English-Speaking Attorneys

Armando J. Córdova

Pearland, TX

Armando Córdova is a managing attorney at J.D. Silva & Associates, focusing on personal injury litigation. He has nearly 10 years of experience in the legal industry, handling civil litigation and criminal defense. He is a bilingual Houstonian, serving both Spanish and English-speaking clients. His experience includes an internship with the Harris County Attorney’s Office, providing him with valuable courtroom and investigative insight.

Jean-Paul C. Lundy

Beverly Hills, CA

Jean-Paul holds a J.D. from Trinity Law School and is the Business Director at Etehad Law, APC. His focus is on the firm’s operational systems, business development, litigation management, and third-party referrals. While in law school, Jean-Paul studied East African and Humanitarian Law in Mukono, Uganda, studied at the International Institute of Human Rights in Strasbourg, France, and led a team in Phnom Penh, Cambodia in presenting on the challenges facing the fight against human trafficking in the western region of the United States. Prior to joining Etehad Law, Jean-Paul honed his skills helping plaintiffs in construction defect, sexual abuse, insurance bad faith, and pandemic-related business interuption cases. He also attained tremendous respect for defense work while working at a medical malpractice defense firm. While on the defense side, Jean-Paul prepared for trial and acquired invaluable knowledge from some of the most renowned medical malpractice defense attorneys in California.

Jonathan O. Peña

Fresno, CA

Jonathan has assisted disabled individuals for over a decade. First as a paralegal at a disability office, and then as a solo practitioner. Jonathan’s office is supported by seven legal assistants and two clerks. Jonathan was raised in the city of Sanger, California in Fresno County. His migrant parents instilled in him the notion that we all deserve compassion, decency, and the ability to live with dignity. His parents aimed to teach him the very common lesson in migrant communities: work hard and study even harder. Jonathan worked during the summers and winter vacations in the chili fields and grape vineyards. Jonathan attended Fresno City College and then transferred to Fresno Pacific University where he obtained a Bachelors Degree in Organizational Leadership. He then attended San Joaquin College of Law where he obtained a Juris Doctor degree. Jonathan has a long history of advocating for the underprivileged. While attending Fresno Pacific University and the San Joaquin College of Law, Jonathan assisted disabled children and adults applying and appealing for Social Security benefits. After law school, Jonathan continued his fight to serve those who need it the most. The Social Security Administration is bound to many regulations and internal instructions that often go ignored. Social Security often denies valid claims. Sometimes, claimants feel that if the agency denied it once, they are likely to deny it again. That is just not true. Social Security has a very high reversal rate once the case reaches the Hearing Level. The ability to navigate the minefield of Social Security law can be the difference between a never ending cycle of denials and a favorable decision, allowing a claimant to move forward with his / her life. As a solo practitioner, and as a partner in the Peña & Bromberg office, Jonathan has used technology to provide a modern approach to representation, utilizing legal research tools. At the offices of Peña & Bromberg, the staff is required to be well versed in the area of Social Security law. Jonathan provides ongoing continuing legal education opportunities for his staff. Jonathan has previously stated, “My primary focus is helping the disabled apply or appeal for disability benefits under the Social Security Act or for Veterans Disability benefits. I represent disabled children, adults, workers, veterans, and the vulnerable. I do not charge my clients any upfront fees. We work harder than any firm because we use technology to the advantage of our clients. Our attorneys are well versed in the regulations that govern Social Security law and push for the enforcement of the regulations and administration instructions that the agencies too often ignore. We believe that a disabled individual already faces so many barriers, the law should be the vehicle by which the quality of life is improved, not made worse.” The fight for Social Security benefits is a long one. Jonathan believes that having a well prepared attorney by a claimant’s side is the best way to approach the Social Security Administration.

Elizabeth F. Echavarria

San Antonio, TX

Elizabeth Francine Echavarria was born and raised on the Texas-Mexico border in Del Rio, Texas. She graduated from Del Rio High School in 1996. She completed her undergraduate career at the University of Texas at Austin and graduated in December 1999 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism. After working for four years in the financial industry with Charles Schwab, she decided to pursue her law degree and enrolled in law school at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. During her time in law school, she worked with Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid and the Bexar County Battered Women’s Shelter. Elizabeth graduated from St. Mary’s Law School in May 2007 with a Juris Doctorate and was licensed to practice in November that same year. Elizabeth began her legal career as a prosecutor for the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office in 2008, where she worked until 2010. Since then, she has focused her practice on immigration law, primarily in the areas of legalization, citizenship, and work visas. During her career she has also been involved in pro-bono events to encourage and assist lawful permanent residents to become U.S. citizens. She is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and licensed to practice in the United States District Court of the Western District of Texas. She has been a guest presenter for various events, including the Bexar County Paralegal’s Association and Boerne Bar Association to provide information on current issues and changes to immigration law in the United States. Elizabeth is a compassionate and dedicated attorney who loves her work helping the immigrant community and their families.

Jadeann B. Martinez

Dallas, TX

As a first-generation Mexican American woman, Jadeann B. Martinez has always had a passion to help those in need, especially the Hispanic community as they are often underrepresented. Jadeann began her legal career working in immigration law, where she advocated for individuals in immigration court and before other immigration officials. Her desire to help others has prompted her to expand into other areas of law, namely personal injury, as she believes it is important that those who have been injured have access to proper representation, regardless of background, socio-economic status, or upbringing. As a Spanish speaker, Jadeann can effectively communicate with clients about their needs or concerns.

John T. Carter, III

Jacksonville, NC

I was born and raised in Jacksonville and am a lifelong resident of Onslow County. I have been in general practice for eighteen years with the firm Lanier Fountain & Ceruzzi. My practice is focused primarily on assisting clients with traffic related matters and driving while impaired charges, as well as criminal defense of misdemeanor and felony offenses at both the District and Superior Court levels. In addition, I provide legal services relating to juvenile matters, expunctions, personal injury cases, simple wills, and uncontested divorces and separation agreements. I am an active member in good standing with the Onslow County and North Carolina Bar Associations.

Matthew Hillix is a trial lawyer dedicated to advocating for injured victims, having recovered millions for clients. He earned his B.A. from UC San Diego in 2010 and his J.D. from Loyola Law School in 2015, graduating with honors. He is a member of the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys, the Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles, and the American Association for Justice.

Michael J. Guerra

Brownsville, TX

Michael J. Guerra was born and raised in Brownsville, Texas. He attended Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Science with a focus on Criminal Justice in 2007. Shortly after, he attended Thurgood Marshall School of Law in Houston, Texas, where he earned his Juris Doctor in 2011. Upon passing the Texas Bar, Mr. Guerra returned home to Brownsville to serve the people of his community as an Assistant District Attorney at the Cameron County District Attorney’s Office. During his tenure at the District Attorney’s Office, Mr. Guerra handled, prepared, and tried various criminal matters ranging from Class C Misdemeanors up to Capital Felonies. Mr. Guerra ultimately became the Chief Felony Prosecutor for Judge Janet Leal of the 103rd Judicial District Court in Cameron County. Mr. Guerra joined Lawler • Leandro in June 2018. Since joining Lawler • Leandro, he has become an effective and respected advocate, managing a docket of approximately 70 cases. Mr. Guerra handles motor vehicle accidents, premises liability cases, trucking cases, construction defect lawsuits and medical malpractice lawsuits. Mr. Guerra has been a member of the Cameron County Young Lawyers Association as well as a Board Member of the Cameron County Bar Association. Mr. Guerra is admitted to practice law in the State of Texas, as well as the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. Mr. Guerra is also fluent in Spanish.

Marvin Bergman has been practicing personal injury law for more than 60 years, recovering tens of millions of dollars for clients. He founded his practice in 1957 in Jamaica Queens, and the firm now represents accident victims across New York State. He imparts his invaluable litigation experience to his partners and staff.

Matthew E. Dumas

Brownsburg, IN

Matthew E. Dumas handles personal injury cases statewide, including car crashes, motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, premises liability, and dog bites. He also practices family law, covering divorces, paternity, custody, parenting time, and child support, as well as estate planning, including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney.

Travis Gerber

Elko, NV

Travis Gerber is a fifth-generation Nevadan from Elko County. He and his brother Zach carry on the family legacy started by their father, A. Grant Gerber. Travis knew from a young age he wanted to be an attorney and has gained extensive experience in both business and law. After law school, he served as a court master, an experience that, coupled with his background in local business, provides him with valuable insight for representing individuals and businesses. He is fluent in Spanish.

Allan Charles VanDeMark

Ithaca, NY

Born in Lockport, New York, I hold an undergraduate degree from Fairfield University and a law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School, where I graduated cum laude. I was an Assistant District Attorney in Chemung County, New York and now a partner with Williamson, Clune & Stevens. I specialize in personal injury and criminal defense. I am the Past President of the Board of Directors of the YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County and the Past President of the Board of Directors of the Alcohol and Drug Council of Tompkins County. I live in Ithaca with my wife and two sons and enjoy coaching youth lacrosse and baseball.

Joseph Steven Bloodworth

Macon, GA

Joseph Steven Bloodworth is the Owner and Managing Attorney at Bloodworth, Crowley & Leverett. He earned his Juris Doctor from Florida Coastal School of Law in 2005 and a B.S. in Business Administration from Oglethorpe University in 2002. He is admitted to practice in Florida (2006) and Georgia (2008). He previously worked at Bush, Crowley & Leverett and Vernis & Bowling. He received a Book Award in Products and Premises Liability and a Best Oral Argument Award.

Kevin Hahn

Tustin, CA

Kevin Hahn, a founding partner of Hahn Attorneys, LLP, graduated from UCLA and Chapman University School of Law. He served as a Judicial Extern and was admitted to practice law in California in 2004, Arizona in 2006, and Nevada in 2006. He has experience representing bankruptcy panel trustees, creditors, and financial institutions, and currently primarily represents debtors in bankruptcy. Mr. Hahn also successfully litigates personal injury claims.

Michelle Zhu

Seattle, WA

Michelle Zhu is a versatile attorney and a passionate advocate for individual rights. She specializes in complex litigation with a focus on consumer class actions, data breach litigation, and whistleblower lawsuits. She has a longstanding and deep commitment to women’s rights and the broader community, earning an Outstanding Pro Bono Distinction upon graduation. Her diverse legal journey includes experience with the California Attorney General’s Office, Wikimedia Foundation, U.S. Air Force JAG Corps, San Francisco District Attorney’s Office, and a global accounting firm.

Peter Cawthon

Bedford, TX

Peter W. Cawthon IV is of counsel for Martinez Hsu, working with the firm's Construction, First Party Plaintiff Insurance, and Personal Injury areas of practice. He graduated from the Texas Tech University School of Law and is admitted to practice in various Federal District courts. Peter has a unique background in commercial construction, providing a distinct perspective to his legal work. He was raised in Oaxaca, Mexico, and speaks fluent Spanish.

Gabriel Navarro, Esq. is an attorney at The Ward Law Group, PL, a Florida & New York law firm representing victims of car accidents. Gabriel Navarro, Esq. is part of our pre-litigation team, helping our clients involved in accidents find the compensation they deserve. He also has experience with litigation cases as well. He specializes in assisting victims of accidents in finding balance for any financial losses, work interruptions, and emotional distress caused by being in an accident. Gabriel Navarro, Esq. has extensive experience helping victims of accidents get justice. Gabriel’s belief in the transformative power of attorneys inspired his journey, fueling a commitment to represent individuals in challenging circumstances.

Armen Kiramijyan

Glendale, CA

Armen Kiramijyan serves as lead counsel at KAASS Law, licensed in California, New York, Texas, Utah, and Washington, D.C. He holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Economics from USC and a JD from California Western School of Law. He has over a decade of experience and is admitted to practice before various courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.

Alexander Guttieres

Miami, FL

Alexander Guttieres is Of Counsel at Perkins Law Offices, with over thirty years of experience as a litigator and transactional attorney. He is licensed to practice in Florida and Italy, handling a broad range of civil and criminal matters in the United States and throughout the European Union. His extensive professional experience in common law and civil law systems, international background, and proficiency in multiple languages make him uniquely qualified for complex litigation, commercial transactions, and family disputes across varied jurisdictions.

Louis “Manny” Hillman-Waller

Miami, FL

Louis “Manny” Hillman-Waller has conducted over 300 mediations in all types of civil matters. He is available to conduct mediations entirely in Spanish. His law practice has been primarily concentrated in the areas of commercial and corporate representation with an emphasis on international transactional and litigation work for both domestic and multi-national entities. He also has experience in Sports and Entertainment law and probate litigation. Mr. Hillman-Waller is available to mediate all types of commercial and business related civil disputes.

Matthew David Best

Winter Park, FL

Matthew David Best is a trial lawyer born and raised in Orlando, Florida. He earned a B.S. in Criminology from Florida State University and graduated magna cum laude from Barry University School of Law, where he served on the Editorial Board of the Barry Law Review. While in law school, he prosecuted cases as a Certified Legal Intern with the Office of the State Attorney for the Ninth Judicial Circuit, gaining early courtroom experience. After law school, Mr. Best practiced at a plaintiff’s firm representing injured clients in motor-vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability, slip-and-fall, and other negligence matters-recovering millions of dollars for clients across Florida. He later joined one of the nation’s largest firms, where he represented homeowners in disputes with their own insurance carriers. Since 2022, Mr. Best has been with Payne Law, PLLC, where he continues to advocate for individuals and businesses in first-party property disputes involving wrongfully denied or underpaid claims. He also represents clients injured through no fault of their own. Known for meticulous preparation and client-centered advocacy, he is committed to securing accountability and just results against large corporations and insurers.

Tate J. Kunkle

New York, NY

Tate J. Kunkle is a senior associate with Douglas & London, focusing on environmental and mass toxic tort litigation. He helps cities, counties, water districts, and individuals recover from environmental pollutants. Mr. Kunkle holds a J.D. and an LL.M. in Environmental Law from Pace University School of Law, which is ranked number one in the country for environmental law. He is admitted to practice in New York and Connecticut, as well as several federal district courts and the Second Circuit Court of Appeals.

Raji S Zeidan is the principal attorney at The Law Office of Raji S Zeidan PC, with over 15 years of experience in criminal defense and personal injury law. He is known for his personalized approach, ensuring clients receive dedicated attention and strong legal representation.