English-Speaking Attorneys

David Hernandez

New York, NY

David joined Siegel & Coonerty in 2023 and brings many years of experience working in the legal arena to the firm. David has worked with injured construction workers, adjusters, case managers, and both defense and plaintiff attorneys during his career. In addition to his community relations focus, David’s diverse background includes strong OSHA safety rules, construction workers’ rights and marketing/advertising expertise. David is third generation of Colombian American descendant. Also, having experience as a painter himself, he has been involved in the Hispanic community, especially with undocumented construction workers in the United States for the past 15 years. His many credentials include an associate degree in advertising, diploma in marketing and web development, Google certifications for digital marketing, Google My Business, CyraCom interpreter certification, and BrainStation data analytics certification. When not working David enjoys cooking, and he actively volunteers at local churches. His motto is: “Helping others is a privilege”.

Randyn R. Sugai

Honolulu, HI

Randyn R. Sugai is an associate specializing in real estate development, transactions, and commercial leases. He received his J.D. from the University of Hawaii, William S. Richardson School of Law, where he was a Judicial Extern and awarded the HSBA Real Property and Financial Services Section C. Jepson Garland Memorial Scholarship.

Paul P. Cheng, Esq.

Pasadena, CA

At the forefront of legal excellence in Pasadena stands Paul P. Cheng, Esq., our esteemed Managing Partner at PPRCLaw, APC. Celebrated for his extensive accomplishments and unyielding dedication, Mr. Cheng has earned the prestigious recognition as a top attorney in both Pasadena and Los Angeles, coupled with an honor in the Super Lawyers® Rising Stars℠ listing. A pivotal figure at PPRCLaw, APC, Mr. Cheng has steered the international law firm towards unparalleled growth, meriting its rank among Inc5000's fastest-growing businesses in America. His areas of proficiency include business operations, real estate, and labor compliance. His formidable journey as a prosecutor in San Bernardino County is a testament to his multifaceted legal expertise. Mr. Cheng is a revered member of "The 10-Million Club" in Los Angeles, a testament to his significant courtroom successes. Elected to the Arcadia City Council (District 4) in 2020, serving as the Mayor between 2022-2023 and continuing his service for the betterment of the community. He has a legacy built on championing immigrant rights, securing millions in judgments and verdicts for aggrieved individuals across California. Stellar representation resulting in a favorable settlement on the third day of a jury trial, minimizing a defendant's potential liability to a mere 1%. Mr. Cheng's compassion extends beyond the courtroom. He ardently supports the Arcadia Methodist Hospital, the American Red Cross, and the Association of Parents with Special Children, demonstrating his commitment to societal betterment. Beyond his impressive legal acumen, Mr. Cheng is also deeply rooted in community service and holds a profound respect for those who serve on the front lines. He has been a long-time active supporter of first responders, law enforcement, and veterans. Recognizing the sacrifices made by these brave individuals, Mr. Cheng's dedication extends beyond mere words. He has actively championed causes, initiated support programs, and facilitated various outreach efforts to ensure that those who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting ours are honored, supported, and celebrated. His passion for these heroes not only showcases his character but also embodies the spirit of our entire firm.

Ruby Arellano

Palmdale, CA

Ruby is no stranger to the personal injury field. She uses her knowledge in the field to adequately set up the success of her clients’ cases. Ruby is fluent in Spanish. Her experience in pre-litigation helps her make clear the process of each client’s case. She is excellent at meeting our clients’ needs with a clear understanding. As a case manager Ruby’s goal is to demonstrate compassion, understanding, and empathy. Ruby lives in Littlerock with her husband and three children. She enjoys the outdoors, riding her horse, and is an avid sports fan.

Erica Sanchez, a dedicated immigration attorney, brings a unique perspective to the field, fueled by personal and professional experiences. Erica graduated from ASU Law in 2008 and embarked on a journey to advocate for those navigating the complexities of immigration law. Erica is a first-generation American, whose roots trace back to Mexico, where her parents left their home country and bravely ventured to the U.S. in pursuit of a better life. This firsthand experience of the immigrant’s plight informs Erica’s compassionate and client-focused approach to legal practice. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Erica ensures effective communication and understanding between clients and the legal system. This linguistic proficiency enhances Erica’s ability to provide comprehensive legal assistance to a diverse clientele. Beyond the courtroom, Erica finds joy and balance in family life. As the middle child of a large Mexican family, Erica values the importance of creating a nurturing environment at home. Erica channels creativity and passion into the kitchen, where cooking becomes a form of self-expression and a means of caring for loved ones.

A Florida native, Austin holds a Finance and law degree from the University of Florida. Austin specializes in helping property owners get just compensation for property damages resulting from Florida storms. He also helps property owners with other covered losses.

Robert Zakaryan leads an experienced team of personal injury attorneys at Zakaryan Law Group, providing compassionate support and expert legal representation to individuals and families. He is dedicated to advocating for clients and striving for maximum compensation in personal injury cases.

Dmitri N. Chtyrev is associated with Westside Injury Lawyers, a firm with over 40 years of experience in personal injury law, recognized with awards such as Elite Advocate and Lawyers of Distinction.

Liliana Jimenez

Yakima, WA

Liliana Jimenez joined the Law Offices of Mariano Morales Jr. in October 2015. She has over 5 years of prior experience in worker's compensation claims. She graduated from Heritage University in 2009 with a Bachelor's in American Cultural Studies with a dual degree in English. She is fluent in written and spoken Spanish and focuses on understanding clients' needs and ensuring they receive necessary treatment.

Cindi’s primary focus is the defense of workers’ compensation and liability claims. She travels throughout the beautiful state of Wisconsin defending employers and insurers on workers’ compensation matters as well as liability cases. She became interested in insurance defense when working as a claim representative and supervisor for State Farm Insurance. Her favorite part of practicing law is meeting with clients and witnesses to put together the pieces of the case to provide a defense. Every case has it’s own twists and turns which makes each one unique. She also enjoys giving seminars to insurance clients; given her past experience working in the claims business, Cindi finds that she really connects with claims staff when training on Wisconsin workers’ compensation law. Cindi is a member of the Claims & Litigation Management Alliance (CLM), Claims Xchange, Alliance of Women in Workers’ Compensation, and Wisconsin Association of Workers’ Compensation Attorneys. She was sworn in as a member of the United States Supreme Court in May 2015. She is member of the Rotary Club of Rice Lake and serves on the Liturgy Board of her church.

Jessica J. Groen

Parker, CO

Jessica is passionate about helping others. Her practice focuses on family law related matters where she successfully assists individuals with their family law needs. This includes, but is not limited to, resolving complex dissolution of marriage matters involving high net worth individuals, the division of high asset estates, and parenting time disputes. Jessica recognizes the stress and frustration that can arise from the litigation process, and she empathizes with the emotional, personal, and often high conflict issues raised in family law cases. She is a dedicated advocate for her clients and their families. Her ability to determine the strengths and weaknesses of a case allows her to assist her clients with the highest levels of compassion and competency. Jessica refuses to let emotions cloud her judgment. To limit the emotional and financial strain on her clients, her goal is to always seek resolution outside of the courtroom in a thoughtful and responsible manner. However, when a matter cannot be resolved through negotiation or mediation, Jessica is prepared to advocate for her clients in trial.

Jaime Lapidus is a criminal defense lawyer and Chief of Appeals at Piotrowski Law. He graduated summa cum laude from St. Thomas University School of Law and was recognized for his top score on the Florida Bar Exam in 2016. Previously an assistant public defender, he has extensive trial experience in Palm Beach, Broward, and Dade County, and defends clients at Federal and Appellate levels.

Alicia D. Wrest

Hanford, CA

Alicia D. Wrest was raised in Hanford and graduated from San Joaquin College of Law where she was awarded her Juris Doctor with High Honors. While attending Law school, Alicia served as Assistant Editor-in-chief for the San Joaquin Agricultural Law Review. As a staff member she published a comment on the intersection of transactional law and tribal law. Having initially worked as an attorney at Dias Law Firm, Alicia currently serves in the role Of Counsel, so whilst no longer trying cases, remains vital member of the legal team providing advice and analysis on cases and to the firm. 'People come to you with all kinds of difficult problems and at difficult times in their life, and the law provides clarity and answers and a way through.'

Mollie Rush is an approachable and caring family lawyer who helps clients achieve the best outcomes for their circumstances. She earned her J.D. in 2021 from UNT Dallas College of Law and has experience in various legal roles, including as a litigation paralegal and associate attorney.

Kim Allegretti has been a litigation attorney in Colorado since 1991 and has practiced workers’ compensation law since 2010. She graduated from the University of Illinois (BA) and the University of Colorado (JD). She represented both litigation and transactional clients for many years in private practice before focusing on workers’ compensation. She served as an Administrative Law Judge with the Colorado Office of Administrative Courts (2010-2016), presiding over both workers’ compensation matters and general services cases on behalf of various Colorado state, county, and administrative agencies. She also mediated cases through the Office of Administrative Courts. She joined McCollum Crowley Law in 2017.

Tania Gomez

San Diego, CA

Tania Gomez is a Paralegal at Hoffman & Forde, specializing in Estate Planning, Probate, and Tax Law. She has over a decade of experience in Estate Planning Law and is a certified Tax Preparer and California Notary Public.

Douglas J. Phebus

Des Moines, IA

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

Victor M. Arellano

Des Moines, IA

Victor M. Arellano is a Partner/Shareholder at Arellano & Phebus, S.C., a firm known for fighting for maximum compensation for clients in personal injury, worker's compensation, criminal, and immigration law. He is a bilingual lawyer.

Gretchen Hendley

Abilene, TX

Gretchen joined the Allen Law Firm in 2017 and became a part of Hanna Allen firm in November of 2021. She has about 34 years’ experience in the legal field. She enjoys talking with the clients, being a good listener and helping them work through their difficult situations to a positive resolution. She grew up in Abilene, Texas and has lived here all of her life. She truly loves being a mom, memaw, wife, dog-mom, loves cooking, cleaning house and helping with her family.

Ainy Gu

Pasadena, CA

As Chief Strategy and Operations Officer at the Law Offices of Paul P. Cheng & Associates (PPRCLAW), Ainy Gu has been the driving force behind the firm’s transformation from a boutique legal practice into one of Southern California’s most trusted full-service litigation and business law firms. With over 15 years of leadership at PPRCLAW, she brings deep operational expertise, long-standing media experience, and a sharp strategic vision to elevate the firm’s performance, growth, and public presence. A veteran journalist and media strategist, Ainy continues to serve as a prime-time news anchor and political correspondent, specializing in complex legal and public affairs reporting. She brings this rare dual perspective to the legal field-guiding PPRCLAW’s case positioning, brand messaging, and reputation management with a journalist’s instinct for narrative and a strategist’s eye for public perception. At the firm, Ainy oversees end-to-end operations, including infrastructure development, HR, finance, marketing, bilingual communications, and client experience. Her leadership has been instrumental in scaling the firm’s operations while preserving its core values: integrity, service, and legal excellence. Born in China and raised in Japan, Ainy’s multicultural upbringing deeply informs her leadership style and client-centered approach. As the head of the firm’s bilingual and bicultural engagement programs, Ainy has played a key role in making legal services accessible to diverse demographics, especially first-generation immigrants and underserved communities. Her work has expanded PPRCLAW’s footprint across Los Angeles, the San Gabriel Valley, and beyond. Under Ainy’s strategic leadership, PPRCLAW has emerged as a dynamic legal brand-respected not only for courtroom results but for its adaptability, operational excellence, and trusted voice in the legal and public space.

Lulu Georgiadou

Tucson, AZ

Lulu Georgiadou is a Senior Paralegal with over two decades of experience. She first worked for the Khalidi Law Firm from 1994 to 2002, and rejoined the firm in 2011 after living in Europe. She brings extensive paralegal expertise to the team.

Kent B. Gravelle has joined the firm’s Minneapolis workers’ compensation team. Kent received his J.D. from the University of Oklahoma in 1996 after being placed on the Dean’s Honor Roll. He has many years of litigation experience defending both civil and workers’ compensation asbestos claims in Minnesota and North Dakota, and he is admitted to practice in state and federal courts in both states.