introduction edward louis massery was an american lawyer and politician born in paterson, new jersey in 1932. he received his juris doctor degree from loyola law school, los angeles in 1960. massery was a partner in the law firm of masry & vititoe and also served as a mayor and city councilman for the city of thousand oaks, california. career massery's career was marked by his landmark $333-million settlement against pacific gas & electric company (pg&e;) of california in 1993, which was the subject of the oscar-winning film 'erin brockovich' (2000). this case showcased massery's dedication t…