Sacramento

Carlos A Llarena, Jr

(+1) 916 852 0501

Carlos @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Mr. Llarena is the firm’s co-founding principal and has been practicing law since 2002 and workers’ compensation defense since 2004. He maintains a full case load specializing in the litigation of workers’ compensation defense representing insurance carriers, third party administrators and self-insured employers with legal representation throughout the state of California while co-managing the law firm in Sacramento, California.

Mr. Llarena represents employers and insurance carriers in the defense of workers’ compensation claims, claimed violations of L.C. section 132(a), and Serious and Willful Misconduct claims and keeping the client satisfied is top priority.

Mr. Llarena graduated from California State University Sacramento with a degree in biology, magna cum laude. During his undergraduate years, Mr. Llarena served as an adjunct professor for inorganic chemistry and performed medical research with the University of Texas, Houston Medical School. He worked as an operating room technician for nine years and as a laboratory technician for three years. He gained invaluable medical experience and applies his medical background litigating workers’ compensation cases. Mr. Llarena obtained his Juris Doctor from McGeorge SOL University of the Pacific, California.

Mr. Llarena served seven years with the United States Army and the California Army National Guard. He is a native Spanish speaker.

Education: J.D., McGeorge SOL University of the Pacific, California; 2002 | B.A., California State University, Sacramento; 1998

Admissions: California State Courts | U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California

Bay Area

Daniel P. Murdock

(+1) 510 285 9255

Daniel @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Daniel Murdock is the firm’s co-founding principal, and has been practicing workers’ compensation law since 2004. He maintains a full case load, specializing in the litigation of workers’ compensation defense and represents insurance carriers, third party administrators and self-insured employers with legal representation throughout the State of California. Mr. Murdock provides training seminars with clients about changes in the law, administrative rulings, case updates, effective handling of claims at the WCAB, and all topics which effect and involve litigation.

Prior to the formation of the Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, Mr. Murdock practiced medical malpractice law in Sacramento for one year and then joined a Law Firm specializing in workers’ compensation defense. Mr. Murdock obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of California, San Diego and was invited to join the Golden Key Honor Society for academic excellence. He began his law career as a paralegal and shortly thereafter earned his Juris Doctor from McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific, California.

Mr. Murdock was a member of the United States Army Reserve from 1991 to 2005 assigned to the 75th Legal Support Organization (LSO). He was awarded two Army Achievement Medals with Operation Enduring Freedom serving the 75th LSO.

Education: J.D., McGeorge SOL University of the Pacific, California; 2002 | B.A., University of California, San Diego; 1997

Admissions: California State Courts

Professional Association and Memberships: State Bar of California | Member of the National Organization of Veterans’ Advocates (NOVA) | Accredited U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Attorney

Los Angeles

Dominic A. Lopez

(+1) 626 844 6616

Dominic @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Mr. Lopez, the firm’s general managing partner, has been practicing workers’ compensation law exclusively since 2007. He is a Certified Workers’ Compensation Specialist who represents insurance carriers, third-party administrators and self-insured employers in the defense of workers’ compensation matters, alleged Labor Code Section 132(a) violations as well as Serious & Willful Misconduct claims.

Mr. Lopez provides strong legal representation, aggressive case resolution, and successful litigation with a focus on client driven results. Prior to joining the Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, Mr. Lopez was a Senior Attorney at a state-wide workers’ compensation defense firm. There he earned his reputation for quick, decisive and tactical case handling. The settlement of claims became a trademark of his practice and resulted in a large number of file closures in a short period of time. He has been innovative in setting up large informal settlement conferences and has taken the lead on multiple file closure projects.

As General Managing Partner for the Firm, Mr. Lopez handles client relations, manages attorneys and administrative staff, as well as oversees finances and day to day executive activities. He is a direct communicator whose focus on action driven results, and commitment to finding the most talented workers’ compensation personnel in the industry, has been an integral contributor to the firm’s tremendous growth. Under Mr. Lopez’s leadership the firm continues to expand throughout the State of California.

Mr. Lopez obtained his double major undergraduate degrees in History and Latin American studies at the University of California, Los Angeles and his Juris Doctor from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law.

Education: J.D., University California Hastings College of the Law, San Francisco; 2007 | B.A., University of California, Los Angeles; 2001

Admissions: United States Supreme Court | California State Courts | U.S. District Court, Central District of California | U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims

Professional Association and Memberships: State Bar of California | Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law | Mexican American Bar Association – Los Angeles | Los Angeles County Bar Association | Member of the National Organization of Veterans’ Advocates (NOVA) | Accredited U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Attorney

Orange County

Gina Azizad

(+1) 657 888 5700

GinaA @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: After a successful career as an in-house counsel and with other practices, Gina Azizad joined LMLA as a managing attorney and in recognition of her talents, she has become a Manging Partner with the firm, based in the Orange County office. Mrs. Azizad is a Certified Workers’ Compensation Specialist by the State Bar of California and represents insurance carriers, third-party administrators and self-insured employers in the defense of workers’ compensation matters, alleged Labor Code Section 132(a) violations as well as Serious & Willful Misconduct claims.

Mrs Azizad has also extensive experience advocating for large companies with a unionized workforce.

Ms. Azizad has a wealth of experience in workers’ compensation defense and litigation management and is one of the industry’s brightest attorneys.

Education: J.D., University of San Francisco, School of Law; 2011 | B.A., University of California, Los Angeles; 2008

Admissions: California State Courts

Sacramento

Dagmawi (Dag) Adane

(+1) 916 852 0501

Dag @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Dag Adane is the Managing Partner in our Sacramento Office. Mr. Adane joined Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, in 2012 with a legal background in criminal defense, civil litigation and workers’ compensation defense. Mr. Adane represents employers, insurance carriers, and third party administrators in all aspects of workers’ compensation claims, claimed violations of L.C. section 132(a) and Serious & Willful Misconduct claims. A distinguishing feature of Mr. Adane’s legal representation is the zealous and aggressive handling of cases for his clients to secure a favorable resolution or “take nothings.” Mr. Adane has extensive experience in litigating complex injuries and high value cases with the ability to keep his client’s goal and needs in the forefront.

Mr. Adane obtained his undergraduate degree from the California State University of Sacramento and Juris Doctor from Florida Coastal School of Law. During law school, Mr. Adane was ranked in the top four trial teams in the nation for an American Bar Association Mock Trial competition. He speaks and writes fluent Amharic. He is also proficient in written and oral Spanish.

Education: J.D., Florida Coastal School of Law, Jacksonville; 2011 | B.S., California State University, Sacramento; 2007

Admissions: California State Courts

Van Nuys

Alexander Mikaelian

(+1) 818 230 2557

Alex @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Alexander Mikaelian is the managing partner of the firm’s Van Nuys office. Mr. Mikaelian has represented public entities, major corporations and hospitals, private self-insured employers, and insurance carriers in all aspects of workers’ compensation litigation. He is a skilled negotiator and litigator.

Prior to his experience in workers’ compensation, he worked in the area of complex constructions defect, and civil litigation. Alex is fluent in Armenian and conversational in Russian.

Education: J.D., Loyola Law School; 2008 | B.A., University of California, Los Angeles; 2004

Admissions: California State Courts

Sacramento

Blake C. Bethel

(+1) 916 852 0501

Blake @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Blake is the managing partner of the Sacramento office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he practices Workers' Compensation defense.

Mr. Bethel started his career in civil litigation focused in Insurance Defense, and in that time, he represented both insurance carriers and private employers. He is experienced in working directly with both clients and administrators to pragmatically reach the most beneficial cost-effective case resolution for his clients. Blake also spent time in family law civil litigation dealing with sophisticated financial matters, including business appreciation apportionment, reimbursement, and contribution issues among other things. He draws on his varied valuable background experience to advocate exclusively on behalf of his Workers' Compensation clients.

He received his undergraduate degree from San Diego State University, Cum Laude. Mr. Bethel obtained his Juris Doctorate from Syracuse University College of Law, Cum Laude, in May 2014. While at Syracuse, Mr. Bethel was a member of the Justinian Honor Society, received Am. Jur. awards for Evidence and Constitutional Criminal Procedure, and served as a student attorney in the low income tax payer clinic. He was admitted to the State Bar of California in December 2014.

Personally, Blake is a die-hard sports fan, specifically professional and college basketball and football. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, exercising, and outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports.

Education: J.D., Syracuse University College of Law; 2014 | B.A., San Diego State University; 2011

Admissions: California State Courts

Bay Area

Bretton J. Morris

(+1) 510 285 9255

Bretton @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Bretton Morris is a partner in the Bay Area office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he practices Workers' Compensation defense. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Morris served as Associate Counsel for the Workers' Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau (WCIRB). Mr. Morris's work at the WCIRB included revising the Insurance Commissioner's workers' compensation regulations, responding to appeals and dispute letters from employers and insurers regarding the application of the regulations, and providing legal advice regarding workers' compensation policy forms, endorsements and policyholder notices. Mr. Morris's extensive litigation experience includes trials, cross-examinations, depositions, settlement conferences and the preparation of briefs and petitions.

Education: J.D., University of California, Hastings College of the Law, San Francisco 2006 | B.A., University of California, Davis; 2001

Admissions: California State Courts | U.S. District Court, Central District of California | U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California | U.S. District Court, Northern District of California

Fresno

B. Clark Haman

(+1) 818 230 2362

Clark @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Clark Haman is a managing partner in the firm’s Fresno office where he represents clients in all aspects of workers’ compensation litigation. Mr. Haman has represented a wide array of carriers and employers in civil litigation liability defense and workers’ compensation matters across the country.

Previously Mr. Haman served as a regional managing attorney for a national P&C carrier and Vice President of Claims Litigation for a multi-line TPA that specializes in workers’ compensation. In the latter, he supervised the organization’s national in-house litigation department and was responsible for measurable savings to client carriers and employers throughout his tenure.

Mr. Haman served six years in the USMC Reserve attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6).

Education: J.D., San Joaquin College of Law; 1999 | B.S., Criminology, California State University, Fresno; 1992

Admissions: California State Courts | Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, Eastern District of California

Los Angeles

Delwin Por

(+1) 626 844 6616

Delwin @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Managing Partner of the Los Angeles Office, Delwin Por joined LMLA as a senior associate in 2019. He has been defending insurance carriers, third-party administrators and self-insured employers in workers’ compensation matters for approximately eight years. Prior to joining LMLA, he was a partner at a large defense firm assisting in the management and operations of their multiple offices.

Mr. Por enjoys his work tremendously and is extremely passionate in representing his clients at every stage of litigation.

Education: J.D., Chapman University College of Law; 2010  | M.B.A., University of California, Los Angeles; | B.A., University of California, Irvine; 2004

Admissions: California State Courts

Bay Area

Dominic A. Santos

(+1) 510 285 9255

DominicS @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Dominic Aguon Santos is managing partner in the Bay Area offices of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he practices Workers' Compensation defense. Mr. Santos joined Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, in 2015 with a legal background in taxation, insurance defense, and workers’ compensation defense. Mr. Santos began practicing Workers’ Compensation law in 2009 and has extensive experience in all aspects of litigation, including drafting pleadings, motions and med–legal correspondence, conducting depositions of applicants and doctors, and performing settlement evaluations. Mr. Santos has appeared at WCAB's throughout California, representing his clients' interests at hearings, trials, and informal settlement conferences.

Education: J.D., University of California, Hastings College of the Law, San Francisco; 2006 | B.A., University of California, Riverside; 2002

Admissions: California State Courts | U.S. District Court, Central District of California | United States Supreme Court

Van Nuys

Eugenia “Jenny” Chentsova

(+1) 818 230 2557

Jenny @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Eugenia “Jenny” Chentsova is a partner in the firm’s Van Nuys location. She joined Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad in 2017 and brings with her 8 years of extensive experience in civil litigation. She possesses acute analytical skills, with the ability to spot issues and develop creative solutions in order to achieve optimal results for her clients. Ms. Chentsova has practiced Worker’s Compensation defense since 2015.

Applying a respectful, but aggressive approach, she has performed all aspects of litigation including development of strategies that lead to efficient case resolution. Ms. Chentsova is fluent in Russian.

Education: J.D., University of West, Los Angeles; 2014 | B.A., Pedagogical University, Russia; 2005

Admissions: California State Courts

Inland Empire

Mark M. Dehnert

(+1) 657 888-5700

Mark @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Mr. Dehnert is the managing partner of the firm’s Inland Empire Office. He has been practicing workers' compensation law since 1999. He is a Certified Workers' Compensation Specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization since 2005.

He represents insurance carriers, third-party administrators and self-insured employers in the defense of workers' compensation matters, alleged Labor Code Section 132a violations as well as Serious & Willful Misconduct claims.

Prior to the entering law school, Mr. Dehnert studied at the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona in the field of Electrical Engineering. He began his law career handling personal injury, estate planning and workers' compensation law. His practice has been dedicated solely to Workers' Compensation Defense since 2002.

Education: J.D., B.A. Western State University, College of Law, Fullerton, CA; 1998

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 204176 | Certified Specialist in Workers' Compensation Law

Los Angeles

Maria Borrelli

(+1) 626 844 6619

MariaB @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Maria is a an Associate Attorney in the Pasadena office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC where she practices Workers' Compensation defense.

Maria has been a Workers' Compensation defense attorney since 2014 and has experience representing various employers including PEOs, retail shops, restaurants, hotels, medical clinics, cities, and counties.

Maria makes a daily commitment to open communication, ethical decision-making, and assertive and straight forward case handling.

Maria also has a passion for giving back and she is a Big Sister in the Big Brother Big Sister program, does pro bono legal work for the local legal aid clinic, and does various volunteer work including a trip to Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria.

Education: J.D., Western State College of Law, Fullerton, CA; 2013 | B.S., The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, NC; 2010 | Associate of Science, Southern New Hampshire University, Manchester, NH; 2008

Admissions: California State Courts | U.S. District Court, Central District

Orange County

Phuong L. Pham

(+1) 657 888 5700

Phuong @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Phuong Pham is an Managing Partner in the Orange office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where she represents insurance carriers, self-insured employers and public entities in all aspects of workers’ compensation. Before joining LMLA, Ms. Pham was an associate with a large defense firm in Orange County, appearing at WCABs throughout Southern California.
Ms. Pham obtained her Juris Doctor degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law and her Bachelor of Arts in English from University of California, Irvine.

Education: J.D., Thomas Jefferson School of Law, San Diego; 2010 | Zhejiang University College of Law, Hangzhou, China; 2008 | B.A., University of California, Irvine; 2005

Admissions: California State Courts

Los Angeles

Glen Hatfield

(+1) 626 844 6616

Glen @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Glen Hatfield is an associate attorney in the firm’s Los Angeles office. Prior to joining the firm and becoming an attorney, he worked as a worker’s compensation adjuster for a large insurance company. As an adjuster, he primarily handled the settlement of complex and high exposure claims.

Glen holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from University of California, Los Angeles, and a Juris Doctor from Loyola Law School.

Education: J.D., Loyola Law School; 2016 | B.A., University of California, Los Angeles; 2008

Admissions: California State Courts

Van Nuys

Rachel Perez Delgado

(+1) 626 844 6616

Rachel @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Rachel Perez Delgado is an Associate in the Van Nuys office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez, and Azizad. Her practice revolves around workers’ compensation defense on behalf of employers, insurance carriers, and third party administrators.
Prior to working for Llarena Murdock, Rachel’s career concentrated in workers’ compensation in Florida for three years both as an attorney and law clerk. She is well versed in litigation, depositions, case resolution, and medical research. During law school, Rachel served as a judicial intern for Judge Richardson in the Middle District of Florida then as a law clerk for the Florida Office of the Attorney General. She graduated cum laude in the top 7% of her class from Florida Coastal School of Law and since then has primarily focused on workers’ compensation defense.

Education: J.D., Florida Coastal School of Law, Jacksonville, FL; 2018 | B.S., Trinity Baptist College, Jacksonville, FL; 200

Admissions: California State Courts | Florida State Courts

Los Angeles

Steven Lee

(+1) 626 844 6616

Steven @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Steven Lee is a partner in the Los Angeles office of LMLA. Mr. Lee is an experienced workers’ compensation attorney exclusively practicing on the defense side since 2007, and has represented everyone from small independent businesses, local municipalities and school districts to Fortune 500 companies.

His style of defending claims is a results-driven approach, with the goal being to ensure all aspects of a claim are driven within a framework constructed hand-in-hand with his clients.

Education: J.D., Southwestern Law School; 2007 | B.S., University of California, Riverside; 2004

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 251541

Orange County

Saad Bhatti

(+1) 657 888 5700

Saad @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Admissions: California State Courts

Inland Empire

Jill Jones

(+1) 657 888-5700

Jill @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Ms. Jones is a partner practicing out of the firm’s Inland Empire office, where she represents clients in all aspects of Workers’ Compensation litigation defense.

Ms. Jones graduated from Southwestern Law School in 1998 and immediately entered the practice of Workers’ Compensation. She has represented employers, insurance companies, and third part administrators in all stages of litigation for almost her entire career.

Ms. Jones has extensive experience defending, and litigating, Workers’ Compensation injury claims, including high exposure, and catastrophic cases. She has also effectively handled post-termination and good faith personnel action claims. In addition, Ms. Jones has defended serious and willful and 132a claims, and addressed subrogation issues, on behalf of employers.

Ms. Jones has a well-known rapport with claims examiners, allowing her to efficiently assist in managing, and resolving her cases. Ms. Jones prides herself on client accessibility, and open communication, to facilitate the earliest claim resolutions possible.

Education: J.D., Southwestern Law School, CA; 1998 | B.A., University of La Verne, CA; 1995

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 198770

Los Angeles

Anthony Santos

(+1) 626 844 6616

AnthonyS @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Mr. Santos is a partner in the firm’s Pasadena office where he represents clients in all aspects of workers’ compensation litigation. Mr. Santos graduated from U.C.L.A. with B.A. in History in 1996 and his juris doctorate from Whittier College School of Law in 2002.

Mr. Santos has significant experience defending and managing workers’ compensation injury claims with varying levels of exposure. He effectively communicates with claims examiners to manage cases from inception to resolution while providing ongoing education of workers’ compensation issues and trends.

In addition, he reviews claim files and provides plan of actions on issues of discovery, medical provider network control, fraud detection, return to work obstacles, compliance with the AMA Guides standards of apportionment and permanent disability.

Education: J.D., Whittier College, Costa Mesa, CA; 2002 | B.A., University of California, Los Angeles, CA; 1996

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 230990

Orange County

Matt Slimmer

(+1) 626 844 6616

MatthewS @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Matthew Slimmer is a partner in the firm’s Orange County Office. Matt started his career in workers’ compensation as a legal assistant while simultaneously attending law school. He began defending workers’ compensation claims as an associate attorney from day one of becoming a California licensed attorney. From legal assistant to partner, the breadth of his experience handling workers’ compensation claims has led to highly efficient representation of his clients.

Education: J.D., Pacific Coast University School of Law, Long Beach, CA; 2015 | B.S., California State University, Long Beach, CA; 2010

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 305083

Los Angeles

Alicia Valencia

(+1) 626 844 6616

Alicia @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Alicia Valencia is a partner in the firm’s Los Angeles Office. Ms. Valencia is a workers’s compensation defense attorney with over 14 years of experience representing insurance carriers, third party administrators, and self-insured employers in all aspects of workers’ compensation claims defense. Throughout the years, Ms. Valencia has developed great professional working relationships with her colleagues, opposing counsel, and Workers Compensation Judges.

Ms. Valencia communicates promptly with clients to ensure claims have a plan and are moving toward resolution, aggressively defending claims that require it, and quickly identifying and settling claims that present an opportunity for early resolution.

Education:

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 283555

Van Nuys

Adam Blankstein

(+1) 818 230 2362

AdamB @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Adam is an associate attorney at Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC., where he specializes in the practice of Workers’ Compensation defense. Adam graduated from Southwestern Law School after participating and competing in their Honor Negotiations and Arbitration Program. He is excellent at resolving cases, litigation, trial, depositions and cross-examinations of Primary Treating Physicians, Agreed Medical Examiners and Panel Qualified Medical Examiners.

Education: J.D., Southwestern Law School, Los Angeles, CA; 2020 | B.A., Occidental College, Los Angeles, CA; 2015

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 340147

Bay Area

Alexis Pettis

(+1) 510-285-9255

Alexis @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Alexis Pettis is an Associate Attorney in the Bay Area office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez, & Azizad, APC, where she represents clients in all aspects of Workers’ Compensation litigation.

Ms. Pettis graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a degree in Sociology and Psychology. She received her JD from Golden Gate University where she was awarded the CALI Award for Excellence in Alternative Dispute Resolution, Transactional Drafting, Legal Research and Writing, and Entertainment Law. In addition, she earned her Specialization Certificate in Litigation, Business Law, Public Interest Law, and Family Law.

Ms. Pettis was Admitted to the California State Bar in 2021. Ms. Pettis has experience at trial, conducting depositions, negotiating lien settlements, and appearing at the WCAB on all expects of litigation. Ms. Pettis is excellent at facilitating claim resolution in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Education: J.D., Golden Gate University School of Law, San Francisco, CA | B.A., University of California, Santa Barbara, CA

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 341367

Sacramento

Alec Douglas Peden

(+1) 916 852 0501

Alec @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Alec is an associate attorney in the firm’s Sacramento office, where he represetsnts clients in all aspects of workers’ compensation itigation.

Education: J.D., University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, Sacramento, CA; 2022 | B.A., University of the Pacific, College of the Pacific, Stockton, CA; 2019

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 349530

Orange County

Andy Mendoza

(+1) 657 888-5700

Andy @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Andy Mendoza is a Senior Associate Attorney in the Orange County Office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he practices Workers' Compensation defense.

Mr. Mendoza has significant experience in workers’ compensation and civil litigation defense work defending workers’ compensation injury claims and pursuing civil third-party subrogation matters. He has been practicing law since 2004 and has represented insurance companies and employers in all stages of litigation from inception to trial. Mr. Mendoza has obtained several defense verdicts in multi-million-dollar cases on behalf of his clients.

Represents employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators in all aspects of workers’ compensation claims. In addition, Andy handles Workers’ Compensation Claims and Subrogation matters from inception to adjudication and/or settlement.

Education: J.D., Whittier School of Law, Costa Mesa, CA; 2004 | B.A., California Polytechnic State University, Pomona, CA; 2001

Admissions: California State Courts | state Bar of California, State Bar Number 234231

Los Angeles

Artin Shahnazarian

(+1) 626 844 6616

Art @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Admissions: California State Courts

Los Angeles

Charles Tan Keh

(+1) 818 230 2557

Charles @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Charles Keh is an senior associate with the Los Angeles office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez, & Azizad, APC, where he practices Workers' Compensation defense.

Mr. Keh is involved in aspects of discovery, including but not limited to taking depositions of injured workers, drafting of medical-legal interrogatories to medical experts, cross-examination of medical experts, and adjudication of cases up to and including trials before the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB).

Additionally, he represents employers on matters involving discrimination under Labor Code, Section 132 (a) and Serious and Willful Misconduct (Labor Code Section 4554).

Mr. Keh has been practicing workers' compensation defense since 2013.

Education: J.D., University of La Verne College of Law, Ontario, CA; 2012 | B.A., Environmental Studies, University of Nevada, Las Vegas; 2008

Admissions: California State Courts

San Diego

Christina A. Hindman

(+1) 626 844-6616

Christina @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Christina A. Hindman is a Senior Associate Attorney in the San Diego office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where she represents clients in all aspects of workers’ compensation litigation.

Christina graduated from the University of San Diego School of Law in 2002, and subsequently engaged in environmental law. She has practiced worker’s compensation since 2003 and in that time has gained significant experience defending and managing claims with varying levels of exposure.

Christina is known for effectively communicating with claims examiners to manage cases from inception to resolution, while providing ongoing education of workers’ compensation issues and trends. She is excellent with early settlement and unique litigation strategies and is well-versed in all discovery action needed to bring claims to conclusion.

Education: J.D., University of San Diego School of Law, San Diego CA; 2002 | B.S., University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA; 1998

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 222535

Inland Empire

Clara R. Forman

(+1) 657 888-5700

Clara @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Admissions: California State Courts

Inland Empire

Courtney Nakatani

(+1) 657 888-5700

Courtney @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Ms. Nakatani is a senior associate in our Inland Empire office.

She has practiced workers’ compensation exclusively her entire career spanning over 2 decades. Her extensive experience in workers’ compensation has prepared her to handle your most difficult claims including those deemed catastrophic/large loss claims.

Her practice philosophy is a team-based approach collaborating with the employer and claims to strategize a legal defense at claim inception or soon thereafter and implement proactive tactics to leverage early claim resolution and minimize case exposure. She finds that this approach and the open line of communication allows her to obtain all the information necessary to effectively defend those cases she handles.

In addition to case handling, she enjoys sharing her vast experience with others whether training new attorneys or providing training to clients on the latest hot topic in workers’ compensation.

In her downtime Ms. Nakatani enjoys spending time at home on her mini ranch with all her animals and riding the local Norco trails.

Education: J.D., Southwestern University; 2002

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 221798

Fresno

Daniel J. Aguilar

(+1) 559 248 1093

DanielA @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Daniel J. Aguilar is an senior associate in the Fresno office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he practices Workers' Compensation defense.

Upon graduating from McGeorge School of Law in 2003, he has focused solely on Workers' Compensation Defense.

Daniel has appeared at numerous trials resulting in many take nothings. Daniel has specialized in handling of both large loss cases and subrogation.

Education: J.D., University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, Sacramento, CA; 2003 | B.A., California State University, Fresno; 1999

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 227970

Van Nuys

David A. Reed

(+1) 818 230 2557

David @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: David A. Reed is an Senior Associate Attorney in the Van Nuys Office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he practices Workers' Compensation defense.

After a career in baseball culminating in a season for the scout league affiliated with the Chicago White Sox, Mr. Reed began his legal career in entertainment, environmental and complex tort litigation before utilizing his ardent litigation skills in the field of workers’ compensation for the past 18 years – initially representing applicants, he transitioned to defending large employers, self- insureds, public utilities, and insurance companies.

Mr. Reed is a frequent presenter to small employers and labor groups on the initial, aggressive handling of claims.

Education: J.D., Oklahoma City University School of Law; 1997 | B.A. San Francisco State University, CA 1992

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 196648

Orange County

Frank Cabibi

(+1) 657 888-5700

Frank @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Admissions: California State Courts

Los Angeles

G. Dean Guerrero

(+1) 626-844-6616

Dean @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: G. Dean Guerrero is a senior associate attorney with the Los Angeles office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad.

Mr. Guerrero has significant experience in workers compensation and civil litigation defense work defending workers’ compensation injury claims and pursuing civil third-party subrogation matters. He has been practicing law since 2003 and has represented insurance companies and employers in all stages of litigation from inception to trial.

Education: J.D., Whittier Law School, Costa Mesa, CA; 2002 | B.S., Long Beach State University, Long Beach, CA; 1999

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 228625 | U.S. District Court, Central District of California | U.S. District Court, Northern District of California | U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California | Los Angeles County Bar Association, American Bar Association | Philippine American Bar Association

Inland Empire

Gary Harr

(+1) 626 844 6616

Gary @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Gary Harr is a Senior Associate Attorney in the Inland Empire office of LMLA.

Education: J.D., Trinity Law School, Santa Ana, CA; 2011 | B.S., University of California, Riverside; 2003

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 285122

Sacramento

Gerald Latasa

(+1) 916 852 0501

Gerald @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Gerald (Gerry) Latasa is an senior associate in the firm's Sacramento office. He represents employers, insurance carriers, and third party administrators in all aspects of workers' compensation litigation.

Gerry graduated from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in 2013, and shortly began work as an applicant's attorney. He then switched to defense, practicing at workers' compensation boards throughout northern California. He stays in close communication with clients in order to bring claims to swift resolution.

Outside of the office, Gerry serves on the Pacific McGeorge Alumni Association Board of Directors and has served on the board of SacLegal, an affiliate of the Sacramento County Bar Association.

Education: J.D., University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, Sacramento, CA; 2013 | B.A., University of the Pacific, Stockton; 2010

Admissions: California State Courts

Sacramento

Hunter Hayes

(+1) 626 844 6616

Hunter @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Hunter Hayes is an associate attorney in the Sacramento office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he practices Workers' Compensation defense.

Mr. Hayes has significant experience defending and managing workers’s compensation injury claims with varying levels of exposure. He effectively communicates with claims examiners to manage cases from inception to resolution while providing ongoing education of workers’ compensation issues and trends.

Education: J.D., McGeorge School of Law, Sacramento, CA; 2023 | B.S., University of California, Los Angeles, CA; 2018

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 352263

Fresno

Ijeoma Chima

(+1) 559 248 1093

Ijeoma @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Admissions: California State Courts

Van Nuys

Jeffrey Levenson

(+1) 818 230 2362

JeffreyL @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Jeffrey is an senior associate in the Van Nuys office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he practices Workers' Compensation defense.

Jeff has over 25 years' experience in the insurance industry. First as a worker compensation claims examiner for an insurance company before transitioning to the owner and operating a full service insurance brokerage specializing in property and casualty insurance. In addition to sales Jeff provided risk management and other consulting services. During this period Jeff attended law school at night.

After passing the Bar, Jeff decided to return to the workers compensation field as a defense attorney where he utilizes his prior insurance industry experience in his approach to defending workers compensation claims

Education: J.D., Santa Barbara and Ventura Colleges of Law, CA; 2014 | Master of Arts, National Security Studies, California State University, San Bernardino; 1990 | B.A., Political Science, California State University, Northridge; 1988

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 296696

Los Angeles

Jennifer Riley

(+1) 626 844 6616

JenniferR @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Jennifer Riley is a senior associate attorney at Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC., where she specializes in Workers’ Compensation defense. Ms. Riley has extensive experience defending, managing and mitigating workers’ compensation claims with varying levels of exposure and liability.

Ms. Riley knows how to communicate with claims examiners, claim consultants, and insureds of any size to manage cases from inception to resolution.

Education: J.D., Thomas Jefferson School of Law, San Diego, CA; 2006 | B.A., Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego, CA; 2002

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 246940

Los Angeles

John M. Koutsoukos

(+1) 626-844-6616

John @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Admissions: California State Courts

Fresno

Jonas N. Parr

(+1) (559) 248-1093

Jonas @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Jonas Parr is a senior associate in the Fresno office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he practices Workers' Compensation defense.

Jonas graduated from the University of California at Berkeley, and then the San Joaquin College of Law.

Jonas has practiced worker's compensation since 2015 and in that time has represented employers, third party administrators and insurance companies in all stages of litigation.

Education: J.D., San Joaquin College of Law, Fresno, CA | B.A., English, University of California at Berkeley

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 303739

Van Nuys

Jordan Cuellar

(+1) 818 230 2362

Jordan @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Admissions: California State Courts

Los Angeles

Joseph A. Wazir

(+1) 626 844 6616

Email: Joseph @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Joe Wazir is an associate in the Los Angeles office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he practices Workers' Compensation defense. He graduated Loyola Law School in 2020, with Order of the Coif honors (10% of graduating class).

Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Wazir worked as a workers' compensation adjuster for a large insurance company. As an adjuster, he handled high exposure, litigated claims. Upon passing the California bar, Mr. Wazir handled personal injury, public entity, and business litigation in the civil realm before moving to workers' compensation defense.

Mr. Wazir also graduated from Loyola Marymount University with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration.

Education: J.D., Loyola Law School, Los Angeles; 2020 | B.A., Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles; 2012

Admissions: California State Courts | U.S. District Court, Central District of California | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 334127

Los Angeles

Justine Buan

(+1) 626-844-6616

Justine @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Admissions: California State Courts

Bay Area

Karen Hinojosa

(+1) 510 285 9255

Karen @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Karen Hinojosa is an Associate Attorney in the Bay Area office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where she represents clients in all aspects of Workers’ Compensation Litigation.

Karen graduated from UC Riverside with a degree in Global Studies and a minor in Middle East Islamic Studies. She received her JD from UC Hastings, now known as UC Law San Francisco, where she was awarded the CALI Award in Legal Ethics and the Witkin Award in Wills and Trust.

Karen was admitted to the California State Bar in 2022

Education: J.D., UC Law San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; 2020 | B.A., University of California, Riverside, CA; 2013

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, Riverside, CA; 2013

Los Angeles

Krista J. Myers

(+1) 626-844-6616

Krista @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Krista Myers is an associate attorney with Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad. Ms. Myers joined the firm with a legal background in civil litigation, transactional law, workers’ compensation defense, and immigration law. Ms. Myers previously worked for the Department of Homeland Security, as an Assistant Chief Counsel, litigating immigration cases out of southern Texas.

While completing her undergraduate and Juris Doctor degrees, Ms. Myers worked for several law firms in a variety of capacities, including as a legal secretary, case manager and law clerk.

Ms. Myers graduated from Whittier Law School, and was admitted to the California State Bar, in December 2013. Subsequently, Ms. Myers performed transactional work, reviewing, and negotiating land use contracts for a Fortune 500 company.

Education: J.D., Whittier Law School, Costa Mesa; 2013 | B.S., California State University, Sacramento; 2008

Admissions: California State Courts

Sacramento

Kristin L. Bergesen

(+1) 916 852 0501

Email: Kristin @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Kristin Bergesen earned her J.D. from American University, Washington College of Law in 2007. She began her career in private practice with a focus on criminal defense and personal injury. She transitioned to the role of Workers' Compensation Defense Attorney in 2009, and has now practiced Workers' Compensation defense for over a decade.

Ms. Bergesen is experienced with all aspects of Workers' Compensation practice, including Trials, cross-examination of medical-legal evaluators, applicant and witness depositions, hearings, and management of cases from inception through the appellate process. She has worked with applicant's attorneys, codefendants, and clients to resolve cases at all stages of the litigation process. She has collaborated with clients to develop discovery, litigation, and resolution plans on a wide array of workers' compensation issues. In addition to handling cases, Ms. Bergesen also enjoys providing educational presentations and articles to clients and attorneys in order to help them better understand and navigate the complex California Workers' Compensation system.

Education: J.D., American University, Washington College of Law, Washington, DC; 2007 | B.A., University of California, Los Angeles; 2003

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 257447

Sacramento

Kylie C. Stackalis

(+1) 626 844 6616

Kylie @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Kylie Stackalis is an associate attorney in the Sacramento office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where she practices Workers' Compensation defense.

Education: J.D., University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, Sacramento, CA; 2020 | B.S., California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA; 2016

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 338959

Los Angeles

Laura Dupuis

(+1) 626-844-6616

Laura @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Laura Dupuis is an associate in the Van Nuys office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where she practices Workers' Compensation defense.

Laura graduated from Pepperdine School of Law in 2001 and subsequently engaged in the practice of Workers’ Compensation Law. She has significant experience defending and Managing workers’ compensation claims having practiced worker’s compensation since graduating and in that time has represented numerous employers and insurance companies in all stages of litigation.

Laura is comfortable at trial, and deposing physicians. She is excellent at resolving cases, litigation, trial, depositions and cross-examinations of Primary Treating Physicians, Agreed Medical Examiners and Panel Qualified Medical Examiners.

Education:J.D., Pepperdine University School of Law, Malibu, CA; 2001 | B.A., University of California, Los Angeles, CA;

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 220317

Los Angeles

Leeann G. McNicholas

(+1) 626-844-6616

Leeann @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Leeann McNicholas is a senior associate in the Los Angeles of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where she practices Workers' Compensation defense.

Leeann graduated from Santa Clara University Law School in 1989 and subsequently engaged in practicing business and civil litigation as well as personal injury and medical malpractice before concentrating her practice solely to workers' compensation. She has practiced worker's compensation in California since 2010 and became a California certified workers' compensation specialist in 2015. Since 2010, she has represented employers and insurance companies in all stages of litigation. She is licensed in both California and Nevada.

As a result of her extensive civil litigation experience and workers' compensation experience, she is very comfortable at trial, deposing physicians, and has conducted a significant amount of appeals work. She is excellent at resolving cases, litigation, trial, depositions and cross-examinations of Primary Treating Physicians, Agreed Medical Examiners and Panel Qualified Medical Examiners. She reviews all files with an eye towards the best and most efficient resolution to benefit the client while still maintaining an aggressive defense.

Education: JD., Santa Clara University School of Law, Santa Clara, CA;1989 | B.S. Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA 1985 | Loyola University of Chicago, Rome - Study Abroad 1983-1984

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 144228 | State Bar of Nevada, State Bar Number 4005 | United States District Court, District of Nevada United States Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit | Certified Specialist in Workers' Compensation Law

Inland Empire

Lydia Hervatin

(+1) 657 888-5700

Lydia @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Lydia is an associate attorney at LMLA’s Inland Empire Office where she specializes in the practice of Workers’ Compensation defense. She brings over 15 years of legal experience, including in-house general cousel roles at major corporations and litigation practice at a national law firm. Lydia has successfully tried jury trials, managed complex lega teams, and advised executive leadership on regulatory enforcement, consumer lending, insurance, and litigation strategy. Her background includes high-stakes work in personal injury, product liability, employment law, financial compliance, and defense litigation

Lydia is now focused on defending employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators with the goal of moving matters towards quick and efficent resolution.

Education: J.D., Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, CA; 1991 | B.S. DePaul University, Chicago, IL; 1981

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 159020

Sacramento

Mario Alarcon

(+1) 916 852 0501

Mario @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Mario Alarcon is an associate attorney in the Sacramento office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he practices Workers' Compensation defense.

Education: J.D., McGeorge School of Law, Sacramento, CA; 2023 | B.A. Humboldt State University, Arcata CA; 2018

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 353942

Orange County

Matthew J. Apostle

(+1) 657 888 5700

Matthew @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Matthew is an associate attorney at LMLA’s Orange County Office where he specializes in the practice of Workers’ Compensation defense. Matthew worked for over 10 years representing countless injured workers in all aspects of the workers’ compensation system. This gives him knowledge of both sides of the litigation process. He is very comfortable appearing at hearings and trials and has developed good relationships with his fellow attorneys and Judges.

Matthew is now focused on defending employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators with the goal of moving matters towards quick and efficient resolution.

Education: J.D., Thomas Jefferson School of Law, San Diego, CA; 2012 | B.A., University of San Diego, San Diego, CA; 2009

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 290288

Los Angeles

Michael Fieldman

(+1) 626-844-6616

Summary:Michael is an associate attorney at LMLA’s Los Angeles Office where he specializes in the practice of Workers’ Compensation defense.

Education: J.D., Sandra Day O’Conner college of Law at Arizona State University; 2018 | B.A., George Washington University, Washington, D.C.; 2010

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 323501

Orange County

Nixon Ma

(+1) 657 888 5700

Nixon @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Nixon Ma is an senior associate in LMLA’s Orange County Office. Mr. Ma has experience representing employers, third party administrators and insurance carriers in all aspects of workers’ compensation claims. Mr. Ma graduated, with Honors, from the University of California, San Diego where he earned a degree in Political Science and minor in Socio-Cultural Anthropology. He received his Juris Doctorate from Southwestern University School of Law where he received multiple Witkins Awards for Academic Excellence, externed for the Honorable Barry Russell in the United States Bankruptcy Court and served as an Editor for the Southwestern Journal of International Law.

Education: J.D., Southwestern University School of Law; 2014 | B.A., California State University, San Diego; 2010

Admissions: California State Courts | U.S. District Court, Southern District of California

Orange County

Rebecca Jensen

(+1) 657 888 5700

Rebecca @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Rebecca Jensen is an associate attorney in the Orange office. She joined the firm in 2025.

Ms. Jensen has been handling cases at all WCABs in the state since passing the bar in 2019. She focuses on achieving cost-effective case resolutions and building long-lasting relationships with clients by being responsive and thorough. With a focus on strategic advocacy, Rebecca works to secure favorable outcomes while maintaining client trust.

Education: J.D., Pepperdine University, School of Law; 2019 | B.A., University of Alabama; 2016 Magna Cum Laude

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 328429

Bay Area

Robert Puljiz

(+1) 510 285 9255

RobertP @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Admissions: California State Courts

Orange County

Sevan Zulikyan

(+1) 657 888 5700

Sevan @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Sevan is an associate attorney at LMLA’s Orange County Office where he specializes in the practice of Workers’ Compensation defense. Sevan has over 20 years of experience representing insurance carriers, third-party administrators, and self-insured entities in all aspects of the workers’ compensation system. He is very comfortable appearing at hearings and trials and has developed good relationships with his fellow attorneys and Judges.

Sevan is now focused on defending employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators with the goal of moving matters towards quick and efficent resolution.

Education: J.D., Whittier Law School, Costa Mesa, CA; 2004 | B.A., California State Long Beach, Long Beach CA; 1999

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of Caifornia, State Bar Number 236922

Orange County

Simon C. Panczyk

(+1) 657 888-5700

Simon @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Simon C. Panczyk is an senior associate in LMLA's Orange County Office. Mr. Panczyk has experience representing employers, third party administrators and insurance carriers in all aspects of workers' compensation claims.

Mr. Panczyk received his Juris Doctorate, with Honors, from Whittier College School of Law, where he received a certificate in the specialty of Intellectual Property, competed in several mock trial competitions, and served as an Articles Editor for Whittier's Journal of Child and Family Advocacy.

Mr. Panczyk has been practicing workers' compensation defense since 2014.

Education: J.D., Whittier Law School, Costa Mesa, CA; 2012 | B.A., Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA; 2000

Admissions: California State Courts

Los Angeles

Sloane S. Tay

(+1) 626 844 6616

Sloane @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Sloane is an associate attorney at LMLA’s Los Angeles Office where she specializes in the practice of Workers’ Compensation defense.

Sloane is fluent in Mandarin Chinese.

Education: J.D., Western State College of Law, Irvine, CA; 2018 | B.S., University of California, Los Angeles, CA; 2010

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 322777

Los Angeles

Solomon Chen

(+1) 626 844 6616

Solomon @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:Solomon Chen is a Workers' Compensation Attorney at Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he represents clients in all aspects of workers’ compensation litigation. With a thorough understanding of workers’ compensation laws and a commitment to securing fair outcomes, Mr. Chen advocates for employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators across California, providing expert guidance and legal support throughout the entire claims process.

Mr. Chen earned his Juris Doctor degree from Southwestern Law School, attending evening classes while working full-time for various entertainment studios. Prior to joining LMLA, he gained valuable experience at another respected Workers’ Compensation defense firm, where he achieved numerous favorable outcomes, including successful settlements, dismissals, and "take nothings."

Education: J.D., Southwestern Law School, Los Angeles; 2018 | B.S., University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA; 2007

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 325765

Van Nuys

Sona Demurchyan

(+1) 818 230 2362

SonaD @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Sona Demurchyan is an Associate Attorney in the Sherman Oaks office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where she practices Workers' Compensation Defense.

Ms. Demurchyan graduated from USC Gould School of Law, where she earned a Master Degree in Business Law. She earned her Master in Tax Laws and Bachelor of Laws from Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium. After being admitted to the California State Bar, Ms. Demurchyan has been practicing law in the area of Workers' Compensation Defense throughout California.

Ms. Demurchyan was born in Armenia, and raised in Belgium. Her international education and experiences have enhanced her ability to communicate with people from different backgrounds.

Ms. Demurchyan is fluent in Dutch, Armenian and French.

Education: LL.M, University of Southern California, Gould School of Law, 2019 | MA, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium, 2018 | LL.B., Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium, 2016.

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 338679

Los Angeles

Susan Soleimani

(+1) 818 230 2362

Susan @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education: J.D., Brooklyn Law School, Brooklyn, NY; 2010 | B.S., California State Long Beach, Long Beach, CA; 2002

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 283510

Los Angeles

Sylvain de Muizon

(+1) 626 844 6616

Sylvain @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Sylvain de Muizon is an associate attorney at LMLA’s Los Angeles office.

Sylvain has over 20 years of experience handling workers’ compensation matters mostly as a defense attorney, but also as an applicant’s attorney. Mr. de Muizon has a proven track record of using his personal, communication and organization skills to handle all aspects of litigation including hearings, applicant depositions, doctor cross-examinations and trials.

Education: J.D., Georgetown University Law Center, Washington, DC; 2004 | B.S. Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA; 1999

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 236713

Los Angeles

Teresa K. Heitz

(+1) 626-844-6616

Teresa @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Teresa Heitz is an Associate in the firm’s Pasadena office representing clients in worker’s compensation litigation. She graduated from USC with a bachelor’s in international relations and received her JD from University of Kansas. She has experience both as a defense attorney for private firms and house counsel as well as applicant’s attorney with a year handling third party litigation and a significant expertise in psychiatric cases including cross examination of doctors due to additional Master’s Degree in psychology.

Teresa Heitz is aggressive at pushing early resolution on disputed cases and is thorough in deposing injured workers to provide the best possible discovery plan when moving cases towards trial. She brings with her over 30 years of litigation experience and has even conducted conferences as a Judge Pro Temp with a stellar rapport with judges and attorneys in the field.

Education: M.A., Antioch University, Los Angeles, CA; 1998 | J.D., University of Kansas School of Law, Los Angeles, CA; 1985 | B.S., University of Southern California, Lawrence, KS; 1982

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 122032

Los Angeles

Theodore K. De la Haye

(+1) 626 844-6616

Theodore @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Ted de la Haye is a senior associate based out of the Pasadena office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, where he practices workers' compensation defense.

Ted graduated from Chapman Law School in 2012 and has exclusively represented employers, insurance carries, and TPAs in all aspects of workers' compensation litigation during his career. Ted was a claims adjuster prior to law school which has provided valuable insight in his practice.

Ted has significant experience defending and managing workers compensation injury claims with varying levels of exposure. He effectively communicates with claims examiners to manage cases from inception to resolution while providing ongoing education of workers' compensation issues.

Education: J.D., Chapman University School of Law, Orange, CA; 2012 | B.A. Humanities/ Philosophy Emphasis, cum laude, Biola University, La Mirada, CA; 2005

Admissions: California State Courts | State Bar of California, State Bar Number 288757

Los Angeles

Vanessa L. Ng

(+1) 626-844-6616

VanessaN @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Admissions: California State Courts

Van Nuys

Viswesh Chandramouli

(+1) 818 230-2362

Viswesh @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Admissions: California State Courts

Van Nuys

Christopher A. Bassallo

(+1) 818 230 2362

ChristopherB @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Los Angeles

Jenn Hawkins

(+1) 626 844-6616

Jenn @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Orange County

Maria Starr

(+1) 657 888 5700

Maria @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Maria Starr is a hearing representative and lien Unit Manager in the Orange office of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad. Ms. Starr has appeared at WCAB venues throughout California for lien conferences and lien trials where she has obtained multiple take nothings.

Ms. Starr’s 20+ years of experience in Workers’ Compensation, Collections and Customer Service, paired with her ability to move cases forward when negotiations appear to be at a standstill, make Maria a great addition to our LMLA Lien Resolution Team.

Education: Administration of Justice, Citrus College, Azusa, CA; 1985

Orange County

Olivia Avila

(+1) 657 888 5700

OliviaA @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Los Angeles

Paul R. Sanchez

(+1) 626 844-6616

Paul @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

San Diego

Rafael Alvarez

(+1) 619 324-4423

Rafael @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

TBD

Steven A. Hoffman

Steve @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:,

Van Nuys

Steven V. Davidov

(+1) 818 230 2557

StevenD @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:,

Van Nuys

Zine Eddine Isseri

(+1) 818 230-2362

Zine @ lmlalaw.com

Summary:

Education:

Los Angeles

Andra D. Staško  Director of Client Services and Operations

(+1) 626 844 6616

Andra @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: In her role of Director of Client Services and Operations, Andra Staško brings a wealth of experience to Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC. Ms. Staško has had an extensive operations career and has worked for some of the largest national and global companies responsible for media planning and buying, as well as legal services. Ms. Staško has a strong background in change management and has developed various systems to maximize efficiencies, accuracy, and accountability.

Prior to joining LMLA Andra was the Operations Director of a major national workers’ compensation law practice with over 300+ employees across 12 states.

Andra is active in her community and contributes time to several cultural groups. She is also fluent in Latvian and contributes time to several Latvian associations.

Los Angeles

Dee Dee Demarest  Director of Administration

(+1) 626 844 6616

Deedee @ lmlalaw.com

Los Angeles

Janine N. Lopez  Marketing and Event Co-ordinator

(+1) 626 844 6616

Janine @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Janine Lopez joined Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC, in January 2017 as the marketing and event co-ordinator, building on her previous experience and now representative of LMLA's emphasis on community events and Continuing Professional Development for the multitude of Claims Analysts working in the field of Workers Compensation. These two services demonstrate the commitment of the company to the citizens of California and Ms. Lopez will be a central part of these initiatives.

Los Angeles

Nietani Rodriguez  Office Manager

(+1) 626 844 6616

Nietani @ lmlalaw.com

Summary: Nietani Rodriguez works at the Pasadena offices of Llarena, Murdock, Lopez & Azizad, APC. Ms. Rodriguez has spent her professional career of 25+ years working for Workers’ Compensation firms, both on the defense and applicant sides, where she gained extensive knowledge in legal administration and support, as well as billing/accounting.

Ms. Rodriguez applies her experience to overseeing the smooth running of the file intake, calendar and legal support staff functions across our offices. Additionally Ms. Rodriguez is our HR Manager and handles employee relations and benefits at LMLA.

Ms. Rodriguez is an avid supporter of her son’s High School Football team and strongly believes in giving back to the community. She has actively volunteered for various community youth organizations as Athletic Director for 7 years, and most recently an Assistant Cheer Coach