Today we’d like to introduce you to Fernanda Ezquerro
Hi Fernanda, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in Chula Vista, my first language was Spanish because it was the language we spoke at home. I learned English at school, because of that, I understand the unique struggles Spanish speakers face when dealing with the legal system and how vulnerable the language barrier can make people feel. The only time I ever moved away from San Diego was when I went to college at UCLA. Right after college I moved back to San Diego and went to law school.
After passing the bar, I began working at an immigration and criminal defense firm. I found that I could connect with the clients because I spoke their language (Spanish). I really enjoyed putting them at ease and showing them that our legal system is not as scary when you have someone fighting on your side. I spent years working for that firm, learning and honing my craft.
Today, I own Ezquerro Law Group, my own firm. I practice exclusively in State and Federal court. The majority of my clients are Spanish speakers. They often tell me it is easier for them to trust me because they can speak to me in Spanish. I serve on the Criminal Justice Act panel and represent indigent clients charged with federal offenses. I am also a committee member of the San Diego Gang Prevention and Intervention Committee.
I’m extremely lucky that I get to practice in the city I love and grew up in.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road. I have had to work hard to establish myself as a lawyer. At first everyone assumed I was the interpreter or paralegal.
Thankfully I have two incredible mentors whom I still work closely with. They have supported me throughout my journey. It is not easy to get clients as a young lawyer. Everyone prefers the older lawyers with a beard and white hair for obvious reasons. I have found that often times it’s the younger, new lawyers and hungry to prove their worth who will go the extra mile for their clients. That is exactly what I did and thankfully it has paid off.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Ezquerro Law Group is a full service defense firm. The firms mission is to provide fearless and compassionate representation for our clients. I give my cell number out to all of my clients. I find that it makes them feel better to know that they can reach me directly without having call my office and speak to my assistant. I have an open door policy where clients can come to my office even without an appointment. Being accessible to them helps build trust.
I dont treat my clients as just case numbers. They are people with stories, families and futures. It’s important to know their stories to better represent them and fight for them. Criminal defense is not a one size fits all. I tailor my clients defense based on their specific backgrounds and needs.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m always looking for opportunities to be more involved in the community. Especially ways to teach about their rights. Being informed makes interactions with the legal system, especially law enforcement less scary. If anyone wants me to come speak about legal rights and the process let me know.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Ezquerrolawgroup.com
- Instagram: attorneyferni
Image Credits
Guillermo Balboa
Victor Santana
