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Scott McDonald, Esq.

Scott McDonald, Esq.

Senior Associate

Homeowners dealing with HOA conflicts often feel like they're fighting an institution that holds all the cards. Scott McDonald understands that dynamic—and he knows how to shift it.

As a Senior Associate at LS Carlson Law, Scott focuses his practice on representing homeowners against overreaching, negligent, or abusive HOAs. He's deeply familiar with the tactics boards and management companies use to pressure homeowners into silence, and he brings a strategic, clear-eyed approach to pushing back.

Scott's litigation background spans personal injury, business disputes, real estate conflicts, and bankruptcy—experience that sharpened his ability to navigate complex legal terrain and find leverage where others might miss it. He's handled cases from early negotiations through trial, which means he knows when to push for resolution and when a case needs to go the distance.

Scott earned his law degree from Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, where he also completed the Straus Institute's program in alternative dispute resolution—training that informs his practical, results-focused approach to settling disputes when it makes sense.

Outside the office, Scott is a self-proclaimed "Super Dad" to three competitive surfers. When he's not advocating for homeowners, he's usually in the water with his wife and kids, chasing waves.

Education

J.D. — Pepperdine University School of Law, Malibu, California

B.S. — California State University, Fullerton

Thought Leadership

HOA Architectural Control Committees: What Homeowners Need to Know About Their Rights
March 31st, 2026 HOA Disputes

HOA Architectural Control Committees: What Homeowners Need to Know About Their Rights

BY: Scott McDonald, Esq. California
How California Judges Evaluate HOA and Real Estate Disputes
March 30th, 2026 HOA Disputes

How California Judges Evaluate HOA and Real Estate Disputes

BY: Scott McDonald, Esq. California
HOA Financial Transparency Failures That Lead to California Litigation
March 24th, 2026 HOA Disputes

HOA Financial Transparency Failures That Lead to California Litigation

BY: Scott McDonald, Esq. California
How HOA Boards in California Actually Exercise Power and Where They Overstep
March 18th, 2026 HOA Disputes

How HOA Boards in California Actually Exercise Power and Where They Overstep

BY: Scott McDonald, Esq. California
Water Intrusion in Your HOA: Who's Responsible, What to Do, and When to Fight Back
March 15th, 2026 HOA Disputes

Water Intrusion in Your HOA: Who's Responsible, What to Do, and When to Fight Back

BY: Scott McDonald, Esq. California
Why Most HOA Disputes Settle Before Trial and How Mediation Shapes Outcomes in California
March 11th, 2026 HOA Disputes

Why Most HOA Disputes Settle Before Trial and How Mediation Shapes Outcomes in California

BY: Scott McDonald, Esq. California

Five-Star Reviews

Mentioning: Scott McDonald, Esq.

J

James Muthart

3 months ago

Great consultation. Scott was very knowledgeable. He was able to give us guidance with our issue. We are able to move forward to the next step with confidence

M

Maryam

5 months ago

I had a one-hour consultation with Mr. McDonald, and he explained everything so clearly that I left with a full understanding of my position, what I could handle on my own and what would require legal representation.Even if you can’t afford to hire them for full representation, I highly recommend scheduling at least a consultation. They are extremely knowledgeable and genuinely take the time to guide you.As an educator for many years, I’ve worked with many great professionals, but Mr. McDonald stood out with the way he broke everything down and explained it so thoroughly. He’s just awesome. I highly recommend this firm!