His practice emphasis for the last 15 years has been primarily criminal cases with a special emphasis on
all aspects of drunk driving related offenses. He has conducted in excess of 100 contested DMV
hearings, many have resulted in restoration of driving privilege or suspension set asides. He has also
represented client in felony and misdemeanor driving under the influence offenses in Merced,
Mariposa, Stanislaus, Madera and Fresno Counties.
His additional emphasis is on Family Law cases including custody, visitation, child support, spousal
support, property division, restraining orders and all other aspects of interpersonal relationship
disputes.
He has been qualified and served as Judge Pro Tem in Family Law and sits as Judge Pro Tem in the
Merced County Superior Court. He has handled a wide range of other civil and criminal cases including
kidnapping, assault, burglary, robbery, drug offenses, and sexual assault.
He is married to Teresa Saldivar-Morse, elementary school principal in the Merced City School District.
He has three great kids. He has also served as director and president of the Merced County Historical
Society and the Merced Rotary Club. Morse is an avid historical buff and collector, and has authored a
book on the California Pottery Company of Merced.
Can be contacted by email at jhartman@morselaw.net