English-Speaking Attorneys

Mary Margaret Keys

Baton Rouge, LA

Mary Margaret Keys grew up in South Florida. She earned her Juris Doctor and Diploma in Comparative Law from LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center in 2020. She was active in student organizations, including the Public Interest Law Society, and volunteered with Capital Area CASA, receiving the Ginger Berrigan Worker Bee Award. After law school, she advocated for adult and juvenile mental health and children in foster care. She joined Bianca | Matkins in June 2024 as an associate attorney, continuing her passion for helping those unable to advocate for themselves.

Emile P. Sayegh

Yonkers, NY

Emile Paul Sayegh is the managing partner of Sayegh & Sayegh, P.C. Practicing law for more than 30 years, he focuses on matrimonial, business, real estate and commercial law. He has worked extensively in matters involving business transactions both on a corporate and individual level. For the past ten years, he continues to serve as general legal counsel to a large religious Archdiocese here in New York, handling matters pertaining to business issues and a myriad of religious organization issues throughout the United States. He has argued, successfully, cases before the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division for First and Second Departments. Conveying a strong sense of commitment and dedication to his clients, Mr. Sayegh continues to have a passion in his law practice that results in his success as an attorney.

Loann S. Meekins

Shelby, NC

Loann S. Meekins is an attorney focusing on Wills, Estates, and Guardianships. She graduated cum laude from Meredith College in 1985 with a B.A. in Social Work and Religion. She received her J.D. from Campbell University in 1988, where she was Articles Editor for Campbell Law Review and a member of the National Moot Court Team. She has served as a Volunteer Judge in the Cleveland County Teen Court Program for 15+ years and on the Board of the Shelby YMCA.

Michael Manolakis

New York, NY

Michael Manolakis se unió al bufete jurídico en el 2002 como asociado e inmediatamente se convirtió en una parte vital del equipo de Liga De Justicia. Manolakis maneja un número importante de casos de lesiones personales y trabaja en estrecha colaboración con los asistentes legales para asegurarse que cada archivo es procesado y litigado en forma adecuada y eficiente. El abogado Manolakis se dedica exclusivamente a los casos de accidentes y lesiones personales.

Michelle Kingsley

Las Vegas, NV

Michelle Kingsley is a personal injury lawyer at De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers. A first-generation American from Henderson/Las Vegas, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in History from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 2015. She then obtained her Juris Doctor from the William S. Boyd School of Law in 2019. While at Boyd, Michelle was a member and Articles Editor for the Nevada Law Journal and authored a published student note. She also served as a student attorney at the Education Clinic and volunteered with the Kids’ Court School. Michelle was admitted to the Nevada Bar and the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada in 2019. She previously clerked for U.S. District Court Judge George Foley, Jr. and Eighth Judicial District Court Judge Tierra Jones, and rejoined De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers as an attorney in 2020.

Shannon Mendez Smith

Abilene, TX

Shannon brings 26 years of experience in partnering with attorneys in all phases of legal representation. She has assisted attorneys in voir dire, trials, litigation, and mediations in personal injury law, family law and criminal law. Shannon has been on a winning team in a multi-million-dollar lawsuit more than once. She grew up in Baird, Texas, a small town in Callahan County where she later moved to Abilene, Texas to pursue her career in paralegal studies. Shannon has been a member of the Paralegal Division State Bar of Texas since 2014 and received an award from The Pro Bono College of the State Bar of Texas for making outstanding contributions to the delivery of legal services to low-income Texans. In June 2023, Shannon was elected by the Paralegal Division State Bar of Texas as Director of District 11 and liaison to the Secretary of State Notary Division. As Director for District 11, Shannon acts as a liaison and representative for local paralegal associations, local paralegal schools, local bar associations and legal professional associations within her district. She attends board meetings, numerous seminars, and continuing education courses. Shannon is a leader in the paralegal community. She is the finding founder of Big Country Legal Eagles and co-founder of Big Country Legal Assistants. Shannon is very friendly, outgoing and has never met a stranger. Taking care of her clients provides her with a great deal of satisfaction. She finds enjoyment in the fact that clients can rely on her and knows that she will be advocating for them. Shannon is happily married and on her days off she enjoys spending time with family and friends. Shannon’s hobby is CrossFit. She has competed in CrossFit Open Games and has competed in an all-women’s CrossFit fitness competition. Shannon strives for a challenge!

Brandon Gomez

Sacramento, CA

Brandon Gomez joined Curtis Legal Group as an Associate Attorney in 2024. Mr. Gomez obtained his bachelor’s degree in psychology, with a minor in legal studies, from San Jose State University. He went on to obtain his juris doctor from Santa Clara University School of Law. While in law school, Mr. Gomez was awarded a CALI Excellence for the Future Award in e-Discovery and interned as a law clerk assisting with plaintiff consumer protection and personal injury cases. He has participated in various legal clinics, including the Consumer Law clinic at Katharine & George Alexander Community Law Center and the Record Clearance Project at San Jose State University. After obtaining his law license, Mr. Gomez worked as an attorney at a Sacramento law firm practicing several areas of law. He litigated plaintiff personal injury cases, small business and law enforcement defense cases, provided civil case monitoring, and assisted with small business acquisition transactions. Shortly after becoming an attorney, Mr. Gomez was selected as a 2024 Super Lawyers - Northern California, Rising Stars Honoree. At Curtis Legal Group, Mr. Gomez now focuses exclusively on plaintiff personal injury cases, where he represents clients in all phases of their claims. He is bilingual in English and Spanish, and fervently advocates for his clients.

Lisa E. Ivancich

Antioch, CA

Lisa E. Ivancich is the managing partner of Ivancich & Costis, LLP. She is a Board Certified Specialist in Workers' Compensation and has been recognized as a Northern California Super Lawyer. She graduated from UCLA and Golden Gate Law School.

Vanessa Gilmore

Houston, TX

Hon. Vanessa D. Gilmore (USDJ Ret.) is a former United States District Judge with a distinguished 27-year career, known for handling complex matters including patents, labor, employment, and securities class actions. She was the youngest sitting federal judge in the nation and the first University of Houston Law Center graduate appointed to the federal bench. Before her judicial service, she specialized in civil litigation for thirteen years. Now at Roberts Markland LLP, she brings her extensive experience to the firm, also serving on several boards including Texas Children’s Hospital and DePelchin Children’s Center.

Diane Doh

Greenwood, AR

Diane Doh is an attorney at Walters, Allison, Parker & Estell in Greenwood, Arkansas, whose practice encompasses a broad range of civil, domestic, real estate, and probate matters, including divorce, custody, adoptions, guardianships, estate planning, contract negotiations and disputes, and personal injury. While in law school, Diane served as a member of the Oklahoma Law Review and served as a legal intern in the civil clinic for two semesters. While working as an intern, Diane gained valuable, hands-on experience assisting individuals in need of legal representation in domestic and probate matters. Diane was also the recipient of several scholarships and honors, including the OU Law Clinic Distinguished Intern, OU Law Pro Bono 3L Top Hours Recipient, and Values Public Interest Fellow. Since joining the Walters firm, Diane has litigated numerous cases with success, particularly in the areas of divorce, custody, and guardianships. She uses her knowledge and diligence to advise her clients intelligently and thoughtfully.

Douglas J. Phebus

Bel Air, MD

Douglas J. Phebus is a personal injury lawyer and Partner/Shareholder at Arellano & Phebus, S.C. The firm has over 40 years of combined experience and is known for fighting for maximum compensation for clients.

Eliana Aklepi

Coral Gables, FL

Eliana Aklepi is a litigation attorney handling passenger personal injury, sexual assault, and crewmember cases. Eliana prioritizes working closely with clients, ensuring their stories are heard. Eliana’s undergraduate degree from Drexel University allowed her to work with artists, helping them avoid exploitative contracts. This work sparked her desire to fight corporations with abusive labor practices.

Christopher Delgado

Miami, FL

For attorney Christopher Delgado, Esq., understanding the needs and experiences of his clients is the first step in providing the best possible service, especially in an area as sensitive and complex as Immigration. His talent as a litigator and negotiator makes him an excellent addition to the Gallardo Law Firm team. Mr. Delgado obtained his Juris Doctor degree from the School of Law at the American University, a private institution located in Washington, D.C., United States. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida International University, with a major in International Relations, a minor in Political Science, and a Legal Assistant Certificate. As part of his academic training, he completed an internship as a student attorney before the Landlord and Tenant Branch of the Superior Court of Washington, D.C., representing tenants. He has also testified before the Human Services Committee of the Council of the District of Columbia. Mr. Delgado was also the Director of Communications of the Student Bar Association (SBA).

Gipsy Sosa

Miami, FL

Gipsy Sosa Valdes is a dedicated immigration attorney with a robust background in criminal justice and extensive experience in navigating complex immigration proceedings. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she is committed to providing exceptional legal services to her clients and reuniting families through her expertise in immigration law. The lawyer Gipsy Sosa Valdes earned her Juris Doctor (JD) in May 2023. During her time there, she was actively involved in the Hispanic American Law Student Association (HALSA) and Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity. She also obtained a Certificate in Immigration Practice. As an Associate Attorney at Gallardo Law Firm, Gipsy navigates complex immigration proceedings, assists clients in adjusting their status before Citizenship and Immigration Services and immigration courts, conducts legal research, and drafts pleadings, motions, and briefs. She is dedicated to helping bring families together through her legal expertise.

Salomón Valladares

Miami, FL

Salomón's professional experience in different areas of the law has given him special preparation to solve cases of great complexity. His skills in areas like Civil Law, Family Law, and Criminal Law have made him one of the most versatile lawyers in our firm. Family Law cases are particularly delicate. The emotions involved often turn these processes into bitter disputes. Salomón is known for providing his clients with a service that's performed with the utmost empathy and diplomacy, making burdensome processes lighter to navigate. This is achieved while keeping the expertise and shrewdness that are the trademarks of great lawyers. His practice is also characterized by the understanding that a good lawyer-client relationship is fundamental to success in legal disputes. Salomón demonstrates professional dexterity by handling Civil and Criminal Law, two of the most complicated branches of justice. His passion for advocacy works in his clients' favor to achieve the best terms possible for each case.

Maritza M. Antu

Houston, TX

Maritza M. Antu is a criminal defense attorney with over 18 years of legal experience, including roles as a former chief prosecutor and criminal judge. She has successfully handled over 430 case dismissals and tried more than 72 jury trials. Maritza is fluent in both English and Spanish, providing legal guidance to a diverse clientele.

Danielle Ross

Scranton, PA

Danielle is one of the most experienced lawyers in Northeastern Pennsylvania in the area of Family Law, successfully handling thousands of cases involving divorce, custody or adoption. Over the course of her career, she has expanded her practice to Immigration Law and Criminal Law and now offers all of her legal services in both English and En español- Immigration, Criminal, Removal/Deportation, Divorce, Custody, Adoption.

George “Bo” Sanford

Knoxville, TN

Bo received his undergraduate degree in political science from the University of Tennessee and later attended the University of Tennessee College of Law, where he graduated magna cum laude with a Business Transactions Concentration. While in law school, Bo worked as a law clerk for the Firm and was recognized for outstanding achievement in several subjects, including Transactional Tax Planning, Negotiations, Construction Law, Title Law, and Contract Drafting. Bo is currently serving on the Board of Trustees for Christian Academy of Knoxville.

J. Gregory Ashwell

Warrenton, VA

Attorney Greg Ashwell has decades of experience serving his community through legal practice. He served as a State prosecutor for 25 years and a Virginia District Court judge for nearly 14 years. He applies the knowledge and skills learned in these endeavors to achieve positive results for his clients. He is now a mediator and representing the people of Warrenton, Northern Virginia, and the Piedmont region in areas of wills, trusts and probate, general commercial and business issues, land use and zoning, real estate transactions, among others.

Recognized leader in estate planning, trusts and probate law. Member of the Executive Committee of the Trusts and Estates Section of the California Lawyers Association. Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law by the California State Bar since 2008. Guides families, individuals, entrepreneurs, business owners, and public figures in all aspects of estate planning, trusts and probate. Extensive experience with complex wealth transfer planning, business succession planning, special needs planning and personal privacy planning. Represents trustees, executors and beneficiaries. Authorized to practice before the IRS.

Sean H. Le

Rockville, MD

Sean H. Le was born and raised in Rockville, MD, and practices in Maryland. Specializing in DUIs, DWIs, and traffic violations, criminal defense, and personal injury, Mr. Le truly cares about his clients and is committed to delivering high-quality legal representation.

John W. Ceruzzi

Jacksonville, NC

John received his B.A. in Economics and History from Wake Forest University and his J.D. from Campbell University School of Law. He has been licensed to practice law in all North Carolina Courts since 1997, and has since been admitted to practice law in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina. John is an experienced civil litigator and criminal defense attorney, having devoted the first twenty years of his practice to trying cases before judges and juries throughout multiple counties in eastern North Carolina, though primarily in his home county of Onslow. He is also a former President of the Onslow County Bar Association. I received my certification from the North Carolina Dispute Resolution Commission to serve as a Family Financial Meditator. A former college soccer player at Wake Forest, John is still actively involved in his community through his participation as an academy soccer coach for the Onslow Classic Soccer Association. John is married with three children and three granddaughters.

Rene Gutierrez

Los Angeles, CA

Rene Gutierrez is a Litigation Attorney in The Dominguez Firm’s pre-litigation department, guiding clients through the initial stages of personal injury cases. He ensures clients receive medical care and negotiates with insurance carriers, driven by his connection to Los Angeles' diverse communities.

Richard Guzmán

Los Angeles, CA

Richard Guzmán is a dedicated Litigation Attorney at The Dominguez Firm, focusing on motor vehicle accident and premises liability cases. He brings a unique blend of philosophical insight and practical legal experience, striving for justice and fair compensation for his clients.