Know More About Us | Arellano Law Firm PC

Higinio (“Neo”) Arellano

Partner

Higinio (“Neo”) Arellano obtained his Bachelor’s of Arts degree from UC Berkeley and his Juris Doctor degree from Sandra Day O’Connor Law School in Arizona. Both universities consistently perform in the top 10% nationally.

In Arizona while completing his second and third years in law school, Mr. Arellano practiced as a summer associate for a prominent Arizona law firm handling complex research and substantive motion matters in real estate, education law, constitutional law, and administrative law.

Thereafter, Mr. Arellano relocated to the state of California where he clerked for a Superior Court Judge. In this capacity, Mr. Arellano began his early advanced legal writing career primarily in complex statute research, motion practice, and appellate practice writing.

In 2015, Mr. Arellano moved to Oregon, providing design and construction contract review, drafting, and negotiation for a prominent 250+ employee architecture and engineering firm in Portland. In 2016, from small professional services contracts to multi-million complex public works contracts, Mr. Arellano provided legal review, drafting, negotiations, and recommendations to architects, engineers, and other design professional clients in construction and real estate matters. Mr. Arellano was also instrumental in negotiating and navigating all insurance contract issues that presented on wide range of projects.

Since founding Arellano Law Firm PC in 2019, just months before the historical pandemic, Mr. Arellano has built a practice centered on fast client service, economical and competent representation across general practice areas, and a willingness to pursue trial and arbitrations at any appropriate opportunity for any of its clients. Mr. Arellano prides himself on always returning his client’s calls and ensuring the firm’s clients know every stage of their case.

An integral part of Mr. Arellano’s practice includes his extensive experience in personal injury cases, especially those involving catastrophic injuries. He has successfully represented clients suffering from brain and spinal injuries, loss of limbs, and wrongful death. These cases often involve complex litigation against semi-truck companies and other large entities responsible for significant harm. Mr. Arellano’s advanced experience in this area ensures that his clients receive the dedicated and thorough representation they need to navigate the challenges of their cases and secure the compensation they deserve.

Mr. Arellano practices in all areas described on our services page, with a special emphasis on bringing justice to those affected by severe personal injury incidents.

Steven Zimmerman

Managing Attorney

Steven Zimmerman is a Managing Attorney at the Arellano Law Firm who practices general plaintiff’s litigation in the area of business, personal injury, real estate, construction, as well as bankruptcy, and administrative law.

Steven graduated from California State University, Fresno, and received his B.S. in Agriculture Business with a B.A. minor in Philosophy. After completing his undergraduate degree, Steven moved to Montgomery, Alabama and attended Thomas Goode Jones School of Law.

Steven participated on the traveling mock trial team and externed for the Federal Bankruptcy Court and received his J.D. in 2017.

Prior to joining the Arellano Law Firm, Steven represented peace officers, teachers, and various other public employees through investigations and disciplinary matters in Skelly hearings, arbitration, ALJ hearings, and attended depositions. He also represented various public employee unions during and through the negotiation process to obtain the best possible contracts for the union members.

Steven strives for excellence and to uphold the integrity of his clients. Professionalism and efficiency are just two of Steven’s strongest qualities. Outside of work, Steven enjoys swinging a golf club, bowling, snowboarding, and being outdoors.

Alejandra G. Klein

Attorney

Alejandra Klein is an Attorney at Arellano Law Firm who practices transactional, corporate, personal injury, real estate, and construction law.

Alejandra graduated from University of San Diego, California, receiving an LLM. Alejandra is a member of the State Bar of California and the Oregon State Bar. Prior to joining Arellano Law Firm, Alejandra represented very large public and international companies for over 15 years.

She also represented various clients in the area of transactional, corporate, real estate and construction law.

Alejandra is passionate about equal access to justice and providing access to legal services to the Hispanic community in their native language. She is a dedicated and strong advocate for her clients. Outside of work, Alejandra enjoys fitness, golfing, and spending time with her two teenage sons and friends.

Musio Chavez

Provisionally Licensed Attorney SP011000

Musio Chavez serves as a committed Provisionally Licensed Attorney SP011000 at Arellano Law Firm, PC, bringing a wealth of diverse legal experience to the team. A native Oregonian and the proud son of immigrants, Mr. Chavez possesses a unique and profound understanding of the challenges and resilience required for legal successes.

Mr. Chavez holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Entrepreneurship from Oregon State University.

Following his passion for law, he was admitted to Concordia University School of Law, where he excelled academically and actively engaged in the Immigration Law Clinic. Here, he notably secured asylum for numerous clients, showcasing his dedication and prowess in immigration law. His leadership was further evident through his role as Class Delegate via the Student Bar Association.

At Concordia, Mr. Chavez’s academic endeavors extended to Contract Law and he actively participated in both Business and Contracts Practicums. These experiences have equipped him with a robust legal foundation and the versatile skills essential for navigating complex legal challenges.

Before joining Arellano Law Firm, PC, Mr. Chavez gained valuable experience managing the legal needs of professional combat athletes, such as boxers. He successfully negotiated improved pay, secured insurance, and attained sponsorships, enabling athletes to focus on their performance. This diverse professional background has honed Mr. Chavez’s negotiation skills and ability to handle various legal situations.

Mr. Chavez has been accepted into Oregon’s Provisional License Program, affording him the opportunity to practice law under the meticulous supervision of attorney Higinio (Neo) Arellano. Through this program, he diligently works towards fulfilling the requirements for admission to the Oregon State Bar while his work undergoes thorough review, ensuring high-quality legal assistance to clients.

His commitment to a broad spectrum of legal areas, including personal injury, immigration, business law, and litigation, ensures that Mr. Chavez brings a comprehensive and empathetic approach to each client’s unique legal situation. His diverse background and steadfast dedication to legal excellence make him a vital asset to Arellano Law Firm, PC, and a reliable advocate for all clients.

Musio Chavez’s diverse expertise and personal dedication reflect his unwavering commitment to providing exemplary legal services, rooted in a deep understanding of the legal landscape and the challenges faced by his clients.

Arturo Benavidez

Outside Counsel

Arturo Benavidez is his own independent attorney, operates his own separate immigration law firm, and is licensed to practice law in the state of California. He is a decorated attorney who focuses his practice in immigration law and personal injury. Mr. Benavidez has dedicated his practice to helping people and small businesses in Northern California since 2006.

Arturo Benavidez is a California native and son of immigrants. He understands the hard work and dedication people have when migrating to this country.

It is for this reason, that Mr. Benavidez works hard in helping people with their legal problems.

Mr. Benavidez attended CSU Chico, where he earned his BA degree in Political Studies and an option in legal studies. He graduated with highest honors and was accepted to the Sandra Day O’Conner College of Law at Arizona State University. During his time at ASU Law, he was awarded a prestigious fellowship to work with the Florence Immigrants and Refugee Rights Project.

Upon graduation in 2005 he moved back to Northern California where he currently runs his law practice in Sacramento. Arturo enjoys running, boxing, camping and, basically all outdoor activities.

RJ Tonneson

Law Clerk

RJ Tonneson is a Law Clerk at Arellano Law Firm and is currently advancing his legal education through the evening program at Lewis and Clark Law School. His unique background in marketing strategy enriches his perspective on law, allowing RJ to leverage strong skills in analysis, communication, and strategic planning to enhance the firm’s litigation practices.

Before joining Arellano Law Firm, RJ excelled as a Marketing Strategist, mastering project management, market analysis, and client relations. This multifaceted experience equips RJ with a deep understanding of the business side of legal practice, empowering him to address client needs with a nuanced, business-oriented approach. His insights into market dynamics are particularly beneficial in cases involving complex commercial litigation, where an understanding of business strategy can be crucial.

RJ actively supports the firm’s litigation team, contributing significantly to case preparation, research, and strategy development. His analytical skills and strategic mindset are instrumental in crafting compelling arguments and identifying key issues, making him a vital asset in high-stakes litigation.

Outside of his professional life, RJ is an avid mountain biker and ceramics enthusiast. These passions not only provide a well-rounded and balanced lifestyle but also foster a disciplined and focused mindset beneficial for rigorous legal studies and demanding professional responsibilities.

At Arellano Law Firm, RJ embodies a commitment to excellence and integrity. He strives to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and efficiency in all his work, driven by a dedication to personal growth and client success. RJ‘s dynamic background and proactive approach make him an invaluable team member, ready to contribute to the firm’s mission and support its clients effectively in both litigation and broader legal services.

Abraham Barajas

Law Clerk

Abraham was born in Mexico and moved to Oregon at a young age. He is a graduate of the University of Portland’s Business School and earned his Juris Doctor from Willamette University College of Law. Abraham brings extensive experience in sales, including high-ticket transactions, and finds genuine fulfillment in closing deals where both parties walk away satisfied.

His background in business and negotiation strengthens his approach to legal work, where he focuses on practical and client-centered solutions.

Abraham is passionate about helping others reach their full business potential. In his free time, he enjoys raising cattle, trying new restaurants throughout the Pacific Northwest, and spending quality time with family.

Languages: English and Spanish

Edward Arellano

Firm Administrator

Coming Soon!

Elizabeth Arellano

Sr. Litigation Paralegal

Coming Soon!

Maria Nava

Paralegal

Maria Nava brings a unique blend of experience, dedication, and a heartfelt commitment to the legal profession, with an impressive career spanning over 15 years. Born in Jalisco, Mexico, and raised in Oregon, Maria’s journey is a testament to her resilience and determination. She graduated from local schools, where she laid a strong educational foundation that has supported her professional endeavors.

Maria’s career in the legal field began in 2008. Since then, she has accumulated valuable experience working in three different law firms.

In 2022, she joined the Arellano Law Firm PC as a paralegal, where she has been instrumental in providing comprehensive support to clients, guiding them meticulously through the legal process up to the point of litigation. Maria finds profound satisfaction in assisting those who often feel voiceless, ensuring they receive the attention and justice they deserve.

One of Maria’s most rewarding roles outside of her legal career was working with special needs children, including those with Autism, blindness, and Down syndrome. This experience deepened her empathy and honed her advocacy skills, traits that she brings into her paralegal work every day.

Maria has been married for nearly 30 years and is a proud mother of two children. Alongside her husband, she has dedicated over three decades to volunteer work within the Catholic Church, coordinating choirs in both Illinois and Oregon. This long-term commitment highlights her dedication to community service and her passion for bringing people together through music.

In her personal life, Maria enjoys spending quality time with her family, dancing, cooking, and hosting friendly gatherings. These activities not only bring her joy but also enhance her ability to connect with clients on a personal level, making her support rich with understanding and compassion.

Maria Nava is an invaluable member of the Arellano Law Firm PC, known for her thorough assistance and unwavering commitment to each client’s case. Her deep-seated passion for helping others, along with her extensive experience, makes her an exceptional paralegal and a cherished asset to the firm.

Ines Yanes

Legal Assistant

Ines Yanes is a dedicated and self-driven legal assistant at Arellano Law Firm PC, having joined our team in 2024. With a rich background in bilingual legal support, policy coordination, and client care, Ines brings a wealth of experience and a passion for advocacy to our firm. Ines wishes to pursue law school one day.

In her role, Ines expertly creates and maintains case files. She provides vital translation services for Spanish-speaking clients.

Ines proficiently manages legal support for four attorneys, ensuring seamless operations within the firm.

Ines’s background underscores her dedication to the legal field and highlights her strong organizational skills, client service, and advocacy. Her commitment to excellence and her ability to manage multiple responsibilities with competence make her an invaluable member of our team. We are excited to see her grow her legal career and Arellano Law Firm PC stands firmly by her side.

Yarime Hernández Robles

Paralegal

Yarime Hernández Robles was born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and is a dedicated attorney specializing in intellectual and industrial property law. She holds a law degree from the Escuela Libre de Derecho de Puebla, where she earned her professional title through a thesis. She later completed a Master’s Degree in International Trade Law and Intellectual Property at the University of La Rioja, also graduating with a thesis focused on swap contracts as adhesion contracts.

Throughout her career, Yarime has contributed to the editing and drafting of annotated constitutions, and has worked extensively on the application of conventionality control in human rights matters, in line with the standards of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights.

She has collaborated with private law firms focused on the protection of intellectual creations and inventions, with a particular emphasis on the analysis and safeguarding of intangible assets. Additionally, she has worked with various government institutions at both the state and federal levels, including the Mexican Youth Institute (Instituto Mexicano de la Juventud), where she participated in the development of the “Tarjeta Joven” program — an initiative aimed at protecting the intellectual and legal rights of young people in Mexico.

Outside of her professional life, Yarime is passionate about Hispanic-American literature, enjoys solving sudoku puzzles and jigsaw puzzles, and finds joy in nature and rainy days. She cherishes spending time outdoors with her family and her beloved dog, Alfa.

Nereyda Sanez

Executive Assistant of Operations and Administration

Nereyda Sanez joined Arellano Law Firm PC as the Executive Assistant of Operations and Administration. Originally from Sonora, Mexico, Nereyda holds a degree in Business Administration with a specialization in business management.

With a focus on efficiency and organization, Nereyda brings to the firm a robust skill set in administrative support and operations management.

At Arellano Law Firm PC, Nereyda undertakes a variety of key responsibilities, including:

Managing day-to-day administrative operations to ensure the smooth functioning of the firm.
Coordinating schedules, communications, and logistics to support the legal team’s workflow.
Assisting in the development and implementation of operational policies and procedures.
Overseeing client relations to maintain and enhance service quality.
Preparing and reviewing documents to facilitate efficient case management.
Supporting financial management activities such as budgeting and billing processes.
Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards in administrative practices.

In her free time, Nereyda enjoys taking walks, immersing herself in music and podcasts, and continuously learning new things to expand her horizons. Nereyda brings enthusiasm for business management and operations to Arellano Law Firm PC and looks forward to contributing to the firm’s success and growth.

Isla Garcia

Paralegal

Born in Guadalajara and raised in Villa Corona, Jalisco, Isla Garcia brings a distinguished blend of professionalism and integrity to her role as a paralegal at Arellano Law Firm PC. She earned her Law degree from the University of Guadalajara and embarked on her legal career in 2021. Throughout her career, Isla has accumulated valuable experience in various areas including Intellectual Property, Contract Law, Real Estate Transactions, Estate Planning, and Constitutional (Amparo) Litigation.

Isla’s background is complemented by a commitment to excellence in legal research and advocacy, enabling her to provide adept support in complex legal matters. Her nuanced understanding of legal intricacies enriches her contributions to the firm’s clients and cases.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Isla cherishes quality time with her family and her beloved pet, Nala. Her passions extend to traveling, where she explores new cultures, and she enjoys capturing the world through her photography. She is also deeply interested in art and finds joy in cooking, weaving creativity into her everyday life.

Isla is excited to bring her diverse expertise and vibrant spirit to Arellano Law Firm PC, where she looks forward to contributing to the firm’s legacy of legal excellence.

Our Team

Higinio ("Neo") Arellano

Steven Zimmerman

Alejandra G. Klein

Ryan Settles

Musio Chavez

Arturo Benavidez

RJ Tonneson

Abraham Barajas, JD

Edward Arellano

Elizabeth Arellano

Maria Nava

Ines Yanes

Yarime Hernández Robles

Nereyda Sanez

Isla Garcia

Sherri Stauffer

Nereyda Sanez

Ines Yanes

Higinio ("Neo") Arellano

Steven Zimmerman

Alejandra G. Klein

Ryan Settles

Musio Chavez

Arturo Benavidez

RJ Tonneson

Abraham Barajas, JD

Edward Arellano

Elizabeth Arellano

Maria Nava

Ines Yanes

Yarime Hernández Robles

Nereyda Sanez

Isla Garcia

Sherri Stauffer

Nereyda Sanez

Ines Yanes

Coming Soon!

Coming Soon!