Spanish-Speaking Attorneys

Jose Ignacio Silva is an Associate Attorney at Virguez Law, LLC. He practices exclusively in all areas of immigration and nationality law, including family and humanitarian-based petitions; waivers and inadmissibility issues; and naturalization. Jose has experience working with individuals seeking adjustment of status, citizenship, professional employment, as well as provisional waivers for unlawful presence. As the son of two immigrants from Latin America, Jose first discovered his passion for immigration law while completing his undergraduate studies at Villanova University, where he assisted clients with humanitarian-based applications as a volunteer interpreter for law students at the Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law’s immigration clinic. He then attended the University of Miami School of Law, where he further developed his understanding of immigration law. While in law school, Jose served as a law clerk at Catholic Charities Legal Services, where he assisted staff attorneys in the preparation of asylum applications for unaccompanied minors, among others, by conducting legal research, investigating adverse country conditions impacting particularly vulnerable social groups, and interpreting for Spanish-speaking clients at their asylum interviews. He also collaborated with the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Louisiana office on a project geared towards the conditional release of individuals inhumanely detained in holding centers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jose graduated from the University of Miami School of Law in May 2021, receiving distinctions for his commitment to pro bono work serving disadvantaged communities across Miami. Jose is admitted to practice law in the state of Florida and is a member of the Florida Bar Association. Jose is fluent in English and Spanish.

Mark W. Shepherd

Worthington, MN

Mark W. Shepherd has over 35 years of experience in Social Security Disability and Workers' Compensation cases. He has appeared before Administrative Law Judges over 100 times and is a past President of the Minnesota State Bar Association’s Thirteenth District.

Ramon Gonzalez, hailing from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, embarked on a transformative journey when he arrived in the United States at the age of 11. This early exposure instilled in him a profound understanding that the road to success is paved with hard work and unwavering perseverance. His academic journey reflects his commitment to excellence. Ramon earned a B.A. in Political Science and Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University, a Master of Public Service and Administration degree from the Bush School of Government at Texas A&M University, and a Juris Doctor degree from George Washington University. Each milestone in his education has fortified his foundation, equipping him with the knowledge and skills necessary for his impactful legal career. As a personal injury attorney, Ramon has earned a stellar reputation for his skillful advocacy and personal investment in each case’s success. His passion lies in championing the rights of those who feel powerless against the injustices perpetrated by big corporations and government entities, empowering his clients to hold them accountable. Beyond the legal arena, Ramon finds solace in the company of his canine companion, cherishing moments spent with his dog. Additionally, he channels his creative energies into playing the piano, demonstrating a harmonious balance between his professional rigor and personal pursuits. Ramon Gonzalez’s narrative is one of resilience, academic achievement, and a commitment to justice that extends beyond the courtroom. His journey reflects not only the triumph of an individual but also the embodiment of a compassionate advocate striving for positive change in the lives of those he represents.

Fernando Ruiz

Austin, TX

Fernando Ruiz originates from Brownwood Texas and was awarded his bachelor’s degree at The University of Texas at Austin in 2006. He received his Juris Doctor at the University of Arkansas and became a licensed attorney in the State of Texas in 2011. He began his legal career working tirelessly for the immigrant community in Deportation, Consular Processing, and Family-Based Immigration. Coming from an immigrant family, he understands the urgency of resolving criminal matters in a competent manner with immigration consequences in mind. At his prior employment, he worked with the indigent community in Hays, Caldwell, and Travis County to assist in providing quality criminal representation to individuals that may not have the resources to adequately represent themselves in criminal proceedings. He has also dedicated himself to being the voice of abused and neglected children working as Ad Litem Guardian for the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) organization of Travis County and Northwest Arkansas. During Law School, he was awarded the Robert F. Fussell Top Pro Bono Student Award for his countless voluntary hours. He interned for Circuit Judge Division III Jay Finch, who handled the majority of juvenile cases in the area. Mr. Ruiz interned for Wal-Mart Legal and Legal Aid of Arkansas. During his tenure with Legal Aid of Arkansas, he helped women who were victims of abuse with obtaining protection orders and with other legal issues. Fernando's familiarity with the multitude of Courts in Central Texas makes him an effective advocate in his client’s legal matters.

Sean M. James

Lincoln, NE

No area of immigration law is off limits for Sean M. James. In his decade of practice, he has handled an expansive and ever-evolving range of legal matters - from removal, deportation, and naturalization to family-based petitions, employment-based visas, and appeals. A proud humanitarian and Lincolnite at heart, James fervently defends the local immigrant and refugee communities. While his current focus lies in removal court cases, appeals, waivers, and consular processing, his previous roles at various immigration law firms have provided him big-picture knowledge of all other aspects within the area of practice, making him a versatile and zealous advocate for both his clients and nationwide immigration reform. Bilingual in English and Spanish, James is a true “student of the world” who’s lived in Spain and visits Mexico regularly. His initial dream of becoming a United Nations interpreter pivoted to the legal field after he realized his talents and skills would best be exemplified through hands-on immigration defense. James received a J.D. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2014 and has since successfully helped countless clients realize their American dream.

Tyson N. Raymond

St. George, UT

Tyson is a Senior Associate at Gallian, Welker, and Beckstrom and is fluent in Spanish. He has significant experience in litigation matters, having first chaired numerous court and jury trials. Prior to coming to Gallian, Welker, and Beckstrom, he worked for Judge N. Randy Smith of the Ninth Circuit, District Judge Gregory Moeller (who is now on the Idaho Supreme Court), a prosecutor’s office, and a prestigious firm in Southeast Idaho, where he participated in two Idaho Supreme Court cases. He further has assisted numerous Nevada firms in appeals before the Nevada Supreme Court and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Tyson brings his work ethic from being raised on a farm to his client’s cases. In his spare time, Tyson enjoys Southern Utah’s all year-round outdoor activities with his family and friends.

Norley E. Castañeda

Central Islip, NY

Norley E. Castañeda is an attorney who began her legal career in 2005 at the Legal Aid Society of Suffolk County, New York, specializing in Criminal Law. She has extensive experience representing clients accused of various felonies, misdemeanors, and violations, including DWI, violent offenses, drug-related offenses, theft, and domestic violence. Known for her professionalism and effective negotiation and litigation skills, she consistently achieves successful outcomes. Ms. Castañeda holds an LL.M. in American Legal Studies from Hofstra University and a J.D. with honors from Universidad Nacional de Colombia. She is bilingual in English and Spanish.

Wayne L. Black is an attorney at Law Offices of David H. Black, admitted to the California Bar in 1984. He is a graduate of Southwestern University School of Law and practices workers' compensation law.

Russell S. Babcock

San Diego, CA

Russell S. Babcock specializes in federal border crimes, and nobody knows blind mule cases better than Mr. Babcock. In fact, he even wrote a book on it. As an experienced criminal defense attorney with over 35 years of experience, Russell Babcock understands the culture and life of the US-Mexico Border. He lived in the border zone for three years and speaks fluent Spanish, making him the best choice to represent you or your loved one. When the evidence is strong, we fight hard to reduce your sentence, often achieving a reduction of six or seven years or more from what the government initially recommends. And we are not afraid to go to trial when the client chooses. Mr. Babcock won one of the largest drug cases in United States history...not guilty on a case involving eleven tons of drugs.

Vicki Hathaway Gonzalez

Park Ridge, IL

Vicki Hathaway Gonzalez is an experienced facilitator of real estate transactions. Vicki is known for her style of representation that insists that her clients are fully informed of their rights and obligations under their real estate contract, as well as the real consequences of their decisions regarding those rights and obligations. Vicki's interest in real estate started long before her graduation from John Marshall Law School in 1992. She started investing in real estate in the 1970's, then became a licensed real estate agent, and also taught real estate licensing for the Century 21 Real Estate Academy. As an attorney, she is able to address the transaction from all levels of involvement because she has experience in all those levels. Vicki has completed a wide range of transactions from the smallest residential condominium units to large commercial transactions involving complex lease, environmental and ownership issues. In all these transactions she maintains constant personal vigilance of the transaction so as to insure a smooth transaction for her clients.

Evelyn Montoya

Los Angeles, CA

Evelyn Montoya is a Case Manager with over 15 years of experience in the personal injury field. She is responsible for resolving property damage and bodily injury claims and ensures all case files are prepared for the attorney, facilitating a smooth legal process for clients.

Angelica D. Zolnierowicz

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Angelica D. Zolnierowicz is an Associate at Conrad & Scherer, focusing on complex commercial litigation, blockchain technologies, and criminal securities fraud. She holds a Master of Laws from Georgetown University Law Center and a Juris Doctorate from The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law. She also has Master and Bachelor degrees in International Affairs from Boston University. Admitted to practice in New York, North Carolina, District of Columbia, and Maryland, she is fluent in Polish and proficient in French and Spanish. She has held various legal roles, including a Military Commission Observer at Guantanamo Bay and Editor of the Journal of National Security Law and Policy.

Jesus A. Cachaya Jr. Esq

White Plains, NY

Jesus A. Cachaya, Jr. Esq. graduated from Capital University Law School in Columbus, Ohio. Admitted to the Bar of New York on May 27, 2009. Also admitted to Federal Bars in Southern District of New York and Eastern District of New York. Jesus represents individuals in Civil and Criminal cases in New York, as well as Bankruptcy and Immigration Courts. As a litigator Jesus has earned the respect of the State and Federal Courts while helping the public and his clients. Maintains offices in Westchester, White Plains and Nashville, Tennessee. Memberships include the New York State Bar Association, American Bar Association, Westchester Bar Association, American Immigration Law Association.

Sara Bruce Weirich

Columbus, GA

Sara Bruce Weirich grew up in Columbus, Georgia, and graduated from Brookstone School. She attended the University of Georgia, earning degrees in International Affairs and Spanish, and then taught in Madrid, Spain. Sara attended Tulane University Law School, where she was a managing editor of the Tulane Maritime Law Journal and gained experience in civil and criminal matters through the law clinic. She also completed externships with Chief Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown and the United Nations International Maritime Organization. After practicing law for five years in Louisiana, Sara returned to her hometown to serve the community.

Jessica Lau

Leesburg, VA

Since law school, Jessica has dedicated herself to upholding the rights of her clients and treating each case with utmost care and attention. Jessica joined Marquis Law Group in 2025 after having practiced as a Public Defender in Loudoun County for seven years. Jessica has always guided her practice by the central tenet of _cura personalis_, a Latin phrase for “care for the whole person.” By getting to know her clients, and not just their legal matters, Jessica is able to foster a client relationship that is attentive to each person’s circumstances, concerns, and gifts. She is dedicated to studying the facts of every case to determine what legal issues may exist and ensure her clients feel informed and educated about the process. With numerous years of practice with intense negotiations as well as in court litigation, Jessica is sure to advocate for her clients in a way that can only be defined as zealous.

Michelle Garcia

Tucson, AZ

Michelle Garcia joined Bache Lynch Goldsmith and Mendoza in 2023. She is a licensed attorney in Mexico and holds a Master’s degree in Oil, Gas, and Renewable Energy Law. Her academic background and perspective contribute to her thoughtful approach to legal work. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Michelle is able to assist a diverse range of clients and ensure clear communication throughout the legal process. Originally from Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, Michelle has been based in Tucson since 2022. She is known for her enthusiasm for learning and her collaborative spirit. Outside the office, Michelle enjoys reading, practicing Pilates, and spending time with her husband and their four dogs.

Austin Taylor

Dallas, TX

Austin Taylor was born and raised in southeastern Louisiana. Austin graduated from law school in May, 2016 and focused his practice on personal bankruptcy and finance. Austin assisted his clients through financial hardship and helped them create a fresh start. Austin moved to Dallas in 2021 and continued his service to those in financial hardship. In January, 2023 Austin expanded his expertise to assisting clients with personal injuries, handling everything from motor vehicle accidents to premise liability. Austin’s passion for helping those in need is what drives him to fight for the best result for every client.

Juan-Carlos Andaluz

Pompano Beach, FL

Juan-Carlos Andaluz is an attorney at Wooster Law specializing in personal injury cases, particularly traumatic brain injuries. He holds a background in health law and neuroscience. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from NSU Shepard Broad College of Law in December 2021 and studied Neural Science at New York University, graduating in December 2013. He passed the Florida Bar Examination in July 2022 and the New York State Bar Examination in July 2023, being certified in New York in April 2024. He provides pro bono legal services to disabled individuals and is fluent in English, Spanish, and French.

Alan Borden

Encino, CA

Alan Borden, Esq. is a Consumer Protection Lawyer who advocates on behalf of Consumers in financial trouble. He specializes in fighting foreclosures, debt collection lawsuits, and bankruptcy litigation. He is admitted to federal district courts in Texas and is a native Spanish speaker.

Molly Hilburn-Holte

Greensboro, NC

Prior to joining ER Law, Molly spent five years at the Guilford County Public Defender’s Office, where she represented individuals on a wide range of criminal cases, from DWI’s and district court criminal matters to serious felonies. Along with her significant trial and courtroom experience, she brings her commitment to supporting her clients as they navigate the justice system. Molly grew up in Greenville, North Carolina, and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in International Studies. After graduating, she taught English in Mexico and volunteered as an AmeriCorps member in Durham, North Carolina serving the immigrant community. During this time, she developed a proficiency in the Spanish language. Molly earned her J.D. in 2014 from Campbell’s Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law. While there, she was active in the trial advocacy program, and was admitted into the Order of the Barristers; obtained her Third Year Practice Certificate and represented clients in State and Federal Court; and authored a publication for the North Carolina Bar Association’s Education Section. Molly is active in the Greensboro community. She is the Secretary of the Greensboro Bar Association and a member of the Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. She volunteers at Greensboro Urban Ministry, and has served as a volunteer judge for the Guilford County Teen Court Program.

Zhenia Burgis, Esq.

Sherman Oaks, CA

“Mrs. Burgis is a BRILLIANT writer and an amazing advocate and person. She strongly believes in honesty, loyalty, and respect; she abides by these laws in dealing with those around them. She is a fighter and one of the most aggressive advocates I know.” - Michael Burgis, Esq., Managing Attorney. Zhenia Burgis graduated with honors with a B.S. in Business Administration from the Marshall School of Business, University of Southern California (USC). In May of 2008, Mrs. Burgis graduated in the top 20% of her class from Southwestern University School of Law, where she was a member of the Southwestern Law Review and received CALI awards in Legal Research and Writing. Mrs. Burgis became licensed to practice law in December of 2008. From 2008 to 2013, Mrs. Burgis primarily devoted her practice to defending labor and employment related matters in both the public and private sectors. In April of 2013, Mrs. Burgis joined Michael Burgis & Associates, P.C. to chair the firm’s Labor and Employment Division. Mrs. Burgis brings the insight and experience of employment defense strategy to the Plaintiff’s side, applying her knowledge and expertise to effectively represent employees who have been subjected to unlawful employment practices, including harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and wrongful termination. Mrs. Burgis has extensive motion, deposition, and courtroom experience; she takes an aggressive approach to litigation to obtain the maximum results for her clients. Mrs. Burgis is also fluent in Russian and semi-fluent in Spanish.

Paola Colon Rivas

Orlando, FL

Paola Colon-Rivas, Esq. is a highly experienced attorney passionate about helping her community. Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Florida, Paola obtained her degree in Criminology and Law from the University of Florida. Paola has a wide range of experience in various legal areas, including insurance disputes, hurricane and hail claims, property insurance claims, civil litigation, contract law, criminal law, and family law. She has always been committed to using her legal knowledge to help those in need, especially the underserved Hispanic community. Being a dedication community member extends beyond her professional life. Paola enjoys professional photography, traveling, and spending time with her family, two dogs, and parrot in her free time. Her love of photography allows her to capture special moments and create lasting memories for her clients. Paola’s commitment to her community is further demonstrated by her volunteer work with local organizations that serve the Hispanic community. She believes everyone should have access to legal representation and is determined to use her legal expertise to impact the lives of those around her positively. A passion for the law and community is evident in everything Paola does. Her commitment to her clients and her dedication to her community make her a respected and trusted member of the legal profession.

Julie Barranco

Coral Gables, FL

Attorney Julie Barranco was born and raised in Miami, Florida. She attended Florida International University where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications with a minor in Art. She went on to law school at St. Thomas University where she graduated with honors in 2014. While in law school, she was a Certified Legal Intern with the Miami-Dade Public Defender's Office where she helped defend low-income individuals' constitutional rights. During her time at St. Thomas University, she also worked at a civil litigation firm in their finance acquisition department as well assisted with appeals. Upon passing the Florida Bar, Julie immediately began working at Gonzalez & Associates in the Civil Litigation Department representing medical providers in disputes against insurance companies.