Richard Lester

Richard Lester: The Champion of Motorcyclists’ Rights

In a world where motorcyclists often face prejudice and legal challenges, Richard Lester has emerged as a passionate advocate for their rights. His journey from eclectic careers to becoming a renowned attorney for motorcyclists is as fascinating as it is inspiring.

An Unconventional Path to Law

Born with a sense of adventure, Richard Lester’s early life was anything but traditional. Before he entered the legal field in his 40s, he dabbled in various vocations—wild animal trainer, trapper in South America, and even manager of a headshop and waterbed store. Yet, these diverse experiences shaped his understanding of people and their needs, providing a unique perspective that would serve him well in his legal career.

In 1982, Richard took the leap and began his law practice, focusing primarily on personal injury cases involving motorcyclists. His commitment to this community was evident from the start, as he recognized that many riders were unaware of their legal rights and the importance of safety following an accident.

A Voice for Motorcyclists

From the very beginning, Richard was dedicated to educating motorcyclists about their rights. He began speaking to biker groups, offering guidance on what to do if involved in an accident. His proactive approach saw him addressing clubs and organizations two to three times a week, providing valuable insights into the law while answering questions from riders eager to learn.

Recognizing the need for immediate assistance in times of crisis, Richard founded Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (AIM). This free program was designed to provide crucial information when a biker is involved in an accident. The AIM card offers medical staff essential details about the rider and connects them with a 24-hour operator who promptly informs friends or family members, ensuring that help is always just a call away.

Bridging the Gap

As Richard traveled with AIM, he identified another pressing issue within the motorcycling community: the lack of communication among various biker rights groups. Activists in one state often remained unaware of the developments occurring in neighboring states, leaving them isolated and less effective in their advocacy.

Determined to foster collaboration and exchange, Richard used some of AIM’s legal fees to establish the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM). This coalition was founded with the mission to assist motorcycle organizations and individual riders with legal, legislative, and other issues. Rather than dictating actions, NCOM offers a support system, providing free services such as legislative assistance, a nationwide information network, public awareness programs, and safety projects.

The annual NCOM convention has become a cornerstone event where freedom fighters from across the country gather to discuss pressing issues, share insights, and participate in workshops and seminars—all funded through AIM’s legal fees.

Uniting the Motorcycle Community

Continuing his mission, Richard played a pivotal role in the formation of the Confederation of Clubs. This organization was born from his ability to mediate and encourage collaboration among motorcycle clubs that had previously struggled to communicate. By bringing clubs together, he helped them form a unified front against the discrimination and harassment they faced.

Today, every state in the U.S. has at least one Confederation of Clubs, a testament to Richard’s success in creating a strong, organized network of motorcyclists dedicated to fighting for their rights.

Expanding the Coalition

More recently, Richard has been instrumental in forming two additional coalitions: the Christian Unity Coalition and the National Sports Bike Association. These groups aim to unite like-minded riders and clubs under common causes, further strengthening the motorcycling community.

A Life Beyond the Law

Richard currently resides in Calabasas, California, where he continues to champion motorcyclists’ rights. Married to his best friend Linda for 30 years, they share a loving family that includes three sons, one daughter, and a grandson. Beyond his legal pursuits, Richard has developed a passion for collecting animals, including tortoises and snakes, showcasing his love for nature and adventure.

When summer rolls around, you can find Richard and his sons out in the desert, snake hunting—a cherished hobby that mirrors his adventurous spirit. He hopes to continue his work in preserving the motorcycle lifestyle while enjoying time with his family and pursuing his outdoor interests.

Conclusion

Richard Lester’s journey from a varied career path to a dedicated advocate for motorcyclists’ rights exemplifies the impact one person can have on a community. Through his unwavering commitment, he has not only educated riders but has also fostered a network of support that continues to thrive. As he champions the cause of motorcyclists across the nation, Richard embodies the spirit of resilience and determination, ensuring that the voices of riders are heard and their rights protected.