English-Speaking Attorneys

Dorian Gjeci

Chicago, IL

An Albanian national, Mr. Gjeci is a graduate of the Chicago-Kent College of Law, earning his Juris Doctorate in 2022. In 2019, he earned his LL.M. in International Intellectual Property from Chicago - Kent College of Law. Before coming into the U.S., Mr. Gjeci was a practicing attorney in Albania for five years, where he focused on property-land disputes, business and mining law. While attending law school, Mr. Gjeci was an extern on the Chancery Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County. In the spring of 2021, Mr. Gjeci began his U.S. legal experience as a law clerk at Whiteside & Goldberg, Ltd. Upon passing the Illinois Bar Exam as a first time taker while English being his non-native language, and upon admission to the practice of law in the State of Illinois, in January 2023, Mr. Gjeci continued his journey at Whiteside & Goldberg, Ltd. as an associate attorney. Mr. Gjeci has since represented victims of negligence in personal injury and workers compensation cases. Currently, Mr. Gjeci practices in state court and before the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission.

John W. Hillman

Chatham, NY

John W. Hillman graduated Cum Laude from Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center in 2008. He has extensive courtroom experience and litigation in criminal defense, prosecution, divorce, custody, grandparent visitation, child neglect and abuse, as well as general civil litigation including personal injury, contract disputes and landlord/tenant matters. He is admitted to the New York bar.

Juan De Pedro

Las Vegas, NV

Juan De Pedro is an attorney who has exclusively practiced Immigration Law since his admission to the Colorado Bar and the U.S. District Court of Colorado in 2007. Originally from Puerto Rico, he moved to Colorado and became a first-generation college student, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with an emphasis in Criminal Justice from Colorado State University. He then graduated from the University of Denver College of Law in 2007, where he was an active member of the Latino Law Student Association. Juan is recognized as an expert on the immigration consequences of criminal convictions in Colorado and volunteers his time for community legal aid and citizenship drives. He has successfully handled a range of cases from athletic visas to deportation defense.

Lawrence J. Schwind

Rochester, NY

Lawrence has retired from the full-time practice of law. Attorney Lawrence Schwind is a partner and the Chair of Lacy Katzen’s Family Law Department. Larry brings over 40 years of legal experience and knowledge to his clients in a wide variety of practice areas, with an emphasis on divorce and other family law matters. He also maintains a general practice of law, representing clients in residential real estate transactions, estate planning matters, estate probate and administration matters, business and contractual matters and maintains an active Municipal Law practice as attorney for the Village of Hilton.

Linda M. Coronato

Saddle Brook, NJ

Linda M. Coronato has over 27 years of experience in the legal field and is not afraid to fight for the rights of her clients. As a member of the New Jersey and New York Bars, she has handled cases involving child custody, Domestic Violence alimony, adoption, pre-nuptial agreements, as well as many other matters of family law. Her lengthy experience includes the ability to resolve difficult cases and arrive at settlement without the time and expense of continued litigation. Ms. Coronato has worked with several prestigious firms in family law and has appeared before the New Jersey Supreme Court. Ms. Coronato is fluent in English, Italian, Spanish and French, enabling her to ease communication frustrations for those clients whose native tongue is not English. With her years of experience as a New Jersey divorce lawyer, she has become a strong advocate for her clients when they are going through the trauma of a divorce or child custody battle. She is a staunch defender of victims of domestic abuse and won’t back down from challenging cases. Linda truly cares about each client she represents. Ms. Coronato knows the right questions to ask to develop a course of action to navigate her clients through their legal issues. She carefully listens to her clients. Then she gives straightforward honest advice. Ms. Coronato spends time educating her clients about the law, so they can make the right decisions. Also, one of Linda’s strongest qualities is her ability to relate to her clients. She learns all the details of each of her cases to insure each client the best representation possible. Ms. Coronato makes it a priority to understand her clients’ perspectives and effectively advocates their positions. Linda truly cares about her clients and they know it. Linda is an experienced NJ divorce attorney handling cases in and out of court. She is an effective negotiator who has successfully settled many cases. Linda has excellent communication skills and is an outstanding writer. She drafts effective legal briefs, certifications, and other legal pleadings. Ms. Coronato’s focus is to get her clients through the divorce process and on to a better future. She knows that divorce is a life-changing event and diligently represents her clients’ interests. Linda has an aggressive yet compassionate approach to each case she handles. Her first goal is to protect your rights. She delivers valued based representation, so you can achieve your goals.

Jack J. Canzoneri

Southborough, MA

Attorney Jack J. Canzoneri has practiced labor law exclusively on behalf of unions since joining the firm in 1993. With over 25 years of experience, he handles hundreds of arbitrations, including grievance and interest arbitrations for various union clients. He has extensive experience representing unions in contract negotiations and mediation, acting as chief spokesperson. Attorney Canzoneri regularly represents unions before state and federal labor agencies and has developed expertise in overtime claims under the Fair Labor Standards Act and Massachusetts Wage Act. He has argued multiple times before the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit and state appellate courts.

Scott I. Batterman

Honolulu, HI

Scott I. Batterman is a trial attorney and litigator with over 35 years of experience, practicing in federal and state courts. He has expertise in complex bankruptcy disputes, construction law, commercial law, employment discrimination, environmental law, and securities fraud claims.

Davis Taylor

Houston, TX

Attorney Davis Trent Taylor III set forth a career in law to standard of diligence in service to those of need of legal representation and preservation of individual liberties. A native Houstonian, Davis grew to love the outdoors and developed a lifelong desire for betterment of the environment and service to both the community and others through Boy Scouts, a passion for speech and academics through National Forensics League and Academic Decathlon, and an understanding of the needs for discipline and order through junior ROTC. Davis earned his B.A. in Legal Studies with a minor in Criminal Justice, graduating Summa Cum Laude at Houston Christian University. There he also achieved membership in Alpha Chi National Honor Society and the cause of the honor society: pursuing field excellence, leadership, and practice of community service helping those in need. Davis earned his law degree at South Texas College of Law of Houston where he studied both criminal and civil fields for both Federal and Texas courts with an interest on all topics that touch on civil rights and achieved a CALI award in Family Law and National Security. Prior to joining The Gonzalez Law Group, PLLC, Davis worked in the Randal O. Sorrel Clinic for access to justice. He also had the opportunity during pursuit of his degrees to intern with a Texas Civil District Court as well as a Texas County Court at Law which adjudicated civil, criminal, and probate matters. Davis regards these as enlightening experiences in seeing how the legal practice operates both from the neutral vantage position the court enjoys during trials and hearings as well as how the court functions. Before entering the practice of law, Davis worked as a programmer.

Zac Stoltz

New York, NY

Zac Stoltz's practice focuses on Employment and Business Litigation, with insight into entertainment industry legal issues. He has negotiated complex talent and guild agreements and pursued civil rights and wage claims. As a dedicated advocate for employee rights, he has spent the past two years representing workers against workplace discrimination, retaliation, harassment, wrongful termination, and pay violations. His strategic approach and meticulous attention to detail have earned him a reputation as a highly effective legal professional. Zac's passion for social justice and tenacious approach allows him to impact clients' lives and level the playing field.

While Frederick Brockmeier is no longer practicing law, Frederick “Rick” Brockmeier has four decades of legal experience. When not performing his duties as the Deacon for his church or as a professor; Rick is an indispensable part of the BLG team.

Milos Marjanovic

Albuquerque, NM

Originally from Eastern Europe, Milos Marjanovic immigrated to Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1997. He learned English, navigated a new culture, and went on to attend high school, college, and eventually graduate school-all right here in New Mexico. In 2007, he earned a black belt in Taekwondo and became a Junior Olympian. He became the first in his family to become an attorney after graduating from the University of New Mexico School of Law. He founded Marjanovic Law, LLC in 2017-a solo practice focused on helping everyday New Mexicans with real-world legal problems, including Criminal Defense, Guardian ad Litem for Children, Adult Guardianship Law, and General Civil Litigation. In 2024, Milos became a partner at Smith & Marjanovic Law, LLC, where the firm now focuses on guardianships, malpractice, wrongful death, personal injury, and civil rights litigation. Outside the office, Milos enjoys time with his family, playing with his dog, and spending time outdoors.

Robert W. Cotner

Waco, TX

Robert W. Cotner is a native of Perry, Oklahoma. He is a 1990 graduate of the University of Oklahoma (B.A., Political Science) and a 1993 graduate of Baylor University School of Law. Mr. Cotner is a member of the McLennan County and American Bar Associations and the State Bar of Texas. He joined the firm in 1996 and was named a partner in 1999. Mr. Cotner is active in his church, St. Matthew Lutheran and is also involved in the University of Oklahoma’s Central Texas Alumni Club. He enjoys sports, and particularly enjoys softball and basketball. Mr. Cotner also loves spending time with his wife, Hope, and daughter, Rachel.

Toby N. Byrd

Bowie, MD

Toby N. Byrd is the managing attorney and senior partner at Byrd & Byrd, LLC, with over 30 years of experience. He received his JD Summa Cum Laude from the District of Columbia School of Law in 1992 and a BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Maryland in 1971. He is admitted to the Maryland State Bar, the United States Supreme Court, and the United States Court of Appeals, fourth circuit. Toby specializes in construction, engineering, dispute resolution, real estate, contract law, and business formation.

C. Boyd Sturges III

Louisburg, NC

Boyd Sturges has practiced law since 1995. He has been involved in several high profile cases including representing a state Judge in a federal corruption case. He was named a special prosecutor in the Duke Lacross case to prosecute former Durham District Attorney Mike Nifong. He has tried many criminal, civil, and domestic cases both to juries as well as judges. He also represents the Franklin County Board of Education and Louisburg College. He was named a Super Lawyer Rising Star in 2009. Boyd is also on the Board of Directors for the Tar River Land Conservancy and a Trustee for Louisburg College.

Craig A. Bealer

Los Angeles, CA

Craig A. Bealer is a Trial Attorney at The Dominguez Firm, known for his versatility in successfully litigating a wide variety of personal injury cases, including wrongful death and traumatic brain injuries. His strong advocacy has resulted in multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts.

H. Michael Soroy

New York, NY

H. Michael Soroy is a Senior Attorney with Urban, Thier & Federer, P.A., admitted to practice law in Federal and State Courts in the United States. He is a graduate of European and US universities, fluent in several European languages, and bilingual in Norwegian. Holding both a J.D. and an M.B.A., he is well-suited for the legal needs of the international business community. He is an attorney member of the Business Law Panel of Los Angeles County Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral and Information Services (LACBA/LRIS). In 2010, he was appointed Norway’s Honorary Consul in Los Angeles.

Jonathan M. Arthur

Richmond, VA

Jonathan M. Arthur is a Virginia Litigation Attorney specializing in civil litigation, civil rights, wills and trusts, contracts, business and commercial law, criminal defense, and constitutional law. He is fluent in Spanish and has successfully represented clients in excessive force cases. He is recognized as a 'Rising Star' by Super Lawyers and 'Virginia’s Legal Elite'.

Alex Cornejo

Woodstock, GA

Alexandros H. Cornejo has a strong presence in the United States, with offices in New York, Dalton, and Woodstock, GA. Adept in immigration law, he handles cases related to the adjustment of status, citizenship, deportation defense, and family reunification. He is authorized to practice across all 50 states and U.S. territories. Notably, in 2021, he achieved the release of more than 120 Latino immigrants from federal detention. He is trilingual, speaking English, Spanish, and Portuguese fluently.

Gregory Bailey

Charles Town, WV

Gregory Bailey's practice is focused on representing clients in family law, divorce and custody cases in Jefferson County and Berkeley County Family Courts. He also represents clients in civil rights cases against government officials for excessive force, wrongful arrest, employment discrimination and business litigation matters in both state and federal courts in West Virginia. Mr. Bailey has earned the reputation as an outstanding attorney in family law and litigation matters and is willing to take matters to jury trial when necessary. He has successfully defended clients on appeal to the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals and the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. He received his law degree from the West Virginia University College of Law where he graduated magna cum laude and was awarded membership into the Order of the Coif, the Order of the Barristers, and received the Patrick Duffy Koontz Scholarship for academic excellence. Mr. Bailey served as an editor on the West Virginia Law Review and authored “Death By Automobile as First Degree Felony-Murder.”

Kristopher Heaton

Lakeland, FL

I spent more than seven years as a prosecutor getting justice for the citizens of Polk County. At Burnetti, P.A., I use the same skills and determination to help make sure insurance companies give you just compensation for your loss. Attorney Heaton has always been driven by a desire to help others. In his practice, he views his role as an advisor, educator, and advocate. He believes that it is not only important to provide his clients with sound advice but also to educate them so that they understand why he is giving that specific advice. He often advises his clients to be polite, open, honest, and, most importantly, themselves throughout the entire process. Whether a case is big or small, Attorney Heaton knows the outcome means everything to the client. With that in mind, he does everything he can to thoroughly prepare cases for trial and fight for a favorable outcome. Every case is unique, and Attorney Heaton believes they should be prepared as such. He knows that it is important to give every case the same amount of care and attention, as a seemingly simple case can easily become challenging and difficult. When this happens, he draws on his extensive experience to determine the value of the case and understand how the insurance company is going to respond. This puts him in a position to effectively advocate for his clients and fight for the maximum compensation they deserve.

Jaclyn S. Nesheiwat

Yonkers, NY

Jaclyn is an associate attorney representing individual and corporate clients on a variety of matters, including business transactions, contracts, plaintiff’s personal injury litigation, corporate and residential real estate transactions, and criminal defense matters. She recently opened the firm’s Dutchess County office and manages its local clients while assisting with the firm’s other clients, as well. Prior to joining the firm, Mrs. Nesheiwat worked for a prominent insurance defense firm where she represented international and domestic insurers in coverage matters involving Directors & Officers Liability, Errors & Omissions and Professional Liability, and Employment Practices Liability.

Kim Alabasi

Painesville, OH

Kim Alabasi is fluent in Spanish and brings valuable experience as a licensed independent social worker and teacher in Mexico to her immigration law practice. She has practiced in the area of Immigration since 2004. She earned her undergraduate degree in Spanish/Sociology from Marquette University and later went on to work in Mexico, first as a teacher in Puebla, Mexico for two years, followed by a job with the non-profit group IMIFAP in Mexico City, Mexico. After obtaining her master’s degree in social work from Case Western University, Kim worked for 7 years as bilingual clinical social worker with the Hispanic Unit of the Center for Families & Children in Cleveland. She obtained her law degree from Cleveland State University in 2003 and worked as an immigration attorney at Yomick & Associates prior to starting her own immigration firm, Alabasi & Associates Co LPA, in 2006. In 2013, Kim joined Dworken & Bernstein Co., L.P.A. as their Of Counsel, Immigration Attorney.

Marcos Garcia

Miami, FL

Marcos Garcia is a brilliant and talented attorney with experience in Immigration, especially assisting families with their deportation proceedings, work permit applications, political asylums, visas, permanent residencies, naturalizations, and representation in individual hearings. The attorney Marcos Garcia stands out for his ability to connect with his clients. This professional earned his Juris Doctor degree from Ave Maria School of Law in Naples, and later he was admitted to the Florida Bar. In 2018, he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Government from Florida International University (FIU). Throughout his career, he has gained extensive experience in immigration law, working with local law firms in this field. His work has focused on identifying legal remedies for complex immigration cases and developing strong defense strategies. Additionally, he has served as the Second Chair Attorney in deportation hearings, providing legal support to clients in need. Garcia speaks English and Spanish and is a member of the prestigious Cuban American Bar Association.

Shedwin Eliassin

Miami, FL

Attorney Shedwin Eliassin has extensive experience in the field of labor law and in the defense of those workers seeking compensation after an accident, illness, or wrongful termination. Graduated as a Juris Doctor from St. Thomas University in Miami, Florida, she stands out for her skills in trial preparation, drafting depositions, interviewing witnesses, and conducting legal investigations. Ms. Eliassin has also built a solid professional background, highlighted by her work at the Public Defender’s Offices in both Miami-Dade and Broward counties, as well as her experience at the Office of the State Attorney for the 17th Judicial Circuit in Fort Lauderdale. These roles have enriched her legal perspective and strengthened her commitment to justice A member of the Florida Bar Association, this talented attorney is able to communicate fluently in English and Haitian Creole, which has allowed her to participate in various support initiatives for vulnerable communities, such as the Southern Poverty Law Center as a translator, and the Florida Breast Health Initiative, serving as a volunteer.