First California Financial Group Announces Passing of Chief Credit Officer

• Press Release
• Source: First California Financial Group
• On 4:00 pm EST, Wednesday November 19, 2008

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA--(MARKET WIRE)--Nov 19, 2008 -- First California Financial Group, Inc. (NasdaqGM:FCAL - News) today announced that Walter Duchanin, executive vice president and chief credit officer of its subsidiary, First California Bank, died unexpectedly Tuesday. President and Chief Executive Officer C. G. Kum will assume Duchanin's responsibilities on an interim basis until a replacement is named.

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Symbol	Price	Change
FCAL	3.52	+0.02

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"Our entire company is deeply saddened by Walter's untimely passing," said Kum. "We have lost a respected business partner as well as a wonderful friend. Those who knew Walter will remember his commitment to the success of First California. I join the entire company in extending our prayers and deepest condolences to Walter's family."

Duchanin joined First California Bank in November 2007, bringing more than two decades of experience as a senior-level credit administrator. He began his banking career in 1978 with Bank of America, where Duchanin subsequently assumed positions of increasing responsibilities in lending and credit administration. Prior to joining First California, he served as executive vice president and chief credit officer of Preferred Bank (NasdaqGS:PFBC - News), headquartered in Los Angeles. Duchanin graduated from the University of Southern California in 1976 with a degree in finance.

Duchanin is survived by his wife, Gayle, two daughters, April and Jessica and son, Eric. He was 55 years old.

About First California Financial Group, Inc.

First California Financial Group, Inc. (NasdaqGM:FCAL - News) is an emerging force in Southern California banking. With assets exceeding $1 billion, the company operates throughout Southern California, primarily under the First California Bank brand. The bank's focus is the commercial market, particularly small- and middle-sized businesses, professional firms and commercial real estate, development and construction companies. With a commitment to provide the best client service available in its markets, the bank offers a full line of quality commercial banking products through twelve full-service branch offices and one loan production office. The holding company's website can be accessed at www.fcalgroup.com. For additional information on First California Bank's products and services, visit www.fcbank.com.

     For further Information:
      
     At the Company:
     Ron Santarosa
     805-322-9333
      
     At PondelWilkinson:
     Angie Yang
     310-279-5980
      
     Corporate Headquarters Address:
     3027 Townsgate Road, Suite 300
     Westlake Village, CA 91361