Spanish-Speaking Attorneys

Alfonso Nevárez C.

Eagle Pass, TX

Alfonso ‘Poncho’ was born in San Antonio, Texas, and was raised along the Texas-Mexico border in the middle Rio Grande Valley. He received his B.A. in government from the University of Texas at Austin. Alfonso received his law degree from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. He began his legal career as a Laredo car accident attorney with the office of Phil Watkins, P.C. in San Antonio, Texas alongside a collection of talented litigators. Mr. Nevárez is a skilled injury lawyer in Laredo that has litigated cases involving catastrophic injuries and death against some of the largest corporations in the world and is fluent in Spanish.

Clifford Ashcroft-Smith

Dallas, TX

Clifford Ashcroft-Smith is a Trial Lawyer in Dallas with more than fifteen years of experience in major litigation across the United States. He has successfully handled civil and criminal cases, including prosecuting on behalf of the U.S. Department of Justice, and is admitted to practice in numerous state and federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.

Howard S. Teitelbaum

East Brunswick, NJ

Howard S. Teitelbaum is an attorney with over 40 years of experience in civil, criminal, and municipal court matters. Raised in East Brunswick, New Jersey, he attended the University of Connecticut and Seton Hall University School of Law. After a clerkship and a year with a Jersey City firm, he opened his practice in East Brunswick. He gained experience as a pool attorney for the public defender's office, achieving numerous acquittals. He has received awards for his legal, charitable, and civic work and has secured significant settlements and jury verdicts, including a multi-million dollar dog bite settlement.

Jacqueline Garcell

Coral Gables, FL

Jacqueline Garcell is a senior partner and active trial attorney in maritime law for Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A. She routinely handles passengers’ personal injury, sexual assault and wrongful death claims, as well as non-maritime personal injury claims. Ms. Garcell is the fastest attorney to ever make partner at the firm, having been promoted to the partner position after being with us for a decade.

James H. Whalen

Chicago, IL

James H. Whalen serves as co-managing partner of Lipe Lyons Murphy Nahrstadt & Pontikis Ltd. and is a member of the firm's tort defense, commercial litigation, and product liability practice groups.

Israel Medina

Odessa, TX

Driven by his family's hardworking ethos, Israel Medina earned his Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School in Boston. After graduating, he established his own practice as an oilfield injury attorney in West Texas, motivated by a passion for social justice and his firsthand experience with workers striving for a better life. Having lived through his father's struggles as an undocumented immigrant, Israel Medina was inspired to provide comfort and reassurance to his people. At the Medina Law Firm, our team shares the bond of Mexican heritage and Spanish fluency. Growing up and later working in the oil fields as a welder, truck driver, and maintenance technician, Israel Medina saw firsthand how both documented and undocumented workers were mistreated and put in dangerous jobs. He knew early on what he needed to do to make a difference. Israel chose a career in law to fight for their rights.

Luke C. Antonsen

Joliet, IL

Luke C. Antonsen was born and raised in Chicago, IL and graduated from Marist High School. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa with majors in Spanish and Political Science, becoming a fluent Spanish speaker after living abroad in Spain. He received his law degree from The John Marshall Law School, where he was on the Dean’s List and a Published Editor in The John Marshall Journal of Computer & Information Law. Luke gained experience in complex civil litigation, insurance defense, and as a Plaintiff’s trial attorney before co-founding Hamilton & Antonsen, Ltd. As a founding partner, he manages personal injury, criminal and traffic, probate, and family law matters. He is a member of The Will County Bar Association and the Phi Delta Phi International Legal Honors Society. He served eight years on the Board of Directors at The Spanish Community Center in Joliet, including two years as president. He received the “Local Hero Award” by the Illinois State Legislature and the 2017 “Commitment to Service Award” by the Spanish Community Center.

Tigran Martinian

Los Angeles, CA

Founder of Martinian Lawyers, specializing in personal injury, wrongful death, and criminal defense. Recognized as a leading California litigator with a proven track record of multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts. Has nearly 20 years of experience.

Dayanna Lopez

Port Orange, FL

Attorney Dayanna Lopez practices in the areas of family law, personal injury, civil litigation and criminal trial law. Ms. Lopez earned a Bachelor’s degree with a double major in English and Political Science in 2004, before pursuing a law degree from the same school. In 2009, she received her Juris Doctorate of Law from the Stetson University College of Law. While in law school, she received the Exemplary Leadership & Dedication Award and the Outstanding Service Award from the Law Student Division of the American Bar Association. Ms. Lopez continues to serve her Alma Mater, by participating every year with the Stetson University Model United States Senate, actively mentoring and encouraging those wishing to pursue a career in law or public service. Before joining the Politis & Matovina, P.A. legal team, Attorney Lopez interned in Florida’s Office of the State Attorney. She also interned and worked in the criminal division of the Office of the Attorney General, the Seventh Judicial Circuit Court, and most recently, Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida. During her career, she has also contributed to several published books and research projects. Ms. Lopez volunteers her time performing pro-bono legal services for Veteran’s Court in Volusia and Flagler counties along with victims of domestic violence. Ms. Lopez also serves on the Domestic Violence Advisory Committee for the Seventh Judicial Circuit Court. Attorney Lopez is a member of several prestigious professional organizations, including the Florida Bar, the Volusia County Bar Association, the Flagler County Bar Association, and the Putnam County Bar Association. She is also a member of Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida, Inns of Court, the Volusia/Flagler Association for Women Lawyers, and the Florida Justice Association. Additionally, Attorney Lopez is the founder of the Tax Law Society and she previously participated in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. Attorney Lopez is fluent in Spanish and often assists our Spanish-speaking clients with a variety of legal matters. Politis & Matovina, P.A. is very pleased to welcome Attorney Lopez to our team; we are confident that her incredible skillset and extensive experience will prove to be a fantastic asset to our dedicated legal team.

John Jefcoat

Lafayette, LA

John M. Jefcoat is a highly regarded personal injury lawyer and founding partner at Galloway Jefcoat, LLP, based in Lafayette, LA. He possesses an intimate understanding of the local community and its needs, with a strong commitment to justice for individuals throughout Acadiana. John's extensive experience and compassionate approach has earned him a reputation as a respected advocate in Lafayette and beyond, successfully handling cases in car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, personal injuries, and slip & fall. He co-founded Galloway Jefcoat, LLP in 1996, dedicated to serving injured clients across Louisiana and representing clients from all over the United States.

Justin Ziegler

Coral Gables, FL

Justin Ziegler is an injury lawyer with over 21 years of experience, having helped clients secure over $18 million in settlements. He graduated with honors from the University of Miami School of Law and is licensed in Florida state courts and the Southern District of Florida federal court. He is a member of the Florida Justice Association.

Partner Marsha E. Barr-Fernandez is one of the leading female lawyers in California, and has been recognized as such by her peers. Marsha has over 20 years of litigation experience representing injured persons in medical malpractice and personal injury cases and has been pivotal in obtaining hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for her clients.

Claribel Tejada

South Jordan, UT

Claribel Tejada is an attorney with almost 20 years of experience. She has represented the Latino community in many areas of law. The focus of her law practice is obtaining immigration status for undocumented individuals. She can get you a temporary visa, such as a UVISA or DACA or TPS status. She can get you a green card/lawful permanent residence, and can naturalize you as a U.S. citizen. Attorney Claribel Tejada can also help you obtain compensation when you have suffered injuries in a car accident. Sometimes you go through situations in your life, and ends up committing a crime. Those crimes have immigration consequences that can strip you of your legal status in this country and get you deported. If you are ready to turn your life around and become a better human being, Attorney Claribel Tejada will work hard to get you the best resolution for your case. Many times we get into a relationship and believe it will be for the rest of our lives. Unfortunately, relationships can end and in that case, you need a divorce lawyer to help you divide your property and get an agreement for child support and alimony payments. You may also need to establish a parenting plan so that both parents can be a part of their children's lives, even if there has been a divorce. Attorney Claribel Tejada can also help you obtain an adoption and guardianship. We can also help you with civil litigation, estate planning, real estate purchases and sales, and mortgage loans!

Eric Matthew Williams

Durham, NC

At The Law Offices of Eric M. Williams, PLLC, we understand how difficult it is when you are facing a legal problem. We care about you and your family, and our goal is to work to ensure the best outcome in any case we handle. We are passionate about helping you, and about using our skills to work for you. We are also realistic, and will never promise a specific outcome on your case. When you call The Law Offices of Eric M. Williams, PLLC, we treat you like an individual. Our attorneys are fluent in English and Spanish, and will sit down with you and listen carefully to all your concerns about your situation. You make the choice as to how you will proceed. You will not feel alone, as we will walk you through the legal process step by step. When you need help, we will answer, calling you back as quickly as possible. At The Law Offices of Eric M. Williams, PLLC, we offer assistance in many kind of cases. We have experience with criminal defense, and will take a criminal case from the first call all the way to trial. We can help with personal injury cases. If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, whether it be because of an automobile accident or because of negligent care of property, you can call us for help. If you need help in the Raleigh or Durham area, call The Law Offices of Eric M. Williams, PLLC today for a free consultation. Attorney Eric M. Williams earned his Bachelor's Degree in Spanish Interpretation and Translation before he acquired his Doctor of Jurisprudence from the North Carolina Central University School of Law. If you need a Spanish abogado, he can provide full services. While The Law Offices of Eric M. Williams, PLLC takes cases in different legal areas, the focus is on providing legal representation for families in transition. Often legal issues overlap, such as criminal law and family law. He will listen to all your concerns and help you find a solution that is best for your family. Family law issues are always emotional and stressful. You need a compassionate family lawyer if you are going through a divorce or child support or custody issue who truly wants the best for you. Raleigh Lawyer Eric M. Williams can assist with these other family issues like adoption. His focus will be on your family and helping you to come through this difficult time and move on. Being charged with a criminal offense can be shocking. When you deal with the criminal justice system, you need someone on your side fighting hard for your rights. At The Law Offices of Eric M. Williams, PLLC, we will fight hard for what you need. Call today for a free consultation.

Sipreano “Jimmy” Rios

Fort Myers, FL

Sipreano “Jimmy” Rios, Esq. is an accomplished criminal defense attorney and a partner at Brown, Suarez, Rios & Weinberg, P.A., a full-service Florida Law firm, representing clients in the areas of criminal defense and personal injury. He is also a member of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Mr. Rios is a native of Amarillo, Texas and obtained his undergraduate degree in criminal justice from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, one of the select few schools to offer an advanced degree in that field. After receiving his bachelor’s degree, Jimmy, as he prefers to be called, attended St. Thomas University School of Law in Miami, Florida. Jimmy has concentrated his legal career almost exclusively on criminal defense. In pursuing a career as a trial attorney, Jimmy joined the office of the public defender for Broward County, Florida (Ft. Lauderdale) where he was assigned to the domestic violence division; during his time there he gained valuable trial experience. A consummate strategist, Attorney Rios works tirelessly on many criminal cases. He is known as a relentless fighter who never gives up on any case. Whether the case is his, or handled by another criminal defense attorney from Brown, Suarez, Rios & Weinberg, it is Jimmy’s goal to assure that every client receive the best legal representation possible, no matter how small the case may seem. It is his deep belief, and what he has built his entire career on, that there is hope for each and every client he represents and all avenues should be pursued regardless of the time and energy it takes. For criminal attorney Jimmy Rios devoting the finest criminal defense for every client is a must and he won’t settle for less. Jimmy has been married for 30 years with two grown sons, one of which has followed in his footsteps to become a criminal attorney, he also has three granddaughters whom he loves to spoil.

George P. Roland, Esq.

Sherman Oaks, CA

George P. Roland, is a Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation has been in practice for over 45 years. Mr. Roland is a pillar of the Workers’ Compensation community and is additionally well seasoned in all Personal Injuries (P.I.), and has also represented individuals in Social Security, and Discrimination cases. After graduating from U.C. Berkeley with a B.S. in Philosophy in 1970 and a short writing career, George Roland was admitted to the University of Denver College Of Law, where he was active in the Public Defender’s office both as an investigator as well as a “student attorney,” also practicing civilly with the Denver Legal Aid Clinic. Mr. Roland was admitted to the California State Bar in 1975, practicing criminal, civil, and Workers’ Compensation law, becoming a “Certified Specialist” in Workers’ Compensation. Mr. Roland is admitted to practice in California before the Federal and State Courts, is a member in good standing of the California Applicant’s Association, Los Angeles County Bar Association, Beverly Hills Bar Association, Association of Trial Lawyers of America (ATLA), Consumer Trial Lawyers’ Association (CTLA), Los Angeles Trial Lawyers Association (LATLA), formerly Arbitrator for the American Arbitration Association (AAA), and was a Judge Pro-Tempore and Arbitrator in Workers’ Compensation. Mr. Roland was born in Paris, France, and speaks French, Hungarian, as well as Spanish. Mr. Roland was the founder of his own law office previously and has now joined the MB&A team in his final quest to obtain justice for injured workers in need.

Jessica Diaz

Coral Gables, FL

Jessica Diaz, Esq. is an accomplished attorney with a strong litigation background, currently dedicated exclusively to the practice of Personal Injury law. In joining Dream Team Law, Ms. Diaz is elated to transition from general civil matters to zealously pursuing justice in civil courts on behalf of victims of car accidents, 18-wheeler collisions, wrongful death, insurance disputes, and a wide range of injury-related cases. Ms. Diaz has successfully recovered millions of dollars in settlements on behalf of her clients, earning a reputation as a fierce advocate for the injured and underserved. Prior to joining the firm, she built a diverse legal foundation, handling complex matters in Family and Matrimonial Law, Probate and Estates, Trusts, Immigration, Domestic Violence, and Criminal Defense. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology, with a Minor in Political Science, from the University of Miami in 2010, and obtained her Juris Doctor from Ave Maria School of Law in 2014. During her time in law school, she was actively involved in the Delta Theta Phi International Law Fraternity, the Women’s Law Association, and the Immigration Law Society. Ms. Diaz began her legal career as a Legal Intern with the Miami-Dade Police Department, where she focused on money laundering and asset forfeiture cases. Following graduation, she joined a respected South Florida law firm as an Associate Attorney, managing a wide range of family and civil law cases throughout the state of Florida. She is a member in good standing of the Florida Bar, the Texas Bar, and the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida. A proud native of South Florida, Ms. Diaz is fluent in both English and Spanish, and remains deeply committed to serving diverse communities with integrity, empathy, and legal excellence.

Marshall Lee Portivent, Jr.

Atlanta, GA

Marshall Lee Portivent, Jr. is an attorney who grew up in a working-class family in South Georgia. He worked in construction and as a long-haul truck driver to pay for his education. He graduated Cum Laude from Valdosta State University with a B.A. in Political Science and a Minor in History, and earned his J.D. from Mercer University School of Law in 2012. He has experience representing insurance companies and corporations before dedicating his career to helping injured individuals. He is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court Northern District of Georgia, Georgia Court of Appeals, and Supreme Court of Georgia. He is a member of the State Bar of Georgia, Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, and Workers' Injury Law & Advocacy Group.

Samuel G. Encarnacion

Philadelphia, PA

Samuel G. Encarnacion is a bilingual personal injury attorney based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He is a member of the Pennsylvania Bar Association Board of Governors and the Lancaster Bar Association Diversity Committee. He also has experience in criminal law, serving with the Lancaster County Public Defender’s Office since 1993 and holding an AVVO rating of 10 out of 10 for criminal law.

Daniel Martinez

Palm Bay, FL

Daniel Martinez is an experienced trial lawyer who meticulously analyzes each case. He is deeply committed to his community, dedicating his time and resources to causes like youth sports and education, and is known for helping clients regardless of financial reward.

Manuel H. Hernandez

Albuquerque, NM

Throughout his career, Manuel has helped clients search for answers and solutions where there appear to be only questions and uncertainty. Whether it be in trial, on appeal, or via settlement resolution, Manuel works to find the best solution for each of his clients. Because he grew up on the border of the U.S. and Mexico, Manuel is fluent in both English and Spanish-a skill that helps him communicate and understand his clients on a personal level. After graduating from the University of Texas at El Paso, Manuel attended the Texas Tech University School of Law, where he served as editor of the Texas Tech Administrative Law Journal. He earned a place on the Journal’s Executive Board and was awarded the Texas Tech University School of Law Judge Meade F. Griffin Award. The award is given each year to the student who has “best utilized the law school experience to improve and prepare for service to the profession and to mankind.” Manuel was also selected for a Graduate Fellowship with the Central Intelligence Agency Office of General Counsel in Washington, D.C., clerked for the Honorable William E. Moody of El Paso, Texas, and began his legal career focusing on commercial litigation and personal injury cases in both state and federal courts for a law firm in Houston, Texas before joining FCHC. Since joining FCHC, Manuel has had the great honor of taking cases to jury verdict and beyond, including arguing cases before the Supreme Court of Texas. Manuel is a proud member of the Texas Trial Lawyers’ Association and has also gained lifetime admission into the Million and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forums based on the recoveries he has obtained for his clients.

Daniel P. McNerney

Hackensack, NJ

Daniel P. McNerney is a Certified Civil Trial Attorney practicing in Bergen County for more than 30 years. He specializes in personal injury, worker’s compensation, and municipal court matters. He represented 9/11 survivor Will Jimeno. He graduated from George Washington University with a B.A. and J.D. He is a member of the New Jersey Bar, the District Court of New Jersey, 3rd Circuit, United States Supreme Court, and the Mohegan Tribal Bar. He also speaks Spanish.

Tarak Devkota

Kansas City, MO

Tarak Alexander Devkota, founder of Devkota Law Firm LLC, has been a dedicated advocate for individuals in Kansas and Missouri since 1999. He champions justice against government entities, corporations, and large insurance companies. A Missouri native and Kansas City resident since 1996, he holds a biology degree from the University of Missouri and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri-Kansas City (1999). Tarak is recognized for his extensive experience in jury trials and his willingness to tackle complex cases, with over two decades of litigation expertise in personal injury, insurance disputes, and governmental liability. His commitment to fairness has earned him trust and respect in the Kansas and Missouri communities.

Christopher Stombaugh

Farmington Hills, MI

Chris Stombaugh is widely considered one of the top trial lawyers in America today. He has won approximately $200 million in verdicts and settlements for individuals and families. He teaches lawyers throughout the country and is the main instructor at Michigan Auto Law Trial Center. He is also on the teaching faculty at the Trial Lawyers College and speaks regularly at national legal conferences. He is the past president of the Wisconsin Association for Justice.