English-Speaking Attorneys

Fernando R. Cruz

San Antonio, TX

Fernando R. Cruz is a first-generation American who was born and raised in San Antonio’s Southside. He graduated from Burbank High School then completed undergraduate studies at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, where he was elected by the student body to the Student Senate as Hispanic Senator and received his B.A. in Political Science. In 1998, Fernando received a Juris Doctorate degree from Drake Law School in Des Moines, Iowa, where he served as President of the Hispanic Law Student Association. For seven years, Fernando honed his trial experience as a litigator specializing in insurance defense. He has tried numerous personal injury cases to verdict, primarily in Bexar, Nueces and Maverick counties. Since then, Fernando has represented individuals and families who have been injured or have lost loved ones due to the negligence of others. Fernando’s commitment to community service and dedication to the law were inspired by Mexican parents who came to the United States in pursuit of happiness through hard and honest work and civic responsibility. Fernando practices in the area of personal injury trial. He is licensed by the State Bar of Texas and is admitted to practice before the U.S. District Courts for the Western District of Texas. His legal affiliations include the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, San Antonio Trial Lawyers Association, San Antonio Bar Association, and Mexican American Bar Association. Fernando is a strong supporter of ACTS Missions of San Antonio and has an unwavering commitment to inspiring San Antonio’s under-privileged youth to reach their full potential. Fernando is sought after as a motivational speaker and has spoken to hundreds of students at numerous schools throughout San Antonio.

Jacqueline M. Thomas

Rochester, NY

Jacqueline is a Partner in Lacy Katzen’s Litigation Group and Chair of the firm’s Personal Injury Litigation Department. A trial attorney for over 25 years, her practice is focused in personal injury civil litigation, including medical and hospital malpractice, surgical errors, birth injuries, nursing home negligence and abuse, motor vehicle, trucking and motorcycle accidents, wrongful death, premises liability, construction site accidents and dog bite cases. She also represents insurance policy holders in coverage dispute litigation and is Chair of the firm’s Risk Management Committee.

Patrick Yancey

Houma, LA

A native of Houma, Louisiana, Patrick Yancey obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering from Louisiana Tech University. He worked offshore as a roustabout and later as an operations and facilities engineer with Mobil Oil. After six years, he resigned from Mobil Oil and enrolled in the Juris Doctorate program at Loyola University, New Orleans, where he obtained his degree and worked as a law clerk for Judge Edward J. Gaidry. As a Trial Lawyer, Mr. Yancey treats each client with dignity and respect and utilizes all available resources to produce the best results that can be achieved for his clients. Since 1996, Patrick Yancey has represented many people who have been injured or killed as a result of someone else’s fault. He has handled injury cases related to working offshore in the oil and gas industry, 18 wheeler crashes, car crashes, airplane/helicopter crashes, drilling rigs, tugboats, supply boats, jackup boats, diving vessels, derrick barges, pipe laying barges, industrial/refinery explosions and other industrial casualties, defective products, including defective medication and exposure to chemicals in the work environment, including asbestosis (which causes mesothelioma, a deadly form of cancer).

Gregg M. Hollander

Boca Raton, FL

Gregg M. Hollander is a Florida native and the lead attorney at Hollander Law Firm. He passionately advocates for accident victims throughout South Florida and nationwide. With over 28 years of experience, he has committed his legal practice to asserting the rights of individuals injured by the negligence of others, guiding them through the process of pursuing damages for personal injuries and wrongful death.

Martin J. Hernandez has been practicing law since 2001, with over 100 jury trials. He specializes in auto accidents, personal injury, and wrongful death claims, known for aggressively pursuing justice for victims. He previously served as a prosecutor in Tampa (2000-2004). He is an Eagle member of the Florida Justice Association and has received multiple 'Best Lawyer' awards from the Tampa Bay Times. He is fluent in Spanish and actively involved in community organizations.

Victor F. Poulos, J.D.

Las Cruces, NM

Victor F. Poulos is a managing attorney and trial attorney at Poulos & Coates, LLP. He has extensive jury trial experience as lead counsel in various litigation types, including medical malpractice. He served in the United States Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps and has argued appeals before multiple state and federal courts. He has been recognized as a 'Texas Super Lawyer' and holds an AV Rating from Martindale-Hubbell.

Ira M. Maurer

Fishkill, NY

Ira M. Maurer is a nationally-recognized personal injury trial lawyer with over 45 years of experience, having won over $100 million for his clients. He was admitted to the New York bar in 1980 and is also admitted to practice in federal courts in New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey. He is known for his technical savvy and medical knowledge, and has a prestigious history of winning major legal victories, particularly in railroad law.

Mark W. Malzahn

St. Michael, MN

Mark W. Malzahn began his legal career as a prosecuting attorney. After a family member was severely injured in a car accident and experienced difficulties with the insurance company, he shifted his focus to representing personal injury victims. He has over 30 years of experience handling cases ranging from traumatic brain injuries to wrongful death, successfully securing recoveries against insurance companies and large corporations. Mr. Malzahn is a Civil Trial Specialist certified by the Minnesota State Bar Association, a distinction held by less than 3% of Minnesota lawyers. He is admitted to practice law in Minnesota and Wisconsin, as well as the United States Federal District Court for the District of Minnesota and the United States Court of Appeals, 8th Circuit. He has been recognized as a Super Lawyer every year from 2009-2019.

Alan L. Perez

Sarasota, FL

Alan Perez - Board-Certified Civil Trial Expert. Innovator. Relentless Advocate. Alan Perez brings the perfect blend of legal mastery, innovative thinking, and personal dedication to every case he handles. Board Certified by The Florida Bar as an expert in Civil Trial Law-a distinction held by less than 1% of Florida attorneys-Alan has proven himself at the highest level of courtroom excellence. With a fierce commitment to justice, Alan represents injury victims across Florida in cases involving auto accidents, falls, medical malpractice, nursing home negligence, and institutional physical and sexual abuse. Known for his dynamic presence in the courtroom, he integrates advanced technology into every phase of litigation and trial-creating compelling visuals, leveraging data, and presenting evidence with clarity and impact. Clients trust Alan not just for his legal skills, but for his personal investment in their stories. He offers each client direct, one-on-one attention, building relationships that fuel powerful advocacy and generate consistent referrals. Alan is admitted to practice in all Florida state courts, the Federal Middle District of Florida, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court. His excellence has been recognized by Florida Super Lawyers Magazine every year since 2012 - a testament to his integrity, skill, and results. Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, Alan serves a broad range of clients, ensuring that language is never a barrier to justice. He is a proud graduate of St. Mary’s University of San Antonio, Texas and the University of Dayton School of Law in Dayton, Ohio. Outside the courtroom, Alan is a leader in both legal and community circles. He serves on the Boards of the Sarasota County Bar Association, the Florida Justice Association, and the American Red Cross (Southwest Florida Division). He also holds leadership roles with the Judge John M. Scheb American Inn of Court and has contributed his time to several judicial and fairness committees statewide. Alan lives in Manatee County with his wife and three children. He enjoys waterfowl hunting, sports, coaching mock trial at Booker High School, and helping local families-especially Spanish-speaking households-with legal and financial literacy efforts.

William Sand

St Paul, MN

Bill Sand is a founding partner of Sand Law, LLC. As a litigator, he represents individuals who have suffered serious injuries. Bill attended college at Hamline University, where he served as captain of the men’s baseball team. He then attended law school at the University of San Diego, where he was awarded the Honorable Louis M. Welsh Endowed Scholarship. This award is given to the person who best exemplifies the highest ethical standards and believes in the humanity of the law and who demonstrates a “passionate desire to fulfill a lifelong dream of becoming a trial lawyer.” While in law school, Bill spent time with the public defender’s office, worked for a civil litigation firm, and authored published articles pertaining to various state agencies. After law school, Bill entered the field of child advocacy law and helped obtain millions of dollars in services for children. He later turned his focus to personal injury law and began experiencing similar results. Bill has experienced uncommon success with an abnormally high success rate for his clients at all stages of litigation, from jury verdicts to judicial rulings. Outside of the law, Bill enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing music, and coaching amateur baseball. His community involvement includes coaching Special Olympics, volunteering at care centers for the elderly, and founding several youth baseball camps.

Ayensa I. Millan

Phoenix, AZ

Ayensa I. Millan is the Managing Attorney, Founder, and CEO of Cima Law Group, with over 10 years of experience in personal injury, criminal, and immigration law. She is recognized for her compassionate representation and community involvement, receiving awards like '40 Hispanic Leaders Under 40' (2014) and 'Best Lawyers of America' (2024). She holds degrees from Arizona State University and Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, and is licensed in Arizona and federal courts.

Brian Brandt

Capistrano Beach, CA

Brian Brandt is a well-known and respected California personal injury attorney with three decades of experience representing accident victims. He is known for his tireless work ethic, personalized attention, and securing sizable settlements and verdicts, including a record $150 million wrongful death verdict in California. He graduated from the University of California Santa Barbara in 1984 with a BA and from the University of Santa Clara’s Law School in 1987, being admitted to the California State Bar the same year. Brian and his team are passionate about fighting for victims against large insurance companies.

David Gray

Indio, CA

David Gray was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. David earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy with Honors from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1979. He was initiated into Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society. During his undergraduate years, David volunteered reading for the blind at the Red Cross. He received his J.D. at Western State University College of Law in San Diego. His extensive legal background encompasses: The Work Injury Lawyers Advocacy Group (WILG) A National Non-Profit Organization: RECOGNIZING DAVID AS ONE OF THE BEST WORK INJURY LAWYERS IN THE NATION. Member of 8 Appellate Courts. California Bar Association. Georgia Bar Association. Los Angeles Superior Court Mediation Officer for the Court’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Division (ADR). Served as a “Pro Tem” Court Commissioner. National Network Of Estate Planning Attorneys (NNEPA). David also Volunteered as a Small Claims Court Advisor. Claims Adjuster with State Farm Insurance (handling all types of accidents involving Bodily Injuries (BI), PD(Property Damage?) and Medical Payment Coverages (MedPay). David enjoys spending time with his wife of over 31 years, and being a dedicated father to his two beautiful adult children, sharing memories with his family, as well as his passion for helping people through his practice. He got introduced to the legal profession at the tender age of 5 from his father who was an Attorney and Court Commissioner. David S. Gray, founder of DG Law Group, is a multi‑jurisdictional attorney admitted in California and Georgia. Having recovered millions for his clients, David and Staff are deeply committed to making legal support approachable, respectful, and effective. He and his bilingual team (Hablamos Español) focus on empowering each client through transparency and compassion. David Gray has 35+ years of experience.

Peter C. Wachowski

Park Ridge, IL

Peter C. Wachowski is a highly experienced and respected personal injury lawyer and partner at Bellas & Wachowski. He has over 30 years of experience, is known for his dedication to clients, strong litigation skills, and commitment to the community. He has achieved numerous multi-million dollar settlements and has been recognized as one of 'Forty Chicago Lawyers Under Forty to Watch'. He is fluent in Polish and English.

Steven P. Sabra

Somerset, MA

Attorney Steven P. Sabra has over 45 years of experience, concentrating in personal injury, workers' compensation, and criminal defense. He is a past president of the Fall River and Bristol County Bar Associations, a member of the Board of Bar Overseers, and a lecturer in personal injury law. He has received the St. Thomas More Distinguished Attorney Award and has been named a 'SuperLawyer' since 2018.

Richard P. Renehan

Waterbury, CT

Richard has over 31 years of experience representing injury victims and has recovered millions of dollars for his clients. Richard is passionate about helping his injured clients and has achieved many million dollar verdicts and settlements. Rick has been a Connecticut and New England Super Lawyer since 2007 and is a respected arbiter, mediator and fact finder. Rick handles injury cases in State and Federal Courts in Connecticut as well as in the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. The primary focus of Mr. Renehan’s practice is personal injury and wrongful death litigation. Throughout his distinguished career, he has assisted clients who have been harmed due to the negligence of other parties, and his caseload has included motor vehicle crashes, nursing home negligence, premises liability and medical malpractice. Along the way, his clients have received millions of dollars in compensation as a result of Mr. Renehan’s skills in presenting cases before juries, his tenacity in negotiating favorable settlement agreements, and his successes in mediation sessions and before arbitration panels. Mr. Renehan has also helped people who have been injured on the job and who are now seeking their rightful benefits under their employer’s workers’ compensation insurance coverage. He assists them with the preparation and filing of the required claim documentation and appears on their behalf at hearings in the event that the claim is disputed or denied. Mr. Renehan’s successful track record in all of his professional endeavors has earned him a great deal of favorable recognition from his fellow attorneys, including an AV Preeminent* peer-review rating through Martindale-Hubbell and a “Superb” rating through Avvo. He has also been selected for inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America.

David A. Shekhter

Port Orange, FL

Attorney David Shekhter has displayed competence in every area of law he practices. As a personal injury litigator and criminal defense attorney, clients have found him informative and efficient, guiding them through the process and taking special care for those who have zero experience in the legal realm. In this effort, Mr. Shekhter does his utmost to keep his clients informed. He has helped clients through various cases involving citizenship, deportation, criminal defense, and automobile accidents. Your case can leave you with a lot of questions, and he wants you in the loop. David Shekhter is a Daytona native. Born to Russian parents, he has fluent knowledge of both the English and Russian languages. A Florida resident all his life, he attended various schools in the state and finished off with a Juris Doctorate of Law from Stetson University College of Law. Not long after, Mr. Shekhter joined Politis & Matovina, P.A. in 2010 as a Daytona Beach personal injury attorney, where he also practices criminal defense and immigration law. He is recognized as a lifetime member of Million Dollar & Multi Million Dollar Advocates Forum, a member of the Florida Bar, American Immigration Lawyers Association, and the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

Johnny Phillips

Atlanta, GA

Johnny Phillips is the founding attorney of the Law Office of Johnny Phillips, serving the people of Georgia as a personal injury attorney. He is a veteran, having served eight years in the Air Force as an investigator and Security Forces officer. He earned an Associate in Criminal Justice from the Community College of the Air Force, a Bachelor of Liberal Studies in Political Science magna cum laude from Armstrong Atlantic State University, and a Juris Doctor from Georgia State University School of Law, where he graduated in the top five percent of his class. He gained valuable legal experience at several Atlanta law firms before founding his own practice, where he aggressively advocates for clients' rights and full compensation.

Joe Lopez

Austin, TX

Joe Lopez is a personal injury trial lawyer and the lead trial attorney at Joe Lopez Law, which he founded in 2015. He began practicing law in 2003 and is dedicated to representing individuals who have suffered significant injuries, including spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and wrongful deaths. Joe is board-certified and fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing him to connect deeply with his clients. He is recognized by prestigious organizations such as National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates, and has been named a Texas Super Lawyer.

Matthew C. Stano

Humble, TX

As Owner and Managing Attorney of The Stano Law Firm, Matt has represented thousands of injured Texans. Matt has gone up against the largest insurance companies and recovered millions of dollars for his clients. No injury is too big or too small for Matt. He takes pride in being a tough negotiator, competent trial lawyer and advocate for all clients of The Stano Law Firm. Before opening The Stano Law Firm, Matt Stano was a Texas Prosecutor. Working for the District Attorney’s Office, he fought for the rights of Texans and prosecuted hundreds of cases. Matt Stano is no stranger to trial and has extensive courtroom experience. In 2016, Matt opened The Stano Law Firm with his wife Adelaida. The firm started out with zero clients. However, one by one, people started to call when they heard about Stano’s focus on customer service. In those early years, Matt treated every client like they had the most important case in Texas. The Stano Law Firm continues this tradition by making sure cases are pushed forward aggressively, giving clients proper attention and fighting the insurance company when they refuse to cooperate. Matt believes clients are the most important part of his business. There is no business without the clients.

Michael P. McCready

Chicago, IL

Michael P. McCready has been practicing law since 1992 and is the managing partner of McCready Law, which he opened in 1999. He is licensed in Virginia, Illinois, and Indiana, and also practices in federal courts, including the United States Supreme Court. He is a member of various professional organizations and has been inducted into the Million Dollar Advocacy Forum. Michael focuses on personal injury cases such as car accidents, workers' compensation, bus accidents, truck accidents, and wrongful deaths. He also consults with other personal injury law firms and lectures on law firm management, technology, automation, and the role of AI in the legal industry, leveraging his 30 years of experience.

Rhonda Hatfield-Jeffers

Somerset, KY

Rhonda Hatfield-Jeffers is an attorney with over 23 years of experience representing injured individuals in Kentucky. She obtained her J.D. from Louis D. Brandeis School of Law, University of Louisville in 1999 and her B.A. from the University of Kentucky in 1995. She is admitted to practice in Kentucky and federal courts, and is a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum and The National Trial Lawyers Top 100.

Jennie Levin

Los Angeles, CA

Jennie Levin is a Los Angeles personal injury and wrongful death attorney, and founder of Law Offices of Jennie Levin, P.C. A graduate of U.C. Berkeley School of Law, she previously worked for a top 60 law firm, representing major pharmaceutical companies and corporations. She is known for her trial-tested advocacy, aggressive representation, and a proven track record of securing millions in settlements for her clients. She is also a multilingual attorney.

P.J. Mitchell

Miami, FL

P.J. Mitchell is the founder and an equity partner at Mitchell & West, LLC. He represents individuals in civil and criminal matters, including car accidents, traumatic brain injuries, negligent security actions, premises liability, product liability, medical malpractice, wrongful death claims, and cases involving Fourth Amendment violations. He has tried over forty cases to conclusion. He is licensed in Florida and Louisiana and practices in various state and federal courts. He is a life member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and has been recognized by Super Lawyers. He is also active in the local community, having served as former president of the Coral Gables Bar Association.