.

In 2004, Lita further enriched her qualifications by obtaining a Juris Doctor from Western State University College of Law, solidifying her position as a legal expert and a formidable investigator.

Her expertise extends beyond the realm of criminal investigations, having served 12 years with the State Bar of California, including over five years with the Office of Cheif Trial Counsel as an investigator working on complex disciplinary cases. Moreover, she is a sought after Minimum Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) public speaker on ethics and competency providing invaluable presentations to attorneys and legal professionals on her expertise on substance use disorders, mental health issues, wellness strategies, and health and wellness coaching.

Lita Abella stands as a seasoned investigator, consultant, and leader with a track record of handling thousands of criminal, civil, and administrative cases. Her unwavering commitment to excellence is underscored by her extensive training, positioning her as a formidable professional equipped to navigate the complexities of legal challenges.

Drawing upon her unparalleled public and private sector experience, Lita is dedicated to helping clients unravel legal intricacies and find effective solutions. Today, she leads Abella & Associates, providing clients with unparalleled insights, investigative prowess, and legal acumen to address their diverse legal and business needs.

Lita has also obtained the California Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) Certificates: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, Supervisory, and Management, Diversity and Inclusion Certificate (Cornell University), and Project Manager Certificate.

Affiliations

• California Association of Licensed Investigators
• Former CALI Director-at-Large, Los Angeles District Director, Los Angeles District Governor (2008-2012)
• American Bar Association
• California Lawyers Association, Health and Wellness Committee
• SEIU Local 1000, DLC 850 Executive Board, President, VP, Bargaining Team Chairperson, Cheif Steward (2013 to 2024)
• City of Azusa, Library Commissioner (2014 to present)
• Public speaker in over 400 MCLE and other presentations to law students and attorneys
• Institute for Well-Being in Law State Task Force Committee Member
• International Coaching Federation (ICF) and International Coaching Federation Los Angeles (ICFLA)
• Los Angeles County Bar Association Lawyer Well-Being Project Committee