Peter "Pete" J. Gates (1948 – 2025) was a founding member of G3PM, who practiced for more than 50 years. He was well known for his exceptional ability as a civil litigation defense attorney, and his utmost professionalism, integrity, and character.

Pete pursued his undergraduate studies at California State University, Fullerton, where he graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1970. He went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from Loyola Law School in 1974. That same year, he was admitted to the California Bar, beginning a distinguished legal career that would span over five decades.

Pete began his law career at Spray, Gould & Bowers in 1974. From 1976-2002, he went on to become a partner at Hill, Genson, Even, Crandall & Wade. In 2002, Pete co-founded Gates, Gonter, Guy, Proudfoot & Muench in Irvine, California. He remained an active and respected partner there until his passing. He tried to verdict over 150 jury trials. He defended and tried to defense verdict two of the biggest fire losses in the history of Orange County - the Anaheim Fire litigation and the 2151 Michelson Fire litigation filed against Standard Brands Paint Corporation.

Throughout his career, Pete was recognized for his commitment to his clients, his firm and the legal profession. He was a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) from 1999 until his passing and maintained active involvement with the Orange County Bar Association. His contributions earned him several honors during his lifetime, including ABOTA, Orange County Trial Lawyer of the Year for 2012. Most recently, Pete was posthumously recognized as the first recipient of the Champion of Justice Award from the ABOTA Orange County Chapter.