Coffee Talk: What did you do this year that you’re most proud of?

As an immigration law practitioner, the stakes can be very high when it comes to representing clients in deportation defense cases. One of the firm’s most difficult, yet rewarding cases this year was defending an undocumented woman who was a victim of domestic violence and put in immigration deportation proceedings. While three months pregnant, her United States Citizen partner reported her to Immigration Customs Enforcement and she was put in detention for over four weeks. Our office vigorously fought her deportation and after exhausting every possible legal avenue, we were able to get her released from Department of Homeland Security Custody and are now applying a U Visa for victims of Domestic Violence on her behalf. She is now home with her two year old child and six months pregnant and awaiting to get legal status in the United States.

Spojmie Nasiri, Law Office of Spojmie Nasiri

I spent more time with my family, less time working (especially out of town), and embarked on a healthier lifestyle.

Brian Zagon, Hunsucker Goodstein PC

I am most proud of completing two GoRuck Challenges www.goruck.com. They are 10-12 hour class based physical challenges carrying 45lb backpacks over night led by current and retired Special Operation Forces (Special Forces, Marine Recon and Surface Warfare). Looking forward to a 24 hour challenge this May in DC with all participants over 40 years old.

David S. Pearson, Law Offices of David S. Pearson

I am the most proud of the fact that I started my own practice. I feel successful!

JoAnne Biernacki, Esq., JB Legal Counsel

I retired from the full time practice of the law at the end of 2007. I am proud of the fact that I have been able to balance a limited practice, (small corporations, business & living trusts, no family law), with traveling around the world, China in 2011, Europe this year, spending time with family, watching the Giants and 49ers. Congratulations to you, Josanna, you will enjoy your retirement, whatever you do.

Len Kully, CCCBA member for 51 years

Being able to take both of my daughters fishing in a tournament at Stampede Reservoir in August where they each got a trophy in the junior division.

David A. Arietta, Law Offices of David A. Arietta