|
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
|
Chad Coleman
Managing Partner - Northern California |
|
Richard Chavez
Managing Partner - Southern California |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cick on attorney name to view profile. |
|
|
|
|
|
Sacramento HQ & Central Valley Offices - Servicing Sacramento, Stockton, Redding, and Eureka WCAB District Offices
-
 |
Chad Coleman was born in Macon, Georgia. Mr. Coleman moved to Rocklin, California in 1981. In 1995, Mr. Coleman graduated California State University at Sacramento receiving a Bachelor’s of Science in Administration of Criminal Justice with a Minor in Sociology while receiving Dean’s Honor List recognition. In 1999, Mr. Coleman graduated from University of Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, receiving his Juris Doctor while also receiving Dean’s List recognition. Mr. Coleman published in The Transnational Lawyer in 1998 and went on to become that publication’s Managing Editor in 1999.
Mr. Coleman is admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, California Supreme Court, the United States District Court, Eastern District of California, and all California Administrative Law Courts. Mr. Coleman’s practice focuses on the defense and subrogation of employers and insurance carriers for workers’ compensation and related claims.
Mr. Coleman is a Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law. This certification was bestowed in 2005 by the Board of Legal Specialization of the State Bar of California at the recommendation of both fellow lawyers and local Workers’ Compensation Judges.
Mr. Coleman is a frequent lecturer for various educational associations throughout California. Mr. Coleman served on the Board of Directors for the Valley Industrial Claims Association in Sacramento and was its’ president in 2010. Mr. Coleman is also a member of the Claims & Litigation Management Alliance, Association of Workers’ Compensation Professionals, California Coalition on Workers’ Compensation, Professionals in Workers’ Compensation, and the Sacramento County Bar Association Workers' Compensation Section.
When away from work Mr. Coleman enjoys spending time with his wife and son, as well as outdoor activities which include coaching little league, golfing, and fishing.
E-mail: ccoleman@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2300 Ext: 2310
Cell: (916) 300-4323
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Anne Brownell was born in White Plains, New York. She graduated from California State University, Long Beach in 1983 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. Ms. Brownell received her Juris Doctor Degree from Western State University College of Law, Fullerton, CA in 1987. Ms. Brownell was admitted to the California State Bar in 1988. Ms. Brownell became certified with the State Bar of California as a Workers’ Compensation Specialist in 1996.
Ms. Brownell joins Coleman, Chavez and Associates with 25 years of legal experience practicing in workers compensation law. She began practicing in San Diego prior to relocating to Northern California. She has prior experience running her won small law corporation. She has worked as associate attorney for another Northern California defense firm prior to that.
Ms. Brownell’s practice areas include Workers’ Compensation and all related employment matters. As a Certified Specialist in Workers Compensation she represents insurance companies, third-party administrators and employers in defending workers’ compensation claims and all related employment matters. Ms. Brownell is knowledgeable and expereinced with all WCAB judges, board procedures and all aspects of the EAMS system.
Currently, Ms. Brownell is a member of the California Bar Association and Sacramento County Bar Workers' Compensation Section. She is also admitted to the United States Court for the Southern District of California. She has provided legal representation at all Workers Compensation Appeals Boards in Northern California and multiple Boards in Southern California.
When away from work, Anne enjoys visiting her two children with her husband, snow skiing, yoga, gardening and reading.
E-mail: abrownell@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2300 Ext: 2319
Cell: (916) 224-2231
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Melanie Coffman was born is Glasgow, Scotland. She spent her early childhood growing up with her parents and sisters in Scotland, England, and Germany before moving to California in 1989. She played first chair trumpet in the concert band during middle school and scrum-half on her high school’s rugby team.
Mrs. Coffman pursued a Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice from California State University, Sacramento, and graduated Manga Cum Laude in 2004. She was a Collegiate All-American Scholar and belonged to multiple honor societies, including Alpha Phi Sigma and Phi Kappa Phi.
Mrs. Coffman earned her Juris Doctorate in 2007 from the University of Utah, S.J. Quinney College of Law. During law school she was awarded Best in Brief distinction while participating in the Traynor Moot Court Competition. Mrs. Coffman worked as a law clerk in the Housing Division of Utah Legal Services and as a legal intern for the Utah Office of Crime Victim Reparations. She was a member of the Women’s Law Caucus and spent a semester studying law in London as part of the Study Abroad Program.
Mrs. Coffman was admitted to the California State Bar in 2008 and has focused her legal career exclusively on workers’ compensation law. She spent one year representing injured workers before joining Coleman Chavez & Associates in 2009. Mrs. Coffman briefly paused her legal career in 2017 to raise and home school her young sons before returning to her home away from home (Coleman Chavez & Associates) in 2021.
While at Coleman Chavez & Associates, Mrs. Coffman has presented in-house and client training seminars on various aspects of workers’ compensation law and enjoys fostering long term relationships with her clients. She is skilled at taking and defending doctor depositions, litigating triable issues, and negotiating quick and favorable settlements.
Outside of work, Mrs. Coffman spends time with her husband and two sons. Mrs. Coffman met her husband while attending a work function at a River Cats game in 2010 and they married in Hawaii a few years later. Their sons share their love of baseball and are excited to go to their first game to root for the Giants at Oracle Park. The Coffman family recently added a sweet and energetic Labrador puppy, Bochy, to their family. The Coffman crew enjoys camping, swimming, snowboarding, hiking, and relaxing on the beach.
E-mail: mcoffman@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2300 Ext: 2316
Cell: (916) 305-4345
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Sharon Didion was born and raised in Illinois. She spent a year during high school as a Rotary International Youth Exchange Student in Nibe, Denmark and was able to visit 8 other countries during her exchange year. She completed high school in Spring Valley, Ca, and from there attended UCLA, graduating in 1991 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychobiology. During University, she worked for Ronald N. Kent, MD, a neurologist who continues to act as an Agreed Medical Examiner in Southern California. After graduation she worked as a claims assistant, claims examiner and claims supervisor for several insurance companies, third-party administrators and self-administered governmental entities in San Diego. She completed the IEA workers’ compensation coursework and obtained her Self-Insurance Administrator’s Certificate in 1993. While working full time, she attended law school at night, completing her Juris Doctor degree in 2003 at Lincoln Law School of Sacramento. She was admitted to the California State bar that same year.
Since becoming a member of the California State Bar, she has worked in the defense arena throughout the state. She has experience in all aspects of workers’ compensation litigation including filing Petitions for Writ of Review with publication, trials, third-party and employer negligence, uninsured employer litigation, subrogation, CIGA defenses, Education Code, 4850 benefits, public entity work, jurisdictional disputes, depositions and arbitration. Ms. Didion regularly provides training for clients and industry continuing education events.
Away from work, Ms. Didion owns, breeds and shows dairy goats with her 2 teenage daughters. They make goat milk soap, lotions, yogurt and cheese and participate in 4H and county fair events. They also raise chickens and other animals on their ranch.
E-mail: sdidion@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2345
Cell: (530) 417-0795
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Craig A. Kingscott received his undergraduate degree from UC Berkeley in 1982 and his Juris Doctor from UC Hastings College of the Law in 1988. He has practiced workers’ compensation law exclusively since 1988. He has received multiple grants of Writs of Review of workers’ compensation cases by the Courts of Appeal, and has two published decisions. He has been a Certified Specialist in workers’ compensation since 1995.
Mr. Kingscott currently represents employers, self-insureds, and insurance carriers in all aspects of workers’ compensation defense, including Labor Code Section 132a and Serious and Willful Misconduct claims and insurance coverage issues.
E-mail: ckingscott@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2300 Ext: 2313
Cell: (805) 440-2501
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
|
Gareth Trude was born in Los Angeles, California. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from UCLA in 1993.
Mr. Trude received his Juris Doctorate from the University of San Diego in 1996. While attending law school, he had multiple articles published in the California Regulatory Law Reporter.
Mr. Trude was admitted to the California State Bar in 1996 and began practicing workers’ compensation law exclusively in 2000. He became a Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation in 2007 with the recommendation of members of both the applicant’s bar and the defense bar as well as Workers’ Compensation Judges.
Mr. Trude honed his skills in the San Diego region, representing self-insured employers, insurance companies, third-party administrators, and uninsured employers at various WCAB District Offices throughout Southern California to defend them in workers’ compensation claims, serious and willful claims, and Labor Code Section 132a claims. Mr. Trude was also appointed as a Judge Pro-Tem by the WCAB San Diego district office. He relocated to Northern California to join Coleman Chavez & Associates in 2016.
When not at work, Mr. Trude enjoys spending time with his wife and four children. He is active in youth sports and has coached his children’s soccer teams. He enjoys watching soccer as well, particularly the BPL. He is also an avid home brewer.
E-mail: gtrude@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2300 Ext: 2314
Cell: (916) 741-0510
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Britnee Branch was born in Oxnard, California. In 2010, she graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. She graduated magna cum laude with her Juris Doctor from Southwestern Law School in 2016.
While at Southwestern Law School, she was extremely active in the Law Review and Moot Court Honors Programs. She became a Lead Editor on the Executive Board of Law Review. She also participated as both an oralist and writer for the Moot Court Honors Program. She received scholarships and various accolades, including the Dean’s List recognition along with the CALI “Excellence for Future” Award, Law Review Bluebook Award, and Witkin Award for Academic Excellence.
Ms. Branch was admitted to the California State Bar in 2017. Since then, she has exclusively practiced workers’ compensation defense. Prior to joining CCA, she worked at large and reputable workers’ compensation defense firms in Southern California. She has experience representing insurance carriers, self-insured entities, and third-party administrators in all aspects of litigation. She prides herself on being a zealous legal advocate for all her clients.
Outside of work, Ms. Branch can be found travelling to and exploring new places. She also enjoys adventures and quality time with her family, friends, and beloved pets.
E-mail: bbranch@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2334
Cell: (310) 779-8164
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Nicolas S. Stark was born in the bay area and grew up in the greater Sacramento area. He graduated from California State University at Northridge in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Mr. Stark received his Juris Doctor Degree from the University of California at Davis, King Hall School of Law in 2012.
While attending Davis, Mr. Stark participated in mock trials and negotiation competitions as well as serving as an editor on the school’s Environs Law Journal.
Prior to joining Coleman Chavez & Associates, he worked with workers’ compensation defense firms in Sacramento, representing clients throughout Northern California.
Mr. Stark specializes in the defense of workers’ compensation claims on behalf of employers, insurers, and third-party administrators. By working closely with adjusters in developing and pursuing aggressive defense plans aimed at closure, Mr. Stark produces timely and cost-effective results for his clients.
When away from work, Mr. Stark enjoys spending time with his family.
E-mail: nstark@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2300 Ext: 2317
Cell: (916) 301-2332
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
|
Eugene Vinitsky was born in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. He moved to San Francisco, California in 1989. In 2006, Eugene graduated University of California Davis receiving a Bachelor’s of Arts in Philosophy and a Bachelor’s of Arts in Religious Studies. In 2011, he graduated from University of Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, receiving his Juris Doctor and certificate in Trial Advocacy.
Eugene began his Worker’s Compensation career at the largest Applicant’s firm in Sacramento representing injured workers in all facets of their claims. Since then he has represented employers, insurance carriers and TPA’s in all areas of Worker’s Compensation litigation. Eugene was selected to Super Lawyers list of rising stars in Workers Compensation in Northern California 2017-2021.
When not working he enjoys watching the sports, playing with his pets, DIY projects and cooking.
E-mail: evinitsky@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2300 Ext: 2311
Cell: (209) 791-3292
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
|
Mr. Whitelaw was born in Fort Bragg, North Carolina and eventually settled in Northern California. He graduated from Santa Clara University and later obtained his J.D. from Willamette University College of Law in 1994.
After practicing worker’s compensation law for several years, Mr. Whitelaw continued his legal career practicing medical malpractice and personal liability defense. He represented multiple insurance carriers and their clients performing multiple depositions and participating in trial preparation. He also mediated claims and participated in arbitration.
After practicing civil litigation for approximately 15 years, Mr. Whitelaw returned to worker’s compensation, working as both an applicant attorney and defense attorney. He has represented multiple clients and has extensive trial experience.
Mr. Whitelaw has given lectures on various aspects of worker’s compensation law, including the use of AMA Guides as applied to spine impairment and proper preparation for hearings and trials. He has also participated in multiple presentations to various clients focusing on various aspects of worker’s compensation law.
While away from work, he enjoys traveling with his wife and family and golfing.
E-mail: jwhitelaw@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2329
Cell: (916) 213-7465
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
|
Mr. York has been practicing Workers’ Compensation Defense almost exclusively since 2003 when admitted into the California State Bar. He has appeared at most of the California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Boards. While working with applicant attorneys and his clients, his primary goal is to close files, either by negotiation or by trial. He takes a common sense, straight forward approach to reaching resolution. He has numerous take-nothings in his career.
Over his career, Mr. York has represented numerous types of employers – Municipalities, school districts, fast food, retail, construction, oil fields, transportation/ trucking, temporary staffing, grocery, manufacturing, etc.
In his past lives, he has been a firefighter, worked in construction, was a paramedic, worked in County Government regulating ambulances and hospitals, as well as disaster preparedness.
He enjoys freshwater boating and spending time with his wife, dogs, 6 grandchildren and 6 kids. (not necessarily in that order
E-mail: wyork@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2308
Cell: (951) 776-7384
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Adam Hahn was born in Indianapolis, Indiana but has lived in more than ten different states. Adam has worked internationally in Europe and has a diverse background from both his life and career experiences. Before entering the legal profession, Adam’s career endeavors span the gamut from President of an institution of higher education, College Professor, Entrepreneur, Director with a Fortune 200 company to a Staff Member for a California State Assembly Member.
Adam earned his undergraduate degree from California State University at Sacramento, his Master’s in Business Administration from the University of California, Davis and his Juris Doctorate from Lincoln Law School. Adam has also completed his doctorate course studies at the University of Pacific in Leadership and Administration. While in law school Adam won “Best Overall” in the annual Moot Court competition and later won for “Best Advocacy” in the annual Trial Advocacy competition.
Adam has devoted his legal career to workers’ compensation law where he handles all manner of claims. Prior to joining our firm Adam worked for one of the State’s largest Applicant Attorney firms with a concentration in public service employees. Adam then transitioned his practice to the defense of workers’ compensation claims and worked for another statewide defense firm prior to joining Coleman, Chavez and Associates. In his practice, Adam represents clients in all aspects of workers’ compensation litigation, including hearings and trials, as well as Labor Code 132 discrimination and Serious & Willful Misconduct defenses.
Adam is married and the proud father of two children who also serves as an Officer on the Sacramento County Bar Association Workers’ Compensation Division Leadership committee. When he is not working Adam can often be found exploring the great outdoors with his family and their loyal dog.
E-mail: ahahn@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2300 Ext: 2335
Cell: (707) 364-4770
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Brittany Hart was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania but was raised in the Sacramento area. She graduated from the University of California, Davis in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Psychology. Soon after graduation, she began adjusting workers’ compensation claims at Sedgwick. She passed the Self-Insurance Administrators Exam in 2013 and quickly advanced from trainee to senior examiner handling complex workers’ compensation claims and mentoring new adjusters.
While working full-time at Sedgwick, Brittany enrolled in the evening program at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law. During law school, she was a member of the Moot Court Honors Board and an Editor for the University of the Pacific Law Review. During her last year of law school, she completed a judicial externship at the El Dorado County Superior Court. She graduated with distinction and as part of the Traynor Honor Society in 2019 with concentrations in Business Law and Trial and Appellate Advocacy.
During her final semester of law school, Brittany joined Coleman, Chavez, & Associates as a law clerk. After being admitted to the State Bar in 2019, she transitioned into her role as an attorney. Brittany has focused her legal career exclusively on workers’ compensation defense. She has represented clients at all Workers’ Compensation Appeals Boards in Northern California as well as multiple Boards in Southern California. She represents a wide range of employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators and has experience handling all aspects of workers’ compensation litigation from AOE/COE issues to settlements and liens.
Outside of work, Brittany spends most of her time with her husband and two sons. She enjoys traveling (especially to Hawaii), cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Sacramento Kings, checking out new restaurants, and listening to true crime podcasts.
E-mail: bhart@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2327
Cell: (916) 719-8910
V-Card: Download V-Card |
Bay Area Offices - Servicing San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, Santa Rosa and Salinas WCAB District Offices
-
 |
Chad Coleman was born in Macon, Georgia. Mr. Coleman moved to Rocklin, California in 1981. In 1995, Mr. Coleman graduated California State University at Sacramento receiving a Bachelor’s of Science in Administration of Criminal Justice with a Minor in Sociology while receiving Dean’s Honor List recognition. In 1999, Mr. Coleman graduated from University of Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, receiving his Juris Doctor while also receiving Dean’s List recognition. Mr. Coleman published in The Transnational Lawyer in 1998 and went on to become that publication’s Managing Editor in 1999.
Mr. Coleman is admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, California Supreme Court, the United States District Court, Eastern District of California, and all California Administrative Law Courts. Mr. Coleman’s practice focuses on the defense and subrogation of employers and insurance carriers for workers’ compensation and related claims.
Mr. Coleman is a Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law. This certification was bestowed in 2005 by the Board of Legal Specialization of the State Bar of California at the recommendation of both fellow lawyers and local Workers’ Compensation Judges.
Mr. Coleman is a frequent lecturer for various educational associations throughout California. Mr. Coleman served on the Board of Directors for the Valley Industrial Claims Association in Sacramento and was its’ president in 2010. Mr. Coleman is also a member of the Claims & Litigation Management Alliance, Association of Workers’ Compensation Professionals, California Coalition on Workers’ Compensation, Professionals in Workers’ Compensation, and the Sacramento County Bar Association Workers' Compensation Section.
When away from work Mr. Coleman enjoys spending time with his wife and son, as well as outdoor activities which include coaching little league, golfing, and fishing.
E-mail: ccoleman@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2300 Ext: 2310
Cell: (916) 300-4323
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Rebecca Martinez was born in Los Angeles, CA. In the early 2000’s she moved to Northern California to attend the University of California, Berkeley where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature with a concentration in Old English Literature.
In May 2011, Mrs. Martinez received her Juris Doctorate from McGeorge School of Law with a concentration in Intellectual Property. During her law school education, she worked for the public defender’s office and a private family law firm. Her early legal experience was honed as a contract defense attorney where she handled a large volume of litigated files throughout Northern and Southern California. She is well versed in law and motion practice, handling discovery matters, and settling cases.
Mrs. Martinez began working exclusively in workers compensation in 2014. She brings with her, her litigation background resulting in the aggressive defense of her clients, while pushing for early settlement to minimize her clients’ exposure. She is thoughtful and thorough in the handling of her cases, and weighs all litigation and settlement possibilities to provide practical advice to clients for cost-effective and timely resolution of claims.
When away from work Mrs. Martinez enjoys hiking and backpacking all over California, winetasting, and attending Comic Con every year.
E-mail: rmartinez@cca-law.com
Phone: (925) 627-3726
Cell: (831) 204-5591
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Sonya Arellano was born in Los Angeles, CA. She grew up in southern California and moved to the Bay Area to attend UC Berkeley. Ms. Arellano is the first in her family to attend college and become an attorney. While at UC Berkeley, she was actively involved in volunteering for various legal organizations. Ms. Arellano was also a member of JusticeCorps, a program of the California Courts, where she provided extensive legal information to self-represented litigants. She graduated with a double major in American Studies and Honors in Ethnic Studies in 2008.
Ms. Arellano then attended UC Hastings College of the Law. While at UC Hastings, Ms. Arellano was a member of the Civil Justice Clinic, where she successfully obtained Social Security Disability benefits for indigent clients. She also served as an Editor for the Women’s Law Journal. Additionally, Ms. Arellano clerked for Judge Ronald Quidachay in San Francisco and assisted with legal research to help inform the judge’s decisions. Ms. Arellano then received her law degree in 2011.
In the early part of her career as an attorney, Ms. Arellano zealously represented hundreds of clients in Social Security disability matters where she appeared before various administrative law judges throughout California. She brought that same zeal into workers’ compensation defense. She began exclusively practicing workers’ compensation defense in 2018. Prior to joining Coleman Chavez, Ms. Arellano was an attorney at another statewide workers’ compensation defense firm. She has experience in representing insurance carriers, self-insured employers, third party administrators and public entities in all aspects of workers’ compensation defense. Ms. Arellano enjoys devising creative and cost-effective solutions for the resolution of claims.
Outside of work, Ms. Arellano is a member of the La Raza Lawyers Association in San Francisco as well as Women Lawyers of Alameda County. In her free time, Ms. Arellano loves spending time with her young daughter traveling and teaching her about all the great things life has to offer. She enjoys attending concerts, dancing, wine tasting, and trying new cuisines. Ms. Arellano loves animals, but especially enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Armani, and Versace.
E-mail: sarellano@cca-law.com
Phone: (925) 627-3708
Cell: (408) 444-5875
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Tiffany Leigh Patel is a Northern California native and grew up on the family farm in the Central Valley. In 2008, Mrs. Patel graduated from the University of the Pacific with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Political Science, minoring in pre-law. She went on to make Dean’s list and graduated with her Juris Doctorate from Golden Gate University School of Law in 2014.
Mrs. Patel brings years of successful civil and administrative litigation experience to Coleman Chavez & Associates. In addition to successfully litigating before a judge and jury, Mrs. Patel settled hundreds of real estate cases, consistently achieving the best settlement results at her firm. She began her worker’s compensation career at a Bay Area law firm representing employers, insurers, and third-party administrators. She has efficaciously developed and resolved claims that produced time and cost effective resolutions for her clients.
She is an active member in the legal community participating in local Bar Association chapters including the Queen’s Bench Bar Association, which is dedicated towards promoting equality and opportunity for all women.
When she isn’t in the courtroom or participating in a community event you’ll find her either on the soccer pitch, at a local stadium, London, or spending time with her family.
E-mail: tpatel@cca-law.com
Phone: (209) 969-8433
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
|
Ms. Vaquero attended the University of California in Berkeley, California, receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in Architecture in 1994. Thereafter, she studied law at Loyola Marymount School of Law in Los Angeles receiving her Juris Doctor degree in 2001. Ms. Vaquero has been a practitioner in the field of workers’ compensation since entering practice in 2001.
In 2001, Ms. Vaquero began her workers’ compensation practice representing injured workers. She learned to advocate and secure deserved benefits within the system. In 2005, she took her expertise to the other side of the isle to represent employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators. She has specialized in defense practice ever since. She has worked in all facets of defense practice from Associate Attorney to Managing Attorney and even run satellite offices for larger statewide firms.
Ms. Vaquero is an expert in workers’ compensation defense practice. She has done it all, from deposing medical experts on complex issues to litigating high dollar cases at Trial. She has deposed hundreds of injured workers and attended hundreds of WCAB Hearings at venues up and down the state.
In her spare time, Ms. Vaquero enjoys spending time with her family. She enjoys traveling, reading, and attending concerts. She is learning play the piano and Italian and French.
E-mail: cvaquero@cca-law.com
Phone:(925) 627-3702
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Peter Yoon was born in Los Angeles, California. As a Los Angeles native, Mr. Yoon grew up in Glendale, California. Mr. Yoon graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a degree in Criminology, Law, and Society. Prior to pursuing law, he also taught English to pre-school and elementary students in South Korea. Mr. Yoon completed his Juris Doctorate at the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. During law school, Mr. Yoon assisted with legal ethics research. He also served as an extern for Honorable Judge A. James Robertson at the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco.
Prior to joining Coleman, Chavez & Associates, Mr. Yoon practiced workers’ compensation defense, representing insurance carriers, third party administrators, self-insured employers, and government entities in various aspects of litigation.
In his spare time, Mr. Yoon enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, and motorsports.
E-mail: pyoon@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 395-9086
Cell: (818) 618-2498
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Jordan was raised in Fresno, CA where he also attended California State University, Fresno. He graduated with a degree in Political Science in 2011. During his time at Fresno State, Jordan coached high school basketball.
Upon graduation, Jordan attended San Joaquin College of Law and graduated in 2014. Jordan was voted onto the student council as the treasurer while working full time as a certified law clerk in criminal defense and business litigation. Jordan also externed for U.S. Magistrate Judge Beck reviewing, researching, and drafting responses to Writs of Habeas Corpus.
He has worked as defense counsel in workers’ compensation since 2021. He attributes his success in representing his clients to his experience in litigation and business to find an economically sound resolution that has generated several direct referrals in his two years.
When he is not working, he enjoys traveling with his wife, golfing, playing basketball, and discussing legal precedent with his father, a retired superior court judge.
E-mail: jpenner@cca-law.com
Phone: (925) 627-3704
Cell: (559) 666-4954
V-Card: Download V-Card |
Salinas Offices - Servicing Salinas, San Luis Obispo, and San Jose WCAB District Offices
-
 |
Rebecca Martinez was born in Los Angeles, CA. In the early 2000’s she moved to Northern California to attend the University of California, Berkeley where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature with a concentration in Old English Literature.
In May 2011, Ms. Martinez received her Juris Doctorate from McGeorge School of Law with a concentration in Intellectual Property. During her law school education, she worked for the public defender’s office and a private family law firm. Her early legal experience was honed as a contract defense attorney where she handled a large volume of litigated files throughout Northern and Southern California. She is well versed in law and motion practice, handling discovery matters, and settling cases.
Ms. Martinez began working exclusively in workers compensation in 2014. She brings with her, her litigation background resulting in the aggressive defense of her clients, while pushing for early settlement to minimize her clients’ exposure. She is thoughtful and thorough in the handling of her cases, and weighs all litigation and settlement possibilities to provide practical advice to clients for cost-effective and timely resolution of claims.
When away from work Ms. Martinez enjoys hiking and backpacking all over California, winetasting, and attending Comic Con every year.
E-mail: rmartinez@cca-law.com
Phone: (925) 627-3726
Cell: (831) 204-5591
V-Card: Download V-Card |
Fresno Offices - Servicing Fresno, Bakersfield, Stockton, & San Luis Obispo
-
 |
Jeremy Crowley was born in Alexandria, Virginia. Mr. Crowley moved to Fresno, California in 2006. Mr. Crowley graduated from Brigham Young University at Utah in 2002 with a Bachelor of Arts, and received his Juris Doctor Degree from the University Of Michigan State College Of Law in 2002.
Mr. Crowley focuses on defending insurance carriers, third-party administrators, and self-insured employers in all areas of workers’ compensation law. His early legal skills were honed as a family law attorney where he handled a large volume of litigated cases in the counties in the Central Valley of California.
Mr. Crowley is well versed in law and motion practice, discovery, settling cases and trials. Mr. Crowley is affiliated with the Fresno Industrial Claims Association and Professionals in Workers’ Compensation-Fresno.
When away from work, Mr. Crowley enjoys spending time with his 4 children, as well as outdoor activities which include playing basketball and volunteering with Boy Scouts of America.
E-mail: jcrowley@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 490-2311 Ext: 2308
Cell: (916) 749-8428
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Alex Chechelnik was born in Ukraine, and raised in Los Angeles, CA. Alex earned a Political Science degree from San Diego State University and graduated from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in 2012. He passed the bar the same year.
Alex’s practice includes representing insurance carriers, third-party administrators, and self-insured employers in all areas of state workers’ compensation law. Alex has appeared in most venues up and down California. In addition to case-in-chief matters, Alex has experience in litigating Subrogation claims, 132a claims, and appellate work with the WCAB.
Outside of work, Alex enjoys spending time with his wife and son, outdoor activities, and travelling.
E-mail: achechelnik@cca-law.com
Phone: (818) 825-0696
Cell: (818) 825-0696
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Scott Darling was born in Lafayette, Indiana but grew up in Tulare, California. Mr. Darling graduate from California State University in Fresno, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology. He went on to serve as a Deputy Probation Officer for the County of Fresno for 15 years.
In 2010, Mr. Darling graduated from San Joaquin College of Law. During his studies he earned Witkin Award recognition in Contracts, Research & Writing, and Professional Responsibility. Following his admission to the California State Bar, Mr. Darling began his legal career as a criminal attorney where he advocated in both misdemeanor and felony cases.
Mr. Darling practices in Coleman Chavez & Associates’ Fresno Office. He defends insurance carriers, third-party administrators, and self-insured employers in all areas of worker’s compensation litigation. He is also well versed in defending employers in Labor Code 132(a) and Serious & Willful allegations.
Mr. Darling currently admitted to practice in the California Supreme Courts, the United States District Court, Eastern District of California, all State Courts and all Administrative Law Courts including the Worker’s Compensation Appeals Board. Mr. Darling is a member of the Fresno County Bar Association, Fresno Industrial Claims Association, and the Professionals in Workers’ Compensation chapter in Fresno. Mr. Darling is a member of the San Joaquin College of Law Alumni Association and previously served as the Association’s Vice President in 2016 and President in 2017.
Away from the office, Mr. Darling enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters, as well as playing golf and avidly following his beloved Chicago Cubs.
E-mail: sdarling@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 490-2311 Ext: 8002
Cell: (925) 446-0999
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Emilee Roverud was born in Salt Lake City, Utah. Mrs. Roverud received her undergraduate degree from Eastern Washington University, majoring in psychology with a minor in anthropology, Summa Cum Laude. She received her law degree in San Diego from California Western School of Law, Cum Laude. During her time in law school, Mrs. Roverud participated in the California Innocence Project where she helped wrongfully convicted individuals fight their convictions. Mrs. Roverud is currently licensed to practice law in California and Utah.
Mrs. Roverud's practice includes representing insurance carriers, third-party administrators, and self-insured employers in all areas of state workers’ compensation law since 2015. Mrs. Roverud serves Fresno, Bakersfield, San Luis Obispo, Salinas, and Stockton. Mrs. Roverud serves on the Fresno Industrial Claims Association and is a frequent lecturer at local educational associations.
When away from work, Mrs. Roverud enjoys spending time with her husband, two dogs, and cat, as well as spending time in the mountains skiing, hiking, and biking.
E-mail: ebrown@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 490-1510
Cell: (559) 230-9660
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Cory Massey was born in Fresno, California. He graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2014 with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology. Mr. Massey returned to Fresno and received his Juris Doctor Degree from San Joaquin College of Law in 2019. Mr. Massey Was admitted to the California State Bar in 2020.
Mr. Massey’s practice areas include Workers’ Compensation, Family Law, and Estate Planning. He began practicing Workers’ Compensation in 2021 and joined Coleman Chavez and Associates in 2023. In that time, he earned a reputation for aggressively representing his clients and resolving complicated claims.
When way from work, Mr. Massey enjoys spending time with his family as well as hiking, camping, and fishing.
E-mail: cmassey@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 570-0470
Cell: (559) 824-2997
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Adrianna Maldonado was born and raised in Fresno, California. She graduated from University of California, Davis with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish. She received her Juris Doctor Degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego, California. She was admitted to the California State Bar in 2013.
Ms. Maldonado’s experience includes both defense and applicant work giving her a broader understanding of Workers’ Compensation law. She is fluent in Spanish making her a sought-after attorney in defense of In Pro Per cases.
When away from work, Ms. Maldonado enjoys spending time with her family, running, and travelling.
E-mail: Amaldonado@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 573-9991
Cell: (559) 313-4005
V-Card: Download V-Card |
Encino/Van Nuys Offices - Servicing Marina Del Rey, Van Nuys, Los Angeles, Oxnard and Santa Barbara WCAB District Offices
-
 |
William Hong was born in Seoul, South Korea and was raised in the Inland Empire in Southern California. Mr. Hong is an associate attorney with the law firm Coleman, Chavez & Associates. His primary concentration is in workers’ compensation law.
Prior to joining Coleman, Chavez & Associates, Mr. Hong represented a range of clients in matters involving workers’ compensation, bankruptcy, and general civil litigation including personal injury. He has represented insured and uninsured employers, as well as, major third-party administrators in workers’ compensation defense. Mr. Hong has also represented insolvent debtors and secured lenders in both simple and complex bankruptcy matters.
Mr. Hong obtained his Bachelor of Arts degrees from the University of California, Riverside in Political Science and History in 2004. He continued on to earn his Juris Doctorate from the New England School of Law in Boston, Massachusetts in 2009. He was admitted to practice law within the state of California since December of 2009. He is also admitted to practice in all California Federal District Courts.
During his matriculation at the New England School of Law, Mr. Hong has interned and clerked with judges in Suffolk County Superior Court as well as for the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office with their Medicare/Medicaid Fraud Unit.
Mr. Hong resides in downtown Los Angeles. Outside of work he enjoys running, watching basketball games, trying out new restaurants , spending time with family and friends, and watching 80’s and 90’s movies obsessively.
E-mail: whong@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 395-9088
Cell: (951) 333-4644
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Amar Chauhan was born in Southern California’s San Fernando Valley. He studied Criminology, Law and Society at the University of California, Irvine where he was on the Dean’s List for Excellence in Academics. While in college, Mr. Chauhan was a communications coordinator for The Center for Women and Men and acted as a campus liaison conducting workshops in gender equity, women’s issues, and equality. He served as a Teaching Assistant in the Department of Social Ecology. He was also a Resident Advisor mediating student conflicts, enforcing campus policy, and providing guidance to underclassmen. He received his Bachelor of Arts with an emphasis in law as well as a minor in Business Management in 2003.
Thereafter, he obtained his Juris Doctorate at Loyola Law School, Los Angeles in 2006. During Law School, he worked as a research assistant in Civil Procedure. He had a Judicial Externship in the Los Angeles Superior Court of the Honorable J. Richard Wolfe. He also had a Legal Internship with one of the largest mortgage lenders in the country in their Litigation and Bankruptcy Departments. Mr. Chauhan has dedicated his entire career to Workers’ Compensation Defense Law and has been practicing since graduating law school.
He brings over ten years of experience in the field to Coleman, Chavez & Associates emphasizing accessibility, prompt and effective client communication and settlement negotiations. He has litigated all areas of workers’ compensation including subrogation, serious and willful claims and Labor Code Section 132a claims. Mr. Chauhan has represented self-insured corporations, third-party administrators, major insurance carriers and governmental entities.
In his off-time, he enjoys watching basketball, soccer and baseball and taking road trips in the Jeep with his wife, two children and their Labradoodle, Astro.
E-mail: achauhan@cca-law.com
Phone: (818) 751-5737
Cell: (818) 312-7261
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
J. Scott Ferris was born in Maryland but was raised in the San Fernando Valley, where he currently resides with his wife and family. He graduated with honors from University of Nevada Las Vegas with a Bachelor of Arts in English. He then received his Juris Doctorate Degree from Southwestern University and became a member of the California State Bar in 1999.
Mr. Ferris has litigated and tried criminal, civil and workers compensation claims. He has defended against 132(a) claims and serious and willful misconduct allegations. He has developed methods of litigating both workers compensation claims and subrogation actions concurrently to not only save the client money on having to pay for two attorneys for such litigation, but also enabling the client to obtain reimbursement for benefits paid while closing the workers compensation matter.
Mr. Ferris has worked at prestigious law firms throughout his career where he has represented insurance companies, self-insured employers, cities, counties, hospitals, and school districts. He has worked throughout the Southern California workers compensation appeals boards and is familiar with all aspects of the various workers compensation appeals boards and judges.
While away from work, Mr. Ferris can be found coaching his kids’ teams, reading, and cooking for his family.
E-mail: sferris@cca-law.com
Phone: (818) 232-7805
Cell: (818) 516-6628
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Andrea Navarro’s experience and expertise is in all aspects of workers’ compensation defense of insurance carriers and self-insured employers. She litigates claims from inception to closure, including Expedited Hearings, Trial, and Arbitration.
Prior to practicing in the field of workers’ compensation, Ms. Navarro developed a background in civil litigation while working for employment law firms. Throughout her legal career, Ms. Navarro participated in pro bono legal clinics with the Los Angeles Center for Law and Justice and the Los Angeles Superior Court Default Assistance Program as well as clean water advocacy organizations such as Santa Monica Baykeeper and Orange County Coastkeeper.
During law school, Ms. Navarro was a Center for International and Comparative Law Fellow, interned at LPS Abogados, a law office in Santander, Spain, and studied at L'Université de Toulouse in Toulouse, France. Additionally, she was a member of the Moot Court Honors Board and participated in various state and national moot court competitions, including the Annual Student Environmental Negations Competition and the Philip C. Jessup International Moot Court Competition. Most notably, she earned several CALI Awards, received the Dean’s Citation Award at commencement, and acted as her school’s Student Bar Association Vice-President, serving as the Philanthropy Chairperson by organizing monthly fundraisers to benefit local non-profit organizations.
Proficient in Spanish, Ms. Navarro minored in Spanish literature and language studies and studied political science at La Universidad de Complutense in Madrid, Spain, for an academic year as an undergraduate at the University of California, Irvine.
Ms. Navarro grew up in Los Angeles. She enjoys eating, reading, and traveling her way through life. She works in the Encino offce and handles appearances throughout Southern California.
E-mail: anavarro@cca-law.com
Phone: (323) 741-1456
Cell: (323) 741-1456
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
-
 |
Julio C. Salazar was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley. He graduated from UCLA in 1997 with honors with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Upon graduating as a Distinguished Military Graduate from UCLA ROTC, Mr. Salazar became a commissioned an officer for the United States Army. Mr. Salazar received his Juris Doctorate Degree from Loyola La School in 2000. Mr. Salazar became a member of the State Bar of California in 2008. He then served four years active duty in the Army Judge Advocate General Corps where he provided legal assistance to soldiers and commanders and was a part time military magistrate.
Prior to working for Coleman Chavez & Associates, Mr. Salazar gained valuable experience working for one of California’s largest workers’ compensation defense law firms where he represented insurance carries, self-insured employers, school districts, counties, and municipalities and TPAs in all aspects of workers compensation to include Labor Code Section 132a and Serious and Willful Petitions. Mr. Salazar also has extensive experience with subrogation in the field of workers compensation and is familiar will all aspects of this litigation. Mr. Salazar has over 17 years’ experience as a workers compensation defense attorney.
While away from work, Mr. Salazar can be found reading an interesting military history book, walking his pet Husky Loki, catching a Dodgers game, or spending time with his family.
E-mail: jsalazar@cca-law.com
Phone: (818) 232-7284
Cell: (818) 472-0273
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
-
 |
Kenton Trigger was raised in Loomis, California – a small town located in the foothills near Sacramento. He attended California State University of Chico where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with an option in Legal Studies in 2009. In 2014, Mr. Trigger graduated with Distinction from University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor degree with a concentration in Business Law. While at McGeorge, Mr. Trigger volunteered at both the Housing Mediation and Bankruptcy Clinics where he mediated disputes between tenants and landlords and assisted the local community in their bankruptcy proceedings. He was also a staff writer and ultimately a became Comment Editor for the McGeorge Law Review.
Since graduating law school, Mr. Trigger has been focused solely on the practice of workers’ compensation law. He has worked for successful defense firms in both northern and southern California, giving him exposure and litigation experience at Workers’ Compensation Appeals Boards throughout the state. Prior to joining Coleman Chavez & Associates, Mr. Trigger ran a successful Applicant’s practice giving him a unique perspective and ability to anticipate issues and bring claims to a quick resolution.
While working defense, Mr. Trigger has handled a variety of issues, from settlement negotiations to trials, and has represented a wide variety of self-insured employers, public entities, insurers, and third-party administrators throughout California. He strongly believes that communication and actively listening to the client’s needs are imperative for a quick resolution. Above all, he believes all claims are defensible.
When away from work, Mr. Trigger enjoys spending time with his wife, who is a Physician Assistant for an Urgent Care and Family Practice. He has two dogs and cats and enjoys traveling, golf, and reality TV.
E-mail: ktrigger@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 245-2007
Cell: (916) 759-7981
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Nune Arutyunyan was born in Armenia and raised in New York and California. She is fluent in Armenian and Russian. She earned her bachelors degree in Business Law from California State of Northridge.
In 2015, Ms. Arutyunyan began working as case manager and digital marketing manager at a personal injury, employment, and business litigation law firm. While working full time, Ms. Arutyunyan attended the University of West Los Angeles School of Law part-time, in the evening. During her law school career, Ms. Arutyunyan earned the Witkin Award of Academic Excellence in Evidence and Wills and Trusts. She was student mentor in Evidence, Constitutional Law, and Wills and Trusts. Ms. Arutyunyan graduated law school in May 2021 and became a member of the California State Bar in November of 2021.
Ms. Arutyunyan has a twin sister. She competed in Cross Country, Track and Field and threw javelin at the collegiate level. Her hobbies include hiking, camping, going on adventures with her husband and their Labrador, Bella and Armenian Gampr, Lion-Bear, and spending time with friends and friends.
E-mail: narutyunyan@cca-law.com
Phone: (818) 751-5740
Cell: (818) 334-7738
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Anahit Keshishian was born in Glendale, California. In 20171 she graduated from University of
California, Irvine where she double majored and received a Bachelor's degree in Political
Science and Anthropology. She earned recognition on the Dean's Honor List four years in a row
and graduated Cum Laude. Anahit was an active member of the Pi Omicron chapter of the Pi
Sigma Alpha National Political Science society. In 2020, she moved on to receive her Juris
Doctorate from Loyola Law School Los Angeles. There, she was an active member of the
Criminal law Society.
Ms. Keshishian has been practicing Worker's Compensation law since her admittance to the Bar
in January 2020. She also regularly volunteers with Armenia Fund to help displaced families and
children in her homeland.
When away from work, Ms. Keshishian enjoys spending time with her family and friends, as
welt as traveling and experiencing different cultural cuisines. She has a love for music, the
beach, and a good book.
E-mail: akeshishian@cca-law.com
Phone: (818) 301-5752
Cell: (818) 454-3331
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Danielle Paloyo was born in Manila, Philippines and was raised in Santa Clarita, California. As a Filipino native, she speaks fluent Tagalog.
Ms. Paloyo graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara a year early in 2012 and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, with a minor in Education and Applied Psychology.
After taking a gap year, Ms. Paloyo attended Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles. During law school, she clerked for the Honorable Judge Hayden Zacky at the San Fernando Superior Court and was a legal advocate at Southwestern Law School's Immigration Law Clinic and Children's Rights Clinic.
Since being admitted to the State Bar of California, Ms. Paloyo's primary focus has been workers' compensation defense litigation. Though this experience, she has represented insurance companies, third party administrators, and public entities at various Workers' Compensation Appeals Boards in Southern California at all different stages of their claim.
Outside of work, Ms. Paloyo enjoys spending time with her fiancé, four cats, and two Guinea pigs. She loves eating good food, spending time with friends, traveling, watching movies, and playing video games.
E-mail: dpaloyo@cca-law.com
Phone: (747) 215-9346
Cell: (323) 524-8940
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Fernando Lujan is an experienced workers' compensation hearing representative in the Los Angeles area. With over 10 years of experience, he has gained a deep understanding of the complexities of workers' compensation.
Fernando's ability to speak both English and Spanish fluently makes him an excellent communicator. He is also passionate about his work and is dedicated to providing the best possible representation.
In his spare time, Fernando enjoys traveling, staying active, and engaging in outdoor activities, including golfing.
E-mail: flujan@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 669-2171
Cell: (562) 392-2186
V-Card: Download V-Card |
L.A. Offices - Servicing Los Angeles, Marina Del Rey, Long Beach and Van Nuys WCAB District Offices
-
 |
Richard Chavez was born in Laguna Beach, California. He graduated from California State University at Sonoma in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in Criminal Justice. Mr. Chavez received his Juris Doctor Degree from the University of Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in 1999. While at McGeorge, he was admitted to the Roger J. Traynor Honor Society on May 15, 1998. Mr. Chavez was admitted to the California State Bar in 1999.
Mr. Chavez's practice areas include Workers' Compensation, Workers' Compensation Subrogation, Appellate, and Employment Counseling & Litigation. He previously worked for Cuneo, Black, Ward & Missler as a Partner and Associate. He is now a founding partner of Coleman Chavez & Associates LLP. Mr. Chavez has extensive experience representing employers in a full range of employment related issues, including discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, civil rights and unfair competition proceedings. Additionally, Mr. Chavez has represented public entities on civil rights claims, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Title IX. He also has substantial experience in complex tort claims involving product liability and premise issues, industrial workplace injuries, and construction site accidents.
Currently, Mr. Chavez is a member of the Sacramento Bar Association, San Francisco Bar Association, The Hispanic National Bar Association, La Raza Lawyers of California, La Raza Lawyers of Sacramento, California State Bar Workers' Compensation Section, Sacramento County Bar Workers' Compensation Section, and the Valley Industrial Claims Association. In addition, Mr. Chavez occasionally speaks to businesses regarding employment related issues.
When away from work, Mr. Chavez enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 children, as well as golfing, tennis, baseball, and traveling.
E-mail: rchavez@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2312
Cell: (916) 607-3300
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Jose Morales is a 2008 graduate of San Diego State University where he received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He continued on to Loyola Law School where he received his Juris Doctor in 2011. In 2011 Mr. Morales was admitted to practice law before the State of California, the Central District of California, and all administrative courts.
During law school Mr. Morales worked as a clerk first for the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and then for the Orange County Public Defender’s Office. Thereafter Mr. Morales began practicing as an attorney and representing clients in mass tort litigation in both State and Federal Courts. He began his workers' compensation law practice in 2013 focusing solely on workers' compensation defense. Since that time he has represented insurance carriers, employers, third-party administrators, and Professional Employer Organizations in all aspects of workers’ compensation litigation.
In his spare time, Mr. Morales enjoys spending time with family, as well as traveling, camping, and hiking.
E-mail: jmorales@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 395-9084
Cell: (805) 588-4906
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
J. Gabriel Amezcua grew up in Davis, California and graduated from UC Davis with a double major in History and Spanish. Mr. Amezcua continued his education at San Francisco State University, where he received a Master of Arts in History. Mr. Amezcua then moved to Southern California, where he attended Loyola Law School and received his Juris Doctor while serving as a research assistant, editor, and student mentor. Mr. Amezcua became a member of the State Bar of California in 2008.
Prior to working for Coleman Chavez & Associates, Mr. Amezcua gained invaluable experience working for one of California's largest workers' compensation defense law firms, where he represented insurance carriers, self-insured employers, school districts, counties, and municipalities, and TPAs in all aspects of workers' compensation defense. Mr Amezcua has over ten years of experience as a workers' compensation defense attorney.
When away from work, Mr. Amezcua and his wife can be found traveling with their dogs in tow, hanging out with their amazing family, or grabbing a bite and a pint at the local soccer pub.
E-mail: gamezcua@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2300
Cell: (626) 232-5657
V-Card: Download V-Card
|
-

|
Jacqueline A. Clemett is an associate attorney in the Los Angeles office of Coleman, Chavez & Associates, LLP.
Ms. Clemett graduated from the University of California at Los Angeles in 1994. As a result of her studies, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and International Relations. During this time Ms. Clemett was distinguished with Summa Cum Laude designation. After completing her undergraduate degree, she enrolled at the University of Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento. In 1998, she completed her studies and was conferred a juris doctor degree while receiving Magna Cum Laude recognition.
During her legal education Ms. Clemett studied abroad at the Universitat de Salzburg in Salzburg, Austria. She also studied at La Universite de La Sorbonne in Paris, France.
Following school, Ms. Clemett was admitted to the State Bar of California in 1999 and thereafter began her legal practice. Since 1999 she has been practicing Workers’ Compensation law throughout the greater Los Angeles area. In that time she has gained valuable experience representing a wide variety of clients including self-insured employers, insurance companies and legally uninsured employers.
Ms. Clemett is considered an expert in her field, receiving a Certificate of Specialization in Workers’ Compensation designation from her peers and the California Board of Legal Specialization in 2005.
Ms. Clemett is fluent in the Spanish language and is conversationally proficient in the French language.
E-mail: jclemett@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 395-9098
Cell: (714) 350-3112
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Vanessa Coe was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. She currently works in the firm’s Los Angeles office.
In 2010, Ms. Coe graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Ms. Coe received her Juris Doctor Degree from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles in 2015.
During and after law school, Ms. Coe spent several years practicing Civil Litigation, where she obtained an extensive background in Labor and Employment law and litigated cases at all levels of State and Federal courts. She has experience in a wide range of employment disputes, ranging from discrimination, wrongful termination, as well as class action wage and hour cases.
Ms. Coe's employment law background allowed her to seamlessly transition into Workers’ Compensation. Prior to joining Coleman & Chavez, she worked for a defense firm representing the interests of multiple employers, insurance carriers and third-party administrators throughout the Southern California WCAB District Offices. Ms. Coe’s background allows her to thoughtfully and effectively analyze and assess the value of claims while avidly advocating for her clients' interests.
Ms. Coe is fluent in Spanish. When away from work, Ms. Coe enjoys traveling and spending time with friends and family.
E-mail: vcoe@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 395-9087
Cell: (310) 714-8292
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Theresa Hardjadinata was born in Torrance, California but was raised in Cerritos, California. She graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Arts degree and majors in Economics and Political Science in 2003. Upon graduation, she enrolled in the University of California, Davis School of Law, graduating with a Juris Doctor degree in 2006. While at UC Davis, Ms. Hardjadinata was a member of University of California, Davis Law Review and spent a summer as a judicial extern for the Honorable Terry J. Hatter of the United States District Court in Los Angeles.
Ms. Hardjadinata spent several years in civil litigation with a focus on insurance defense, including two years in-house in the Sempra Energy Litigation Department.
Prior to Coleman Chavez & Associates, LLP, she spent nine years at Peterson/Hardjadinata and Associates, Inc., practicing workers’ compensation defense and rising to partner within 5 years. Ms. Hardjadinata has experience in defending self-insurers and carriers in all aspects of workers compensation, including Petitions for 132a benefits, supplemental job displacement vouchers, contribution issues and liens.
In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, exploring different cuisines, and rooting for the Los Angeles Angels.
E-mail: thardjadinata@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 310-8036
Cell: (714) 876-7426
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
David McDonald was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and emigrated to the United States in 1984. He graduated from University of California at Santa Barbara in 1994 with dual Bachelors in Law & Society and Black Studies. In 2002, Mr. McDonald received his Juris Doctor from Pepperdine University School of Law. While at Pepperdine he was a member of the Moot Court Board as well as the Interschool Honors Trial Team. Mr. McDonald was admitted to the State Bar of California in 2006.
Mr. McDonald’s practice areas include Workers’ Compensation, Subrogation and Alternate Dispute Resolution. Mr. McDonald began his legal career practicing all aspects of litigation from 2001 through 2008. He worked as a Deputy District Attorney for Ventura County, where he practiced as a trial lawyer in criminal matters. He began working in workers’ compensation defense in 2011. Mr. McDonald is a member of the State Bar of California and of the United States District Court, Central District of California.
Mr. McDonald volunteers for Jamaica Awareness Association of California, a community group benefitting medical and education programs in the United States and Jamaica. He enjoys exercising, especially running, all types of music, and spending time with family and friends.
E-mail: dmcdonald@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 395-9093
Cell: (323) 217-2381
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Diana L Mejia is an associate attorney with Coleman Chavez & Associates LLP, where she practices Workers' Compensation defense. Prior to entering the field of Workers Compensation, Ms. Mejia worked in general civil and criminal litigation practice, which included but was not limited to construction defect, medical malpractice, personal injury, family law and estate planning. Ms. Mejia has been practicing Worker’s Compensation law since 2002, which includes all aspects of litigation including but not limited to development of litigation plans, drafting legal pleadings and motions, legal research, depositions of applicant’s and physicians, Labor Code Section 132(a) claims, Serious and Willful claims, uninsured employers, and some subrogation. She has also participated in hearings, conferences, arbitrations and trials. Her goal is to always provide the client with assertive and focus oriented representation that will lead to an advantageous resolution of the claim.
Ms. Mejia graduated cum laude from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Thereafter, she earned a Juris Doctor from UCLA School of Law. While at the UCLA School of Law, Ms. Mejia participated in a summer internship with the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Hearings and Appeals in Washington D.C. where she assisted attorneys in matters involving the Crude Oil Refund Program, requests for department information through the Freedom of Information Act and security clearance cases. She also was an intern at the U.S. National Labor Relations Board in Los Angeles where she researched and drafted memorandum in labor law, including unfair labor practices, collective bargaining and union electoral practices. Ms. Mejia is fluent in Spanish.
Education: J.D., University of California, Los Angeles; 1997 | B.A., University of California, Los Angeles; 1994
Admissions: California State Courts | US District Court, Central District of California | U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit | United States Supreme Court | United States Tax Court
E-mail: dmejia@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 395-9094
Cell: (818) 631-0209
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Faisal Moledina was born and raised in Torrance, California. He attended the University of California Santa Barbara, where he appeared on the Dean’s List and graduated with honors in 2009, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Film, Media, & Cultural Studies as well as a minor in Art History. Mr. Moledina then continued on to Loyola Law School on a merit-based scholarship where he earned his Juris Doctorate in May 2015, graduating with Concentrations in Corporate and Intellectual Property Law.
During his legal education, he spent time studying abroad in Beijing, China, broadening his understanding of international judicial systems. Following graduation, Mr. Moledina worked in civil litigation in Santa Monica where he focused on business litigation and partnership disputes, drafting and filing motions and gaining invaluable litigation experience in the California Superior Courts.
Shortly thereafter, he transitioned to practicing workers’ compensation law throughout the state of California, vigorously representing and defending insurance carriers, self-insured employers, third-party administrators, and Professional Employer Organizations in all aspects of workers’ compensation law, including subrogation.
In his spare time, Mr. Moledina enjoys baseball, camping, cycling, and spending time with his family and pet Husky. He has traveled extensively, spending several months backpacking and traveling through South East Asia and Central America. Mr. Moledina speaks intermediate Spanish and Hindi.
E-mail: fmoledina@cca-law.com
Phone: (818) 751-5743
Cell: (310) 902-0307
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Kelly Peterson was born and raised in Worcester, Massachusetts. She moved to Southern California to pursue higher education; obtaining her Bachelor of Arts degree, in Sociology with an Option in Law & Society, from California State University, Los Angeles in 2009. Mrs. Peterson went on to earn her Juris Doctorate from Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles in 2012 and was admitted to the California State Bar in 2013. She is also admitted to practice in all California U.S. District Courts.
Mrs. Peterson is an associate attorney with the law firm Coleman, Chavez & Associates. Her primary concentration is in workers’ compensation law. Mrs. Peterson is well versed in all phases of case handling and is certified by the California State Bar as a Workers’ Compensation Specialist.
Prior to joining Coleman, Chavez & Associates, Mrs. Peterson represented injured workers throughout Southern California, from a large variety of industries in both the public and private sector, in all aspects of litigation before the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board. Her experience practicing on the applicant’s bar provides valuable insight which enables her to fully analyze each case and develop creative strategies to expedite resolution. Mrs. Peterson has also has experience in civil litigation defense.
Outside of work Mrs. Peterson enjoys traveling, exploring different cultures and cuisines, as well as spending time with her husband and two Cavapoo puppies, Oliver and Canelo.
E-mail: kpeterson@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 218-6268
Cell: (323) 244-7263
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Carissa Terry was born and raised in Moreno Valley California. She attended Metropolitan State University of Denver in Colorado. While there she played three years of NCAA Division II softball. She was on the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference All Academic Honor Roll and a NFCA All-American Scholar Athlete. She graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology, and a minor Political Science.
She completed her legal education at the University of La Verne College of Law. She was the Law Review Chief Managing Editor for two years. She also completed an internship at Inland Counties Legal Services in the consumer law department. She also received several CALI Awards for Excellence and was on the Dean’s List. She received her Juris Doctorate in 2021 with Cum Laude honors.
After becoming licensed with the California State Bar in 2021, she began her practice of Workers’ Compensation law. She has worked as a defense attorney for employers, insurers, and third-party administrators. She previously worked at a multi-state workers’ compensation defense firm before joining Coleman Chavez & Associates.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and dogs, watching sports, and trying new recipes.
E-mail: cterry@cca-law.com
Phone: (951) 368-9232
Cell: (951) 368-9232
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Fernando Lujan is an experienced workers' compensation hearing representative in the Los Angeles area. With over 10 years of experience, he has gained a deep understanding of the complexities of workers' compensation.
Fernando's ability to speak both English and Spanish fluently makes him an excellent communicator. He is also passionate about his work and is dedicated to providing the best possible representation.
In his spare time, Fernando enjoys traveling, staying active, and engaging in outdoor activities, including golfing.
E-mail: flujan@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 669-2171
Cell: (562) 392-2186
V-Card: Download V-Card |
Riverside & Inland Empire Offices - Servicing Riverside, San Bernardino, and Pomona WCAB District Offices
-
 |
Richard Chavez was born in Laguna Beach, California. He graduated from California State University at Sonoma in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in Criminal Justice. Mr. Chavez received his Juris Doctor Degree from the University of Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in 1999. While at McGeorge, he was admitted to the Roger J. Traynor Honor Society on May 15, 1998. Mr. Chavez was admitted to the California State Bar in 1999.
Mr. Chavez's practice areas include Workers' Compensation, Workers' Compensation Subrogation, Appellate, and Employment Counseling & Litigation. He previously worked for Cuneo, Black, Ward & Missler as a Partner and Associate. He is now a founding partner of Coleman Chavez & Associates LLP. Mr. Chavez has extensive experience representing employers in a full range of employment related issues, including discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, civil rights and unfair competition proceedings. Additionally, Mr. Chavez has represented public entities on civil rights claims, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Title IX. He also has substantial experience in complex tort claims involving product liability and premise issues, industrial workplace injuries, and construction site accidents.
Currently, Mr. Chavez is a member of the Sacramento Bar Association, San Francisco Bar Association, The Hispanic National Bar Association, La Raza Lawyers of California, La Raza Lawyers of Sacramento, California State Bar Workers' Compensation Section, Sacramento County Bar Workers' Compensation Section, and the Valley Industrial Claims Association. In addition, Mr. Chavez occasionally speaks to businesses regarding employment related issues.
When away from work, Mr. Chavez enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 children, as well as golfing, tennis, baseball, and traveling.
E-mail: rchavez@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2312
Cell: (916) 607-3300
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
William Hong was born in Seoul, South Korea and was raised in the Inland Empire in Southern California. Mr. Hong is an associate attorney with the law firm Coleman, Chavez & Associates. His primary concentration is in workers’ compensation law.
Prior to joining Coleman, Chavez & Associates, Mr. Hong represented a range of clients in matters involving workers’ compensation, bankruptcy, and general civil litigation including personal injury. He has represented insured and uninsured employers, as well as, major third-party administrators in workers’ compensation defense. Mr. Hong has also represented insolvent debtors and secured lenders in both simple and complex bankruptcy matters.
Mr. Hong obtained his Bachelor of Arts degrees from the University of California, Riverside in Political Science and History in 2004. He continued on to earn his Juris Doctorate from the New England School of Law in Boston, Massachusetts in 2009. He was admitted to practice law within the state of California since December of 2009. He is also admitted to practice in all California Federal District Courts.
During his matriculation at the New England School of Law, Mr. Hong has interned and clerked with judges in Suffolk County Superior Court as well as for the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office with their Medicare/Medicaid Fraud Unit.
Mr. Hong resides in downtown Los Angeles. Outside of work he enjoys running, watching basketball games, trying out new restaurants , spending time with family and friends, and watching 80’s and 90’s movies obsessively.
E-mail: whong@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 395-9088
Cell: (951) 333-4644
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Attorney Noelle Sage graduated from Chapman University in Orange California in 2007. During her coursework there she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a minor in Spanish. Thereafter she attended Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego California graduating cum laude in 2010. Contemporaneously she obtained a Master of Business Administration from San Diego State University, also 2010.
While in law school, Ms. Sage was a Notes Editor on the Thomas Jefferson Law Review Journal and co-authored an article on patent adjudication. She was also a judicial intern for the San Diego Superior Court.
Ms. Sage began her legal career practicing medical malpractice defense in San Diego, CA, where she represented physicians, registered nurses, hospitals and other health care providers in the defense of complex, multi-party claims before the Superior Court, California Court of Appeals, California Medical Board and private arbitrators.
Ms. Sage began working exclusively in workers’ compensation in 2013, representing insurance carriers, self-insured entities, third-party administrators and governmental entities in all aspects of litigation.
Ms. Sage was born, raised and currently lives and works in Orange County California. While away from the office, Ms. Sage enjoys being outdoors and spending time with her husband, son and daughter.
E-mail: nsage@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 232-2979
Cell: (714) 742-0782
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Darla Priscilla Gretzner grew up in the high desert; in the small town of Apple Valley, located in Southern California. Riding horses was her passion. She started riding at twelve years old and enjoyed competition as an Equestrian. Competition took a lot of preparation and dedication which would be essential to a career in law later in life.
Ms. Gretzner was raised by entrepreneur parents. Although not a lawyer himself, her dad was an admirer of the law and encouraged her to pursue a career that would bring independence. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology from California State University, San Bernardino. She went on to earn her Juris Doctorate in 2004 from the University of La Verne, College of Law, where she served on Law Review and was admitted to the State Bar of California in 2005.
She began her career in civil litigation, which included will and trust contests, elder abuse cases, and probate contests. One of the highlights was taking a case to the California State Court of Appeals, and having the opinion published in 2011.
Eventually, Ms. Gretzner moved on to the worker's compensation field representing applicants and enjoying the challenges of the law. After a short period of time, Ms. Gretzner made her move to the defense side. She has been doing worker's compensation defense exclusively since 2013.
When not working, Ms. Gretzner enjoys spending time with her young daughter and husband. She continues with her love of horses. She also enjoys all outdoor sports and activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, boating, bicycling. Traveling is also a must.
E-mail: dgretzner@cca-law.com
Phone: (951) 368-9013
Cell: (909) 908-6579
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Mr. Hoang Nguyen was born in a refugee camp in Thailand. Mr. Nguyen emigrated to Glendale, CA in 1976. In 1999 Mr. Nguyen graduated from San Diego State University receiving a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. In 2005 Mr. Nguyen graduated from California Western School of Law.
Mr. Nguyen is admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of the State of California, the United States District Court, Southern District of California, and all California Administrative Law Courts. Mr. Nguyen’s practice focuses on the defense of employers and insurance carriers for workers’ compensation and related claims.
When away from work, Mr. Nguyen enjoys spending time with his wife and children. When his wife gives him a break from the kids, he enjoys playing golf, although not at a high level.
E-mail: hnguyen@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 279-8128
Cell: (714) 925-9977
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Julie was born in Northern Kentucky. She moved to California while in middle school. She was the first person to participate in and complete the 3+3 program at the University of LaVerne and University of LaVerne College of Law. This program allowed her to complete her bachelor’s in business administration and her Juris Doctorate degrees in 6 years.
Julie has focused her career on the defense of employers and carriers in the field of Workers Compensation, Serious & Willful Misconduct and 132(a) claims. She has dabbled in Bankruptcy and Criminal Defense and volunteered as a Judge Pro Tem for traffic court.
Julie lives in Upland with her husband, dog, and turtle. While not at work she enjoys spending time with her 4 children and 6 grandkids.
Julie welcomes the opportunity to travel anytime she can. Her most memorable trip to date has been a cruise through the Baltic Sea.
E-mail: jsims@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 279-7508
Cell: (951) 741-7882
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Fernando Lujan is an experienced workers' compensation hearing representative in the Los Angeles area. With over 10 years of experience, he has gained a deep understanding of the complexities of workers' compensation.
Fernando's ability to speak both English and Spanish fluently makes him an excellent communicator. He is also passionate about his work and is dedicated to providing the best possible representation.
In his spare time, Fernando enjoys traveling, staying active, and engaging in outdoor activities, including golfing.
E-mail: flujan@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 669-2171
Cell: (562) 392-2186
V-Card: Download V-Card |
Orange County Offices - Servicing Anaheim, Santa Ana, Long Beach, and Pomona WCAB District Offices
-
 |
Richard Chavez was born in Laguna Beach, California. He graduated from California State University at Sonoma in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in Criminal Justice. Mr. Chavez received his Juris Doctor Degree from the University of Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in 1999. While at McGeorge, he was admitted to the Roger J. Traynor Honor Society on May 15, 1998. Mr. Chavez was admitted to the California State Bar in 1999.
Mr. Chavez's practice areas include Workers' Compensation, Workers' Compensation Subrogation, Appellate, and Employment Counseling & Litigation. He previously worked for Cuneo, Black, Ward & Missler as a Partner and Associate. He is now a founding partner of Coleman Chavez & Associates LLP. Mr. Chavez has extensive experience representing employers in a full range of employment related issues, including discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, civil rights and unfair competition proceedings. Additionally, Mr. Chavez has represented public entities on civil rights claims, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Title IX. He also has substantial experience in complex tort claims involving product liability and premise issues, industrial workplace injuries, and construction site accidents.
Currently, Mr. Chavez is a member of the Sacramento Bar Association, San Francisco Bar Association, The Hispanic National Bar Association, La Raza Lawyers of California, La Raza Lawyers of Sacramento, California State Bar Workers' Compensation Section, Sacramento County Bar Workers' Compensation Section, and the Valley Industrial Claims Association. In addition, Mr. Chavez occasionally speaks to businesses regarding employment related issues.
When away from work, Mr. Chavez enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 children, as well as golfing, tennis, baseball, and traveling.
E-mail: rchavez@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2312
Cell: (916) 607-3300
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Attorney Noelle Sage graduated from Chapman University in Orange California in 2007. During her coursework there she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a minor in Spanish. Thereafter she attended Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego California graduating cum laude in 2010. Contemporaneously she obtained a Master of Business Administration from San Diego State University, also 2010.
While in law school, Ms. Sage was a Notes Editor on the Thomas Jefferson Law Review Journal and co-authored an article on patent adjudication. She was also a judicial intern for the San Diego Superior Court.
Ms. Sage began her legal career practicing medical malpractice defense in San Diego, CA, where she represented physicians, registered nurses, hospitals and other health care providers in the defense of complex, multi-party claims before the Superior Court, California Court of Appeals, California Medical Board and private arbitrators.
Ms. Sage began working exclusively in workers’ compensation in 2013, representing insurance carriers, self-insured entities, third-party administrators and governmental entities in all aspects of litigation.
Ms. Sage was born, raised and currently lives and works in Orange County California. While away from the office, Ms. Sage enjoys being outdoors and spending time with her husband, son and daughter.
E-mail: nsage@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 232-2979
Cell: (714) 742-0782
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Claudia Cervantes was born in Garden Grove, CA. She graduated from the University of California, Irvine in 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Mrs. Cervantes earned her Juris Doctorate from Chapman University, School of Law in 2015. While in law school, she was a member of the Public Interest Law Foundation and a staff writer for The Courier.
Prior to law school, Mrs. Cervantes worked at a very busy applicant workers’ compensation firm. She gained valuable experience in managing multiple cases and speaking to applicants about their primary concerns. After being admitted to the CA bar, Mrs. Cervantes devoted her practice to specializing in Workers’ Compensation defense.
Prior to joining Coleman Chavez & Associates, Mrs. Cervantes worked at a large well-known workers’ compensation defense firm. Mrs. Cervantes gained valuable experience from both the applicant and defense side of workers’ compensation cases, which has helped her develop assertive and cost-effective defense strategies that have resulted in early settlements.
While away from the office, Mrs. Cervantes enjoys attending concerts, playing tennis, working out, trying out new restaurants and spending time with friends and family.
E-mail: ccervantes@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 245-2009
Cell: (714) 349-6181
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Peter Pham grew up in Huntington Beach, CA. He graduated from the University of California, Riverside in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and received his Juris Doctor from Loyola Law School in 2010.
During law school, Peter clerked for a nationally renowned plaintiff's firm in Los Angeles where he worked on class action and mass tort litigation. After law school, he served as public service fellow for Public Law Center in Santa Ana where he assisted low-income clients in the areas of landlord-tenant law, property law, elder abuse, and unfair business practices.
Peter entered the field of Workers Compensation defense in 2011. Prior to joining CCA, he was a senior associate at a large defense firm. He is a zealous advocate for his clients and represents public and private employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators.
In his free time, Peter enjoys playing basketball and pickleball, traveling, and spending time with his wife and son. He is an avid foodie and loves discovering new restaurants.
E-mail: ppham@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 245-2005
Cell: (714) 869-7383
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Shana L. Prechtl received her Bachelor of the Arts in Sociology with a minor in Women’s Studies from California State University, Fullerton. She continued to receive her Juris Doctorate in 2001 from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law and was admitted to the State Bar of California in 2001.
Ms. Prechtl began her career as a Law Clerk for the U.S. Department of Labor, Office Administrative Law Judges, Judge Alexander Karst in San Francisco, CA where she was exposed to and gained experience preparing cases for hearing and drafting decisions and orders on complex statutory issues arising under the Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, Defense Base Act, Whistleblower Acts as well as Wage and Hour Laws.
Ms. Prechtl continued her practice in all aspects of Workers’ Compensation defense, subrogation and specializing in the US Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act and its extensions, the Defense Base Act, the Non-Appropriated Funds Instrumentality Act, the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act and War Hazards Ace. Ms. Prechtl has excelled in handling asbestos related workers compensation claims for many years and has successfully trained law clerks and new associates.
In recent years, Ms. Prechtl has expanded her expertise to represent insurance companies and self-insured employers in workers’ compensation cases before the California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Boards throughout Southern California.
E-mail: sprechtl@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 245-2011
Cell: (415) 640-5686
V-Card: Download V-Card |
|
|
-

|
Abigail Balsz was born in Pleasanton, California and grew up in the East Bay Area. She graduated from Chapman University in Orange, California in 2014 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and minors in Psychology and Spanish. During her undergraduate career, she studied abroad in Salamanca, Spain. Ms. Balsz received her Juris Doctor from Pepperdine University School of Law in 2018 with certificates in Alternative Dispute Resolution and Entrepreneurship and the Law.
Ms. Balsz was admitted to the California State Bar in 2018. She has exclusively practiced workers’ compensation defense since 2019, representing employers, insurance agencies, and third-party administrators in both Northern and Southern California. She has experience in all aspects of litigation, including depositions, legal research and writing, settlement conferences, and lien resolution. She always prioritizes her client’s interests and aims to resolve cases early and efficiently.
In her spare time, Abigail enjoys wine tasting, traveling, and spending time with her husband and young son.
E-mail: abalsz@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 279-8199
Cell: (510) 303-0286
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Jeffrey Banner was born in Butte, Montana. Mr. Banner spent his childhood growing up in Gilroy, California, and has been residing in Orange County for 35 years.
In 1986, Mr. Banner graduated from California State University at Chico with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. In 1990, Mr. Banner received his Juris Doctor Degree from Western State University, College of Law. While attending law school, Mr. Banner attended the Summer Law Institute at Cambridge University, Trinity College, in Cambridge, England. Mr. Banner was admitted to the California State Bar in 1990.
In 2015, Mr. Banner earned a certificate for Advanced Mediator Training, Classroom and Practical Training Requirements of the California Dispute Resolution Programs Act of 1986 (Business & Professions Code § 465), and was granted admission to the Orange County Superior Court, Mediator Panel.
Mr. Banner joins Coleman, Chavez and Associates with 30+ years practicing Workers’ Compensation Law, complemented by extensive subrogation and trial experience, specializing in defending catastrophic injuries and high-value losses. Throughout his career, Mr. Banner has developed a diverse portfolio of clients representing different industries, including aerospace, aircraft and helicopter manufacturing, trucking industry, crude oil production, commercial parcel carriers, telecommunications, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, retail sales, restaurants, municipalities, publishing corporations, and staffing agencies.
Mr. Banner holds a Master Membership with the Orange County Bar Association and belongs to the Workers’ Compensation Law, Labor and Employment Law, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Sections.
When away from work, you can find Mr. Banner spending time with his wife and critters, along with cooking, gardening, hiking, and road-tripping. Mr. Banner is a die-hard hockey fan of the Anaheim Ducks. Mr. Banner volunteers his time as a C.E.R.T. (Community Emergency Response Team) member through the Tustin Police Department.
E-mail: jbanner@cca-law.com
Phone: (714) 747-7249
Cell: (714) 747-7249
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Sahar Bartels is a southern California native, who was raised in San Diego. She attended San Diego State University and received her undergraduate degree in 2006 with a focus on International Security and Conflict Resolution. During her undergraduate studies, Ms. Bartels spent a semester studying in Sweden and traveled throughout Europe, Scandinavia and Russia.
Thereafter, Ms. Bartels attended Thomas Jefferson School of Law wherein she obtained her Juris Doctorate in 2009. During law school, Ms. Bartels was part of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Society wherein she served as the Vice President of the Team and helped coach multiple teams in various ADR competitions.
Ms. Bartels began her focus on CA Workers Compensation representing injured workers before electing to permanently transition to defense representation. Having the experience of working on both sides of the litigation arena has provided her a unique perspective of handling claims and informs her litigation and settlement strategies.
She is dedicated to representing employers, insurers, self-insureds, and third-party administrators in the defense of all aspects of workers' compensation actions. She is skilled at managing workers’ compensation claims, to ensure claims are proactively and regularly reevaluated to reach resolution.
While away from work, Ms. Bartels enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, cooking and yoga. She is fluent in Farsi and Turkish.
E-mail: sbartels@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 245-2743
Cell: (619) 301-7304
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
-

|
Catarina Do was born and raised in Southern California. She graduated with honors from the University of California, Santa Barbara. She received her Juris Doctor from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Law in 2010.
While in law school, Ms. Do was part of the Student-Faculty Curriculum Committee. She was also in civil clinic where she represented clients in various civil matters.
Ms. Do began practicing workers’ compensation in 2011 at a defense firm, wherein she represented employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators in all aspects of litigation. Prior to practicing workers’ compensation, Ms. Do interned at Legal Aid and worked at a civil practice.
In her free time, Ms. Do enjoys traveling, photography, and spending time with her family and friends.
E-mail: cdo@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 245-2007
Cell: (714) 386-9936
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Ms. Han was born and raised in Orange County, California. In 2006, she graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of California, Riverside with a degree in Political Science. Ms. Han graduated from Pepperdine Law School in 2011 and was admitted to the California State Bar the same year. During law school, she earned her Certificate in Dispute Resolution focusing on the art of negotiations and continues to utilize her negotiation skills today. Ms. Han was also the President of the Family Law Society at Pepperdine and practiced at a Family Law Firm for a brief period.
Ms. Han thereafter began practicing in the fields of personal injury and plaintiff’s employment law. During that time, she gained experience representing plaintiffs in cases involving sexual harassment, wrongful termination, discrimination along with various other employment related claims.
Ms. Han began exclusively practicing workers’ compensation defense in 2015. She represents insurance carriers, self-insured employers, and public entities in all aspects of workers’ compensation defense throughout Southern California. Ms. Han is not afraid to litigate and has had several favorable trial rulings including “Take-Nothings” in both lien and case-in-chief files.
Ms. Han is fluent in Korean, loves practicing yoga and trying new foods. Outside of the office, she is also an active real estate agent and loves to take on DIY and design projects.
E-mail: jhan@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 279-7508
Cell: (714) 234-5206
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
In August of 2002 Joyce Lim received a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from the University of California, Los Angeles. While at UCLA, Ms. Lim was a Provost Honor’s List and a Dean’s List Scholar. During her undergraduate education Ms. Lim studied abroad for 1 year at the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom. In May of 2008 Ms. Lim received her Juris Doctor from Loyola Law School, where she continued her academic excellence as a member of the prestigious Law Review, a Dean’s List Scholar and as a recipient of the Loyola Academic Scholarship. While in Law School, Ms. Lim served on the Loyola of Los Angeles Law Review and was a member of the Korean American Bar Association.
Ms. Lim started her legal career in 2008 and began exclusively practicing Workers’ Compensation defense in 2011. Since then she has successfully represented employers, insurance companies and third-party administrators throughout Southern California. She has experience handling all phases of Workers’ Compensation litigation from AOE/COE issues to lien issues. Ms. Lim implements a cost effective defense strategy, which has resulted in many early settlements and take nothing awards, including on denied AOE/COE claims. Additionally, she has successfully obtained numerous nuisance value settlements at depositions and hearings to help mitigate client costs. Ms. Lim is a strong believer in the practical importance of early case resolution and strives to resolve cases in an expeditious manner for her clients.
Ms. Lim works in the Orange County office of Coleman, Chavez & Associates. There she joins a team of professionals covering workers’ compensation matters of all kinds throughout all of the Orange County WCAB District Offices. At client requests, Ms. Lim occasionally covers matters in the Los Angeles and Inland Empire District Offices.
Ms. Lim is also fluent Korean, both written and oral. She is computer certified by Westlaw in legal education and training using all of their investigative techniques. In her spare time Ms. Lim enjoys reading, cooking, and being physically active.
E-mail: jlim@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 245-2746
Cell: (949) 392-0505
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Chantell Gonzalez-Nieves was born in Orange, California. She graduated from University of California, Berkeley in 2005 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Chicano Studies with distinction in general scholarship. Ms. Gonzalez-Nieves received her Juris Doctorate in December 2009 from Trinity Law School and was admitted to the State Bar of California in June 2010. She is fluent in Spanish. While in law school, Ms. Gonzalez-Nieves interned with the San Bernardino District Attorney’s Office as a certified law clerk and successfully led a misdemeanor trial.
Ms. Gonzalez-Nieves began her legal career practicing bankruptcy law for 3 years for a national firm where she represented debtors rights. Ms. Gonzalez-Nieves is also admitted to the United States District Court, Central District of California.
Ms. Gonzalez-Nieves began working exclusively in workers’ compensation in 2013, representing insurance carriers, self-insured entities, third-party administrators, Professional Employer Organizations, and government entities in all aspects of litigation.
While away from the office, Ms. Gonzalez-Nieves enjoys spending time with her daughters and husband, trips to Disneyland, and watching basketball games.
E-mail: cgonzalez-nieves@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 245-2747
Cell: (714) 767-9629
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
|
Nathan Scott was born in Bellflower, California and raised in the Inland Empire. As a high school student, he took classes at a local community college to be more competitive on the school’s mock trial team. Those classes earned him enough extra credit that by the time he graduated from high school he was able to begin his college education at UCLA as a junior. After graduating from UCLA in two years, he entered graduate school at California State University at Long Beach where he earned a Master’s in Public Administration and completed a graduate certificate in Public Sector Employer-Employee Relations and Personnel Management. At age 21, he had already completed his first round of graduate education studies, finishing with a 4.0 grade point average.
In 2012, Mr. Scott graduated from law school at Chapman University in Orange, California where he completed his Juris Doctor with focused coursework through the Advocacy and Dispute Resolution Emphasis Program. While in law school, he was an active competitor on the law school’s mock trial, appellate moot court, and alternative dispute resolution teams. Mr. Scott was admitted to the California State Bar in 2012.
Mr. Scott was first introduced to workers’ compensation defense work while working as an in-house law clerk for a national insurance carrier during law school. He has focused his practice on the defense of employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators throughout southern California.
Mr. Scott has volunteered as a mediator at the Superior Courts in Orange and Riverside counties to mediate disputes involving small claims, collections, unlawful detainers, and requests for civil harassment restraining orders. When he is not working, he enjoys spending time with his family and traveling.
E-mail: nscott@cca-law.com
Phone: (949) 478-5297
Cell: (949) 478-5297
V-Card: Download V-Card |
|
|
-

|
Benhur Shervan was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. At the age of 16, he graduated high school from Marshall High School in Los Felix, California. He then attended the University of Southern California where he received bachelor’s degrees as a triple major in the fields of history, political science, and communications. At the age of 20, Mr. Shervan then began his legal studies at the University of West Los Angeles in Los Angeles, California. He received his Juris Doctorate degree in 1993, at the age of 23.
Mr. Shervan began practice as a workers’ compensation defense attorney in the late 1990s. His primary focus has always been the defense of employers, insurance carriers, and claims administrators for workers’ compensation related claims. He is a frequent lecturer for various educational associations throughout California. In total, he has been practicing workers’ compensation defense for the past 23 years.
When away from work, Mr. Shervan is also the owner, and CEO, of Chariot Entertainment, a motion picture and television production company. Mr. Shervan enjoys writing and producing feature length motion pictures, which are distributed throughout the world. He is a frequent attendee of the Cannes and Milan Film Festivals. He is an avid world traveler and enjoys gourmet cooking having attended several cooking schools in Rome Italy.
He is fluent in French, Italian, and conversational in Spanish.
E-mail: bshervan@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 279-8120
Cell: (323) 404-0009
V-Card: Download V-Card |
|
|
-

|
Kay Snyder was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. She earned her B.A. in the History of Public Policy at the University of California, Santa Barbara, graduating with highest honors (top 2.5%) in 2009. After taking a year off to travel to Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Japan, she went on to receive her Juris Doctorate in 2013 from Loyola Law School. She was admitted to the State Bar of California in 2013.
Her practice focuses on Workers’ Compensation defense, with experience handing both traditional employment injuries as well as professional athlete claims. She has extensive experience representing employers, self-insured entities, and insurance carriers and third-party administrators before the District Offices of the Workers Compensation Appeals Board in both Northern and Southern California. She has written several articles and blogs on issues surrounding the workers’ compensation legal system and is a skilled attorney who has extensive experience handling complex cases.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family going to the beach, skiing, traveling and attending concerts.
E-mail: ksnyder@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 356-6022
Cell: (714) 752-0477
V-Card: Download V-Card |
|
|
-

|
Toon was born in Thailand but was raised in Southern California. In 2006, he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts from the University of California, Irvine, and worked in marketing for several years after graduating. He eventually grew and developed his interest in the law. In 2013 he received his Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law in San Diego, CA. After law school and passing the bar, Toon moved to the central valley with his wife and daughter and began his legal career as an associate in a large statewide workers’ compensation defense firm. After gaining valuable skills and experience, Toon and his family found their way back to Southern California.
Toon has represented both applicants and defendants in his career and has litigated cases in venues throughout California. Toon now represents employers, carriers, third party administrators, and self-insured employers in all aspects of workers’ compensation defense.
In his spare time, Toon enjoys traveling, food, Netflix, and spending time with his wife and daughters.
E-mail: ttawanna@cca-law.com
Phone: (657) 245-2006
Cell: (818) 667-6620
V-Card: Download V-Card |
|
|
-

|
Fernando Lujan is an experienced workers' compensation hearing representative in the Los Angeles area. With over 10 years of experience, he has gained a deep understanding of the complexities of workers' compensation.
Fernando's ability to speak both English and Spanish fluently makes him an excellent communicator. He is also passionate about his work and is dedicated to providing the best possible representation.
In his spare time, Fernando enjoys traveling, staying active, and engaging in outdoor activities, including golfing.
E-mail: flujan@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 669-2171
Cell: (562) 392-2186
V-Card: Download V-Card |
San Diego Offices - Servicing the San Diego WCAB District Office
-
 |
Richard Chavez was born in Laguna Beach, California. He graduated from California State University at Sonoma in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in Criminal Justice. Mr. Chavez received his Juris Doctor Degree from the University of Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in 1999. While at McGeorge, he was admitted to the Roger J. Traynor Honor Society on May 15, 1998. Mr. Chavez was admitted to the California State Bar in 1999.
Mr. Chavez's practice areas include Workers' Compensation, Workers' Compensation Subrogation, Appellate, and Employment Counseling & Litigation. He previously worked for Cuneo, Black, Ward & Missler as a Partner and Associate. He is now a founding partner of Coleman Chavez & Associates LLP. Mr. Chavez has extensive experience representing employers in a full range of employment related issues, including discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, civil rights and unfair competition proceedings. Additionally, Mr. Chavez has represented public entities on civil rights claims, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Title IX. He also has substantial experience in complex tort claims involving product liability and premise issues, industrial workplace injuries, and construction site accidents.
Currently, Mr. Chavez is a member of the Sacramento Bar Association, San Francisco Bar Association, The Hispanic National Bar Association, La Raza Lawyers of California, La Raza Lawyers of Sacramento, California State Bar Workers' Compensation Section, Sacramento County Bar Workers' Compensation Section, and the Valley Industrial Claims Association. In addition, Mr. Chavez occasionally speaks to businesses regarding employment related issues.
When away from work, Mr. Chavez enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 children, as well as golfing, tennis, baseball, and traveling.
E-mail: rchavez@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2312
Cell: (916) 607-3300
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Nina R. Francisco was born and raised in San Diego, California. She attended the University of San Diego where she was on the Dean’s List, was a member of the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a minor in Economics in 1997. Ms. Francisco went on to Southwestern University School of Law in Los Angeles where she served on the board of the Asian Pacific American Law Students Association and Moot Court, while maintaining academic excellence. Coming from a military family, Ms. Francisco also worked as a paralegal specialist for the JAG Corp in San Diego and a certified law clerk in the juvenile division for the District Attorney’s Office while attending law school. Ms. Francisco earned her Juris Doctorate in 2001 and admitted to the California State Bar the same year. She is admitted to practice before the United States District Court for the Southern District of California.
Ms. Francisco moved back to San Diego after law school and began her career in workers’ compensation defense. She comes with nearly 20 years of defending insurance carriers, third-party administrators, self-insured employers and private and public entities in all aspects of a workers’ compensation claim from inception of a claim to litigation, settlement and/or dismissal. Ms. Francisco directs and develops the discovery phase and defense strategy with the carrier and employer to provide the best defense in every claim. This includes conducting the deposition, deposition strategy, timing of settlement, employer level investigations, witness trial preparation, potential fraud issues, etc. She also has years of experience in effectively cross-examining Qualified Medical Examiners. Ms. Francisco also meets with employers and claims examiners regularly to go over day to day procedures of documenting a personnel file and other documentation that is crucial when defending a workers’ compensation claim.
When away from work, Ms. Francisco enjoys reading, watching her kids at softball and basketball games, finding new trails to walk and playing tourist in San Diego with her family.
E-mail: nfrancisco@cca-law.com
Phone: (858)623-4256
Cell: (619) 417-8048
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-
 |
Sydney R. Zapiec was born in Montreal, Canada. She graduated from Emory University in 2000 with a Bachelor of Arts in English. While attending Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles, Ms. Zapiec served as the Lead Articles Editor for the Southwestern Journal of Law and Trade in the Americas. She received her Juris Doctor agree in 2007 and was admitted to the California State Bar in 2008.
Ms. Zapiec has worked almost exclusively in the area of workers’ compensation defense in Southern California during her legal career, handling defense of claims for insurance carriers and third-party administrators from inception to closure. Ms. Zapiec has extensive experience conducting depositions of applicants and doctors, and handling hearings and trials, including liens, contribution, and reimbursement issues.
Ms. Zapiec is based out of the Coleman, Chavez and Associates, LLP’s San Diego office, primarily handling cases in Southern California. Through her client relationships however, she occasionally handles cases at District Offices in the north.
Ms. Zapiec enjoys working closely with claims examiners to bring matters to a cost-effective and efficient resolution. She also has experience in handling defense of CIGA claims in addition to asbestos and sports-related continuous trauma cases.
Away from work, she enjoys yoga, tennis, cooking and hanging out with her two mini-goldendoodles.
E-mail: szapiec@cca-law.com
Phone: (858) 623-4248
Cell: (714) 925-5856
V-Card: Download V-Card |
-

|
Fernando Lujan is an experienced workers' compensation hearing representative in the Los Angeles area. With over 10 years of experience, he has gained a deep understanding of the complexities of workers' compensation.
Fernando's ability to speak both English and Spanish fluently makes him an excellent communicator. He is also passionate about his work and is dedicated to providing the best possible representation.
In his spare time, Fernando enjoys traveling, staying active, and engaging in outdoor activities, including golfing.
E-mail: flujan@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 669-2171
Cell: (562) 392-2186
V-Card: Download V-Card |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|