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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Brian Amonn received his Bachelor of Arts degree in history from University of California at Berkeley in 2002. He obtained his Juris Doctor from Golden Gate University School of Law and was admitted to the State Bar of California in 2009.

Mr. Amonn is a member of the State Bar of California and of the United States District Court, Northern District of California.

After graduating from UC Berkeley, Mr. Amonn worked in the insurance industry for a large California automobile and homeowner insurer where he adjusted high value and litigated claims. He then pursued his legal education at Golden Gate University School of Law where he graduated with honors and obtained his Juris Doctor.

Prior to joining Coleman Chavez & Associates, Mr. Amonn gained extensive civil litigation experience in the Bay Area and Central Valley, including personal injury, qui-tam insurance fraud, construction defects, employment law, and extensive workers’ compensation experience. In his current position with our firm, his practice includes workers’ compensation litigation, Labor Code Section 132a claims, serious and willful claims, and civil subrogation.

Mr. Amonn spends his free time with his amazing daughter and family exploring the beautiful nature that California has to offer, working on his golf game, at the gym or track, and rooting for the California Golden Bears & San Diego Padres. Go Bears & Fiat Lux!

E-mail: bamonn@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2343
Cell: (925) 639-97132
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Amanda Raffanti Dunbar received her B.A. in Liberal Arts from The Union Institute. Ms. Raffanti Dunbar then went on to receive her Juris Doctorate in May of 2000 from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law. During law school, she was a legal intern for the Nevada County District Attorney Family Support Division and a Legislative
Assistant for the Congress of California Seniors.

Ms. Raffanti Dunbar is a Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law. This certification was bestowed in 2006 by the Board of Legal Specialization of the State Bar of California at the recommendation of both fellow lawyers and local Workers’ Compensation Judges.

Prior to joining Coleman Chavez & Associates in January of 2013, Ms. Raffanti Dunbar practiced mostly in the areas of Workers' Compensation defense, operating her own law office for many of those years in Sacramento. Ms. Raffanti Dunbar is admitted to practice before all California state courts and administrative agencies.

Ms. Raffanti Dunbar’s interests away from work include active involvement in her daughter’s education and social organizations as well as her husband’s military family groups. She also enjoys many outdoor activities with her family.

E-mail: adunbar@cca-law.com
Phone: (925) 627-3709
Cell: (916) 952-8070
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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
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Eva Baltazar was born and raised in Northern California. She attended California State University of Sacramento where she received her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with emphasis in law and courts. Ms. Baltazar went on to receive her Juris Doctorate from Lincoln Law School of Sacramento.

While in law school, she interned at a local District Attorney’s Office, where she had the opportunity to work under a data driven prosecution model against high-level offenders.

Prior to joining Coleman, Chavez, & Associates, she worked as law clerk at an applicant attorneys’ firm in Workers’ Compensation. This gives her a unique perspective of handling workers’ compensation cases on both sides.

Outside of work, Ms. Baltazar spends most of her time with her family. She enjoys traveling and hiking.

E-mail: ebaltazar@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2335
Cell: (209) (916) 827-1510
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Musa Faidi was born and raised in Stockton, CA. He graduated from the University of California, Berkeley in 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies, with an emphasis on Conflict-Resolution in the Middle East. While at UC Berkeley, he was placed on the Dean’s List, studied Advanced Arabic Language and Literature in Palestine, and completed his 4 year degree in 2 years. Musa was the recipient for the Afaf Kanafani Scholarship, which distinguished the best paper written by a UC Berkeley student regarding the role of women in the Arab World. As an undergraduate, Musa interned for California Rural Legal Assistance, where he extrapolated correlations between race and agreements for diversion services in California public schools. Musa was also very involved in the Arab Student Union, where he recruited students to come together in a unifying space that embraced a sense of collective empowerment.

During his gap year between college and law school, Musa collaborated with Princeton University
professors to measure the impact of California’s Prop. 47 on underrepresented communities. He liaised between the Offices of the District Attorney and Public Defender in Stockton, CA to create a
comprehensive database of San Joaquin County residents who received felony reductions.

In Fall 2019, Musa began his legal career at UC Hastings Law. By the end of his first year, Musa was
placed within the top 7% of his class, and became a member of the UC Hastings Honor Society. He
received the CALI and Witkin Awards for receiving the highest grades in Legal Research and Writing,
Moot Court, and Constitutional Law. At UC Hastings, Musa was an active member in the Middle Eastern Law Society and Iranian Law Students Organization. In May 2020, Musa served as a Judicial Extern for Chief Judge Phyllis Hamilton in the Northern District of California. In Fall 2020, Musa transferred to UC Berkeley Law. He was a Summer Associate at Reed Smith, LLP in San Francisco, and interned with the Government Team at the San Francisco City Attorney. After graduation, Musa worked at the Office of Legislative Counsel in Sacramento, where he drafted and analyzed legislation to be introduced in the California Legislature.

Outside of work, Musa enjoys hiking ocean trails, exploring local coffee shops, running, swimming, and spending time with friends and family. He enjoys traveling, reading books on the beach, and trying out new restaurants. Musa is of Palestinian descent and speaks Arabic.

E-mail: mfaidi@cca-law.com
Phone: (916) 787-2304
Cell: (209) 406-1492
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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
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Nashellie Gonzalez was born and raised in the Central Valley of California. Ms. Gonzalez is our Northern California Hearing Representative who received her Paralegal Certificate from Fresno City College in 2020. In her prior tenures, she has worked for many other prestigious law firms in the Valley for over 10 years that allowed her to gain a deep understanding of workers’ compensation.

She speak Spanish fluently making her sought after for In Pro Per cases.

When away from work, Ms. Gonzalez enjoys spending time with family, three dogs, and attending sporting events specifically the San Francisco 49ners. She also works with numerous non-profits in the Central Valley helping advocate for the lives of stary and forgotten dogs.

E-mail: Ngonzalez@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 490-1588
Cell: (559) 492-1588
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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
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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
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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
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A California native, Lauren Coleman has lived and studied throughout the state. She was born in Sacramento, CA. She graduated from the University of California, San Diego in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and double minors in Japanese Studies and Law and Society.

She received her juris doctor degree from University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly University of California, Hastings College of the Law) in 2015. While attending UC Law SF, she served as an Editor for the Constitutional Law Quarterly. She also served as a member of the Moot Court Board and competed in three national competitions where she received two awards for excellence in brief writing. Ms. Coleman was admitted to California State Bar in 2016.

Ms. Coleman’s workers' compensation career has covered virtually all potential issues, from defending high-value, complex cases involving multiple injuries, employee-independent contractor classification disputes, and contribution, to COVID-19 claims. Her earlier focus on the arenas of employment and disability law makes her particularly well prepared to identify and tackle most potential employer difficulties before they become problematic. She believes regular communications with the client promotes the most efficient resolution possible, whether it be via settlement, mediation or trial. In addition to handling cases, she has also published multiple blog articles and conducted presentations on a variety of topics including contribution and settlement strategies.

When not working, Lauren can be found in a yoga class, hiking on one of the many trails throughout the Bay Area, or writing a fantasy novel.

E-mail: lcoleman@cca-law.com
Phone: (925) 627-3715
Cell: (510) 365-1174
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Christina Hart was born in Alaska. Her family moved to the San Francisco Bay Area shortly after, and she he has since made California her home. Ms. Hart graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2000 with a Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society and minor in the History of Art and Architecture. Ms. Hart received her Juris Doctor degree from The University of San Francisco. She was admitted to the California State Bar in 2004 and has been admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court and all California Courts.

Ms. Hart initially practiced toxic tort and asbestos litigation with a San Francisco Bay Area law firm, traveling the country for depositions, discovery, law and motion practice and second chairing trials in San Francisco Superior Court and Federal Courts. In 2007, she left the firm to join another bay area firm as an associate in their workers compensation defense practice. In 2010, Ms. Hart returned to civil litigation as a law and motion writer again working on asbestos cases in the San Francisco Superior Court and Federal Courts in Pennsylvania and Northern California. From 2014 to 2019, Ms. Hart worked as a sole practitioner in civil litigation, asbestos litigation, workers compensation and insurance subrogation handling cases from inception through mediation and trial. She returned to employment and workers compensation defense practice representing employers, insurers and third-party administrators in 2019 and has continued practicing workers compensation defense since. She has authored several articles and conducted presentations on emerging legal issues in workers compensation practice.

In her free time, Ms. Hart enjoys spending time with her three daughters, attending their cheerleading and competitive dance competitions and events. She serves as the Cheer Director on the Board of the local youth football and cheer program where her youngest daughter continues to cheer. She enjoys outdoor activities, loves the beach, and attending concerts and professional sporting events.

E-mail: chart@cca-law.com
Phone: (925) 627-3712
Cell: (628) 400-3750
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Tejal Naik was born in Zimbabwe and moved to San Mateo, California in 2004. In 2009, Ms. Naik received her Bachelor’s of Arts in Criminal Justice with a minor in History from San Francisco State University. She then spent time in the workforce, working in hospitality, before deciding to attend Golden Gate Law School, where she graduated in 2014 with a specialization in Labor/Employment Law. In 2013, Ms. Naik clerked for the Honorable Maria Elena James and the Honorable Nandor J. Vadas at the United States District Court, Northern California.

Ms. Naik is a member of the State Bar of California.

When away from work Ms. Naik enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and playing with her 3 miniature schnauzers.

E-mail: tnaik@cca-law.com
Phone: (925) 395-2760
Cell: (650) 576-8366
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Mr. Kirk graduated from California State University Dominguez Hills in 1998. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature receiving Dean’s Honor List recognition throughout his schooling. Following college Mr. Kirk began his first career as an English teacher in high schools in California as well as abroad in China. While working as a teacher Mr. Kirk attended law school at Empire Law School in Santa Rosa receiving his Juris Doctorate degree in 2007. Mr. Kirk graduated law school Cum Laude receiving Witkin Honors Award for Civil Procedure, a Community Service Award, and provided services for the Disability Law Clinic.

Mr. Kirk was admitted to the California Bar in December of 2007 and specialized in Workers’ Compensation since that time.

Mr. Kirk joined the firm of Coleman, Chavez & Associates in February of 2011. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Kirk represented unions and their injured workers in Workers’ Compensation matters throughout Northern California.

When outside of work Mr. Kirk enjoys reading and mountain biking but most of all treasures his time with his large family.

E-mail: akirk@cca-law.com
Phone: (925) 627-3703
Cell: (916) 541-6909
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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
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Nasrin Saberi Shakib was born in Iran and emigrated with her parents to New York City at age three. She left New York for Arcadia, CA while in high school. She received her Bachelors in English and Political Science from UC Berkeley, then her J.D. from Loyola Law School Los Angeles. At Loyola, she was Technical Editor of the Public Interest Law Journal, competed on the International Law Moot Court team, spent a semester interning with a large Los Angeles insurance defense firm, and another semester as a Student Advocate in an Education Law Clinic.

Nasrin began practicing in Workers Compensation immediately after law school, initially as an Applicant’s Attorney. She then practiced in defense side Employment and Medical Malpractice law where she represented businesses, insurers, professionals, and public entities in all aspects of litigation.

Following a career hiatus to care for her three children, Nasrin committed her legal practice to Workers Compensation defense. Nasrin administers dependable and strategic legal consultation, negotiation, and case resolution for applicants, and employers, insurers, and third party administrators.

Outside of work, Nasrin enjoys fitness and Pilates, reading, traveling, cooking, and enjoying time with her husband and three children.

E-mail: nsaberi@cca-law.com
Phone: (925) 430-6448
Cell: (510) 717-7950
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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
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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
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Ilse Mejia was born and raised in Southern California. She is a graduate of the University of California, Irvine, where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts degrees in Sociology and Political Science in 2014. She then went on to obtain her Juris Doctor degree from Chapman University Fowler School of Law in 2019.

Ilse Mejia is an Associate Attorney with a primary focus on California Workers’ Compensation defense. She is fluent in Spanish and has experience handling a variety of worker’s compensation cases.

Outside of work, Ms. Mejia enjoys cooking, hiking, and spending time with her dogs.

E-mail: imejia@cca-law.com
Phone: (925) 627-3714
Cell: (949) 414-6802
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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
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Nashellie Gonzalez was born and raised in the Central Valley of California. Ms. Gonzalez is our Northern California Hearing Representative who received her Paralegal Certificate from Fresno City College in 2020. In her prior tenures, she has worked for many other prestigious law firms in the Valley for over 10 years that allowed her to gain a deep understanding of workers’ compensation.

She speak Spanish fluently making her sought after for In Pro Per cases.

When away from work, Ms. Gonzalez enjoys spending time with family, three dogs, and attending sporting events specifically the San Francisco 49ners. She also works with numerous non-profits in the Central Valley helping advocate for the lives of stary and forgotten dogs.

E-mail: Ngonzalez@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 490-1588
Cell: (559) 492-1588
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Bryan Doss was born in Montrose, Colorado, and is the fifth generation of his family to live in the Central Valley of California. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of California at Davis and his Juris Doctor degree from the San Joaquin College of Law. He was admitted to the California State Bar in 2009.

Bryan’s practice encompasses all aspects of Workers' Compensation defense as he represents insurance carriers, self-insured employers, and members of captive groups. Bryan has also defended cases filed against government and public agencies. Aggressive against claims suspected of fraud, Bryan’s efforts and cooperation with law enforcement have resulted in several convictions and a restitution order for more than $90,000 in one instance. Bryan has experience in litigating subrogation claims and has appeared for trial at most venues throughout the State.

When away from work, Bryan enjoys spending time with his wife, two daughters, four dogs, five cats, and a pony on their ranch outside of Clovis.

E-mail: bdoss@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 206-8485
Cell: (559) 269-9324
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Treanna Garza was born in Fresno, California. She graduated from University of California, Santa Barbara in 2005 with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. Ms. Garza received her Juris Doctor Degree from San Joaquin College of Law in 2013 and was admitted to the California State Bar the same year.

Ms. Garza’s practice areas include Workers’ Compensation, defending employers against allegations of serious and willful misconduct and Labor Code 132a allegations.  Her background in criminal law has helped identify fraudulent workers’ compensation claimants and work towards building cases for criminal prosecution. She enjoys defending against cases with suspected fraud and intoxication. Ms. Garza has practiced Workers’ Compensation defense exclusively since 2015.  She serves Fresno, Bakersfield, San Luis Obispo, Salinas and Stockton. 

Currently, Ms. Garza is a member of the State Bar of California.

When away from work, Ms. Garza enjoys spending time with her husband and two dogs, often outdoors hiking or fishing. 

E-mail: tgarza@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 421-2587
Cell: (559) 248-1522
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Brock Roverud was born and raised in Woodland Hills, CA. Mr. Roverud graduated from the University of California at Santa Barbara in 2009, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society with a minor in Sports Management. There, Mr. Roverud was also a member of the Division I Men’s Swimming Team, earning Team Captain recognition his Senior year.

In 2014, Mr. Roverud obtained his Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law in San Diego, CA and was admitted to the California Bar shortly thereafter.

Mr. Roverud has exclusively practiced workers compensation defense since 2015. He brings unique emergency medicine knowledge, having served as a Los Angeles County Ocean Lifeguard for 12 years. He is a frequent lecturer in the Fresno area as a member of the Board of Directors for the Fresno Industrial Claims Association. He served as president from 2020-2022.

In his spare time, Mr. Roverud enjoys grilling and spending time outside with his wife, two children, and two dogs.

E-mail: broverud@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 421-7111
Cell: (818) 324-4227
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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: eroverud@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 490-1510
Cell: (559) 230-9660
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Bogdan Ulitsky was born in Odessa, Ukraine. He graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Arts in History in 2009. Mr. Ulitsky received his Juris Doctor Degree from the University of La Verne, College of Law in 2013. Mr. Ulitsky was admitted to the California State Bar in 2014.

Mr. Ulitsky’s practice areas include workers’ compensation defense, defense of professional athlete workers’ compensation claims, defense of homeowners’ workers’ compensation claims, and defense of workers’ compensation claims against public entities.

In his free time, Mr. Ulitsky enjoys spending time with his wife, two sons, and pets, as well as watching college football and hockey. Mr. Ulitsky enjoys reading about history and anything aviation related.

E-mail: bulitsky@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 570-1964
Cell: (909) 667-9338
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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
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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
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Nashellie Gonzalez was born and raised in the Central Valley of California. Ms. Gonzalez is our Northern California Hearing Representative who received her Paralegal Certificate from Fresno City College in 2020. In her prior tenures, she has worked for many other prestigious law firms in the Valley for over 10 years that allowed her to gain a deep understanding of workers’ compensation.

She speak Spanish fluently making her sought after for In Pro Per cases.

When away from work, Ms. Gonzalez enjoys spending time with family, three dogs, and attending sporting events specifically the San Francisco 49ners. She also works with numerous non-profits in the Central Valley helping advocate for the lives of stary and forgotten dogs.

E-mail: Ngonzalez@cca-law.com
Phone: (559) 490-1588
Cell: (559) 492-1588
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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
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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
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Ani Boghozian was born and raised in Los Angeles. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles. She then received her Juris Doctor degree from Loyola Law School.

She represents employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators in all aspects of workers' compensation litigation. Ms. Boghozian has extensive prior civil litigation experience on both the plaintiffs' and defense side in medical malpractice. Her knowledge of complex medical issues, familiarity in dealing with medical experts, and perspective in handling both sides of litigation allows her to bring an in-depth understanding of the most effective strategies for litigation.

In her free time, Ms. Boghozian enjoys cooking, baking, traveling, working out, wine tasting, and spending time with family. She is fluent in Armenian.

E-mail: aboghozian@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 868-3020
Cell: (424) 346-0798
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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
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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
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Heather Garcia grew up in Columbia, Maryland and has lived all across the great State of California. Ms. Garcia obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara. During her undergraduate studies, she served as a congressional intern at the office of Congressman Jerry McNerney and studied abroad at the National University of Singapore. She graduated in 2008 with a bachelor's degree in law and society.

Ms. Garcia spent a year assisting in-house legal counsel at a national staffing agency. She then obtained her Juris Doctor Degree from the University of California College of Law, San Francisco (formerly, UC Hastings) where she was an active member of the Mock Trial Team. Ms. Garcia was admitted to the California State Bar in 2012.

After briefly practicing Employment Law and Personal Injury, Ms. Garcia's primary area of practice has been Workers' Compensation Defense. She works with insurance companies and self-insured employers to reach prompt resolutions. She has substantial experience resolving death and dependency claims. Ms. Garcia has also helped immigrant youth obtain guardianship and Special Immigrant Juvenile Status on a Pro Bono basis.

Outside of work, Ms. Garcia can be found supporting the UCLA basketball teams at Pauley Pavilion.

E-mail: hgarcia@cca-law.com
Phone: (818) 751-5742
Cell: (925) 785-2557
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Melissa Price Matovich was born in Paradise, California but grew up on the island of Okinawa, attending kindergarten through graduation from high school in Japan. During the course of her childhood, she travelled extensively through out Southeast & East Asia.

She attended California State University, Long Beach and graduated in 1987 with a degree in English Literature. After college she attended Southwestern University School of Law in Los Angeles and received her Juris Doctorate degree in 1990.

While in law school, Ms. Matovich actively competed in the Moot Cowt Honors Program, attending the William B. Spong Moot Court Invitational Tournament held at William & Mary Law School in Virginia. She also received the prestigious American Jurisprudence Award in Appellate Advocacy.

Admitted to the California State Bar in 1990, Ms. Matovich has exclusively practiced Workers' Compensation defense and has been a California State Bar Certified Workers' Compensation Specialist since 2003. She's a past President of the South Bay Industrial Claims (SBICA) and has been a featured speaker on legal panels.

For more than 33 years, Ms. Matovich has represented insurance entities, third party administrators and a vast range of self-insured entities, including municipalities and school districts. Well versed in discovery tactics & litigation, she has deposed and cross-examined countless injured workers, physicians, and witnesses during her career. She has successfully resolved numerous serious litigated injury cases including high value claims & catastrophic injuries involving brain injury and paraplegia.

In her free time, Ms. Matovich enjoys travelling and writing short stories. Her hobbies include water sports & scuba diving. She is an active supporter of the Marine Mammal Rescue Society and Monterey Bay Aquarium.

E-mail: mmatovich@cca-law.com
Phone: (949) 749-2062
Cell: (310) 721-4313
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Cindy G. Carrera was born in West Los Angeles and accomplished her childhood schooling in Downey, CA. She graduated from The University of California, Irvine in 2005 obtaining her bachelor’s degree in political science with Cum Laude honors.

She obtained a Certificate in Litigation from the University of Los Angeles in 2008 and went on to obtain her Juris Doctor degree from Western State University School of Law in 2009. During law school she interned with the Orange County Public Defender’s Office - Children’s Rights division.

Ms. Carrera began practicing Workers’ Compensation in 2015 by representing injured workers. She then moved to a Workers’ Compensation defense firm in 2021 choosing to focus her legal career on defense representation.

In her free time, Cindy enjoys trying out the newest breakfast spot, watching legal dramas and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, and spending time with her husband and daughter.

E-mail: ccarrera@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 810-3516
Cell: (424) 488-7148
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Theresa Galvez 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. Galvez 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. Galvez 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. Galvez 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: tgalvez@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 310-8036
Cell: (714) 876-7426
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Nicol Roberta Harper was born in Torrance, California. Her family moved to Garden Grove, California in 1981. Growing up she played multiple sports including field hockey, soccer, and softball. She now lives in Beaumont, California.

In 2005, Ms. Harper graduated cum laude from Whittier College with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and minor in Religious Studies. She likes to joke that she studied everything one is not supposed to discuss at the dinner table. Ms. Harper was also a member of Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society and Phi Sigma Tau, the National Philosophy Honor Society. Ms. Harper attended Western State University College of Law and was admitted to the California State Bar in 2012.

Ms. Harper began her legal career working in immigration law; however, she quickly moved into workers’ compensation. After representing applicants for a short period of time, Ms. Harper was referred to a nation-wide defense firm. She has exclusively represented defendants in workers’ compensation claims since 2013. Ms. Harper has experience representing employers, carriers, and third-party administrators with cases-in-chief, liens, and peripherally in subrogation claims. She joined the Coleman Chavez & Associates team in September 2023.

Ms. Harper is most familiar with the Pomona, Riverside, and San Bernardino Workers’ Compensation District Offices and applicant attorney firms, but she also handles cases in Orange County, Los Angeles County, and San Diego County.

When not working, Ms. Harper enjoys spending time with her husband, stepson, and their three dogs. She also likes to read and hangout in her garden. Her hobbies include wood carving and burning, knitting, and putting projects on her husband’s Honey-Do list. During football season she can be found armchair quarterbacking for the Green Bay Packers.

E-mail: nharper@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 335-5109
Cell: (562) 746-2622
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David grew up in Los Angeles and spent significant portions of his formative years studying or working in Northern and Southern California. He received his law degree from the University of California Hastings College of the Law and has been a practicing attorney for over 23 years.

Since 2008, David has represented both applicants and defendants in all aspects of workers’ compensation law, ranging from the mundane to the very complex. As an example of his philosophy that all disputes, no matter how great or small, deserve the same attention, he once defended a claim by a surgical center asserting a partially unpaid balance. On its face, the controversy appeared trivial and it was a notable accomplishment just to get the matter set for Trial and submitted for a decision. When the surgical center prevailed, it was not unexpected.

However, David recognized that the underlying legal issue was significant and, with the support of his client, he petitioned for reconsideration, obtaining a favorable Panel Decision which was cited by the Commission on Health and Safety and Workers' Compensation as “so rare and so remarkable that copies were quickly circulated by e-mail and it made the headlines in the trade press (WorkCompCentral.com 11/12/2010, This Week’s Top Headlines).” CHSWC (2011) Liens Report at p.35.

When away from work, David enjoys spending time with his family, walking his dogs and working on various shop projects in his garage.

E-mail: dhwang@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 669-2477
Cell: (213) 280-5901
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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: (213) 261-3981
Cell: (310) 714-8292
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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
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Jared Tsai was born in Jersey City, New Jersey. At age four, the family of this first-generation Taiwanese American moved to Southern California After graduating UC Berkeley in 1995 with a degree in political science, Tsai (pronounced “sigh) attend Santa Clara University Law School. Upon completion of law school in the top third of his class, this newly minted attorney returned to Southern California to start his practice of law.

After a brief stint with a well-known West Los Angeles criminal defense attorney, he started his career as a California Workers’ Compensation defense attorney. His representation of clients includes insurance carriers, self-insured employers, Fortune 500 insureds and public entities. His litigation philosophy is to “advocate on behalf of the client.” If the client wants to settle a case at a premium to expedite resolution, he will aggressively push for a Compromise and Release. On the other hand, a client may be willing incur significant litigation costs to try an issue that is not cost effective. If this is the case, Tsai will fight the case for the client at both Trial and appellate level.

He brings his over twenty years of workers’ compensation defense experience to clients in the Southern California area. He is very familiar with all aspects of claim handling, including moving cases to trial and navigating the appellate process. Customer service is placed on the highest priority.

When not working, Jared enjoys collecting vintage comic books and playing video games.

E-mail: jtsai@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 212-6004
Cell: (909) 436-6656
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Nicol Roberta Harper was born in Torrance, California. Her family moved to Garden Grove, California in 1981. Growing up she played multiple sports including field hockey, soccer, and softball. She now lives in Beaumont, California.

In 2005, Ms. Harper graduated cum laude from Whittier College with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and minor in Religious Studies. She likes to joke that she studied everything one is not supposed to discuss at the dinner table. Ms. Harper was also a member of Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society and Phi Sigma Tau, the National Philosophy Honor Society. Ms. Harper attended Western State University College of Law and was admitted to the California State Bar in 2012.

Ms. Harper began her legal career working in immigration law; however, she quickly moved into workers’ compensation. After representing applicants for a short period of time, Ms. Harper was referred to a nation-wide defense firm. She has exclusively represented defendants in workers’ compensation claims since 2013. Ms. Harper has experience representing employers, carriers, and third-party administrators with cases-in-chief, liens, and peripherally in subrogation claims. She joined the Coleman Chavez & Associates team in September 2023.

Ms. Harper is most familiar with the Pomona, Riverside, and San Bernardino Workers’ Compensation District Offices and applicant attorney firms, but she also handles cases in Orange County, Los Angeles County, and San Diego County.

When not working, Ms. Harper enjoys spending time with her husband, stepson, and their three dogs. She also likes to read and hangout in her garden. Her hobbies include wood carving and burning, knitting, and putting projects on her husband’s Honey-Do list. During football season she can be found armchair quarterbacking for the Green Bay Packers.

E-mail: nharper@cca-law.com
Phone: (213) 335-5109
Cell: (562) 746-2622
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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
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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
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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
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