Maria joined Zuma Law in December 2016. As office manager, Maria is in charge of administration and reception at Zuma Law. Prior to joining the team, Maria was the front manager at a law office in Waukegan from 2013-2016.

As a mother of three, and an immigrant herself, Maria knows the sacrifices and dangers our clients face in order to give their children a better future. She understands the importance of immigration law in keeping families together in the United State, and has been helping the community achieve that goal for eight years.

Aura is a lawyer graduate from the Catholic University of Colombia. She currently serves as a dynamic Legal Assistant at Zuma Law, where she has been part of the team for over a year and a half. Aura brings a fresh perspective and a strong foundation of legal knowledge to the firm.

Fluent in both English and Spanish, Aura supports cases involving asylum, work permits, DACA, TPS, and removal defense. Her academic background and dedication to the legal field reflect her commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of clients.

Aura upholds the core values of the legal profession: integrity, empathy, responsibility, and a strong commitment to justice. She is a promising addition to the team and a testament to Zuma Law's commitment to investing in emerging legal talent. Always dedicated to helping those in need, Aura exemplifies the firm’s values of service, professionalism, and excellence.

Joining Zuma Law in 2023, Fatima brings a fresh perspective and a strong commitment to her future in immigration law. In the fall of 2025, she will attend UIC to finish her education in Political Science. Enthralled by the supportive community within the office, Fatima is passionate about contributing to the immigration field. Recognizing the ongoing learning process, she embraces every opportunity to grow, valuing insights from colleagues and remaining open to constructive criticism. Proficient in both English and Spanish, Fatima is a valuable asset to Zuma Law, embodying the spirit of continuous improvement and dedication to her evolving role.

Allie is a dedicated Legal Assistant at Zuma Law since May 2017, holding a double major in Political Science and Spanish from Lake Forest College. Specializing in removal defense, Allie finds profound satisfaction in guiding clients through the intricate immigration process. As a removal defense team member, she sees collaborating closely with clients and their families not just as a responsibility but as a privilege. Together, they strive for the best outcomes in court, providing invaluable support during crucial periods in clients' lives. Allie's impactful efforts reflect in the fulfillment and meaning she finds each day at Zuma Law, shaping a better life for individuals and families seeking refuge.

Boanna Pacheco, a dedicated Legal Assistant, holds a Bachelor's degree in International Business from Anáhuac University - Campus Cancun, Mexico, and Coventry University in the United Kingdom. Currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Law and International Relations at the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo, she is expected to graduate in November 2025. Specializing in U Visa and VAWA cases, Boanna guides clients through the immigration process, managing document requirements and providing Spanish-to-English translations for USCIS submissions. With a passion for helping families legally reunite in the USA, she joined Zuma Law in August 2022, contributing to a supportive environment that values client satisfaction and success. Boanna is fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Cindy is a compassionate Paralegal Assistant at Zuma for three years, specializing in the Adjustment of Status department. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology from Loyola University Chicago, she aspires to attend Law School, focusing on immigration and family law. Fluent in Spanish and English, Cindy creates a safe space for individuals navigating green card applications in the U.S. Her journey is rooted in personal experience, growing up in an immigrant household. Having played a crucial role in her father's immigration journey, Cindy is dedicated to helping deserving individuals, delivering life-changing news, and continuing her mission in honor of her late father.

Ana, a dedicated Legal Assistant at Zuma Law, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice/Pre-Law from Carthage College and an Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies from CLC. Fluent in English and Spanish, she has been with Zuma since 2019, contributing to various applications and serving as Damian's translator. Ana's journey in immigration law began after high school when she worked at a non-profit, aiding immigrants in applying for citizenship. Her passion led her to volunteer as a Citizenship Instructor. Now at Zuma Law, Ana assists clients in Naturalization, DACA, and work permit applications, drawing from her personal connection to immigration – her father naturalized just 20 days before her birth.

Liz is a dedicated Legal Assistant at Zuma with a hands-on approach to case management. At the firm, Liz specializes in opening new cases, including Family and Spousal petitions, Work permit applications, and DACA renewal applications. Liz thrives in the dynamic legal environment, driven by her commitment to ongoing learning and adaptability. Fluent in both Spanish and English, she plays a crucial role in facilitating communication with clients from diverse backgrounds. Liz embodies the spirit of continuous improvement, embracing the challenges of the legal field with enthusiasm and dedication.

Cecilia, brings passion and dedication to the Zuma team as she navigates the intricacies of Freedom of Information Act requests. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Cecilia seamlessly communicates with diverse clients, and she enjoys helping others. Her commitment to continuous learning enhances her ability to provide valuable assistance, making her a vital asset in the pursuit of legal transparency and client satisfaction at Zuma.

Anabel is the Human Resources professional at Zuma, commenced her role in 2023, contributing to the firm's organizational dynamics. With prior experience as an Office Manager at Benchmark Aspen Accounting firm, she seamlessly transitions her skills to enhance Zuma's workplace efficiency. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Anabel facilitates effective communication in the diverse Zuma team. Her wealth of experience in office management positions her as a valuable asset in human resources, fostering a positive and productive work environment for the entire Zuma team.

Margarita is the Reception Manager at Zuma with over 15 years of experience in customer service. Passionate about working with new people every day, she takes pleasure in creating and nurturing client relationships. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Margarita brings a warm and welcoming presence to the front desk, ensuring a positive experience for everyone who walks through the doors of Zuma. Her extensive skills in customer service make her an invaluable asset, and her dedication to fostering connections reflects in the excellent client relations she continues to build.

Cris is the diligent File Clerk at Zuma Law, currently pursuing a business degree. Since joining in July 2023, he meticulously organizes files, facilitates mail processes, and ensures seamless communication with USCIS. Cristofer's journey began as an apprentice in his dad's plumbing company, transitioning to Zuma Law through a family connection. Grateful for the opportunity to work with cool bosses like Jeff and Damian, Cristofer finds joy in the daily learning experiences about immigration. His role in maintaining the organization's efficiency reflects his commitment to contributing to the firm's success. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Cristofer adds value to Zuma Law's dynamic team.

Jazmin is a driven Legal Assistant at Zuma Law. Equipped with a Bachelor's in Politics and Spanish from Lake Forest College (December 2022), she's currently pursuing her legal journey at Chicago Kent Law School, set to graduate in May 2026. Jazmin has dedicated one year to Zuma, balancing her studies with hands-on work. During school breaks, she focuses on VAWA cases, and while in school, she assists with waiver affidavits. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Jazmin's keen interest in immigration law has found a home at Zuma, providing her with a diverse range of cases and valuable experience in the field.

Arianna joined Zuma in June 2025 and works closely with attorney Phil Schlichting on immigration, family, and personal injury cases. She works on U Visas, Asylum, SIJS, and Adjustment of Status matters, often serving as the first point of contact for clients. Arianna handles everything from form preparation and client meetings to managing calls. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, Law & Justice with a minor in Logic, Argumentation, and Writing. As the daughter of Colombian immigrants, she brings passion and lived experience to her work. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Arianna is an aspiring attorney committed to making a difference in a system that impacts her community.

Mariela joined Zuma in 2023 and serves as a paralegal on the firm’s removal defense team. A licensed attorney in Ecuador, she holds a Law degree from a university in Ecuador and a Master’s in International Law from a university in Spain. Her previous experience includes work with the Constitutional Court of Ecuador, an international law firm in Spain, and various legal roles in her home country.

At Zuma, Mariela focuses on drafting motions, legal briefs, and indexes for individual hearings, conducting legal research, and translating case materials. Fluent in English and Spanish, she brings a deep commitment to justice and a passion for immigration law. Mariela values the collaborative, supportive environment at Zuma and is driven by the opportunity to make a real impact in the lives of the clients she serves.

Jazmin Padilla is a paralegal at Zuma, where she focuses on preparing complex immigration waiver applications, including I-601, I-601A, and I-212. With a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Government from Northern Illinois University, Jazmin combines legal knowledge with a deep commitment to client care. She works closely with attorneys and clients to build strong, evidence-based cases—drafting legal arguments, compiling documentation, and ensuring timely and accurate USCIS filings. Bilingual in Spanish and English, Jazmin is passionate about helping families overcome immigration barriers. She finds purpose in the connections she builds with clients and is driven by the impact her work has on their lives.

Ariella Bucio joined the Zuma team in 2025 and serves as a Legal Assistant on the U Visa team. She plays a key role in supporting clients through the U Visa and Adjustment of Status process—drafting affidavits, translating documents, interpreting calls, meeting with clients, and preparing application forms. Ariella holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Politics with a minor in Latino/a Studies from The Pennsylvania State University.

Before joining Zuma, Ariella worked on civic engagement initiatives around her university, helping register students to vote. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she brings compassion, clarity, and cultural insight to every client interaction. Ariella values the opportunity to walk alongside individuals navigating complex immigration challenges and finds deep meaning in building connections with the clients she serves.

Kassandra Rodriguez joined Zuma in 2025 and serves as a Legal Assistant, supporting clients with a variety of immigration applications including Naturalization (N-400), Parole in Place and Advance Parole (I-131), DACA renewals, and Green Card renewals. She is a 2024 graduate of Haverford College, where she majored in Political Science and minored in Psychology.

Prior to Zuma, Kassandra gained legal experience at The Law Offices of Brandi McLaughlin, LLC. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she values the opportunity to connect with clients and deepen her knowledge of immigration law. With plans to attend law school in the future, Kassandra is passionate about advocacy and committed to helping individuals navigate the path to legal status.

Kendy Villa is a Paralegal and Waiver Supervisor at Zuma, where she specializes in preparing complex immigration waivers, including I-601A, I-601, and I-212 applications. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from National Louis University and brings over a year of experience in immigration law.
Before joining Zuma, Kendy worked at a family law firm, where she developed a strong foundation in client advocacy and case management. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Kendy is passionate about helping individuals with backgrounds similar to her own. She finds deep fulfillment in knowing that her work makes a lasting impact on the lives of clients and their families.

Michelle Hernandez joined Zuma in early 2025 and works as a Legal Assistant supporting attorney Mary Mamoka. She assists with a wide range of immigration and family-based cases, including Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), Adjustment of Status, U Visa, VAWA, Naturalization, and custody or guardianship matters.

Michelle is a 2024 graduate of Hope College, where she studied Political Science and Spanish. Prior to joining Zuma, she gained experience at Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates in Holland, Michigan. A first-generation Latina and bilingual in English and Spanish, Michelle is passionate about serving the immigrant community. She finds great purpose in offering guidance, support, and solutions to individuals and families navigating the complexities of immigration law.

Karla joined the Zuma team in early 2025 as a Legal Assistant supporting the U Visa team. She meets directly with clients, gathers case information, and prepares U Visa applications for attorney review and submission. Karla holds both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice.
With a strong interest in victim advocacy and immigration law, Karla brings compassion and attention to detail to every case. Fluent in English and Spanish, she values the meaningful connections she builds with clients and is driven by the opportunity to support individuals navigating the legal system. Karla finds fulfillment in knowing that her work plays a role in helping people seek safety, stability, and a future in the United States.

Daniela Espinoza is a Legal Assistant at Zuma. She earned her Juris Doctor, cum laude, from Michigan State University College of Law, where she attended on a full scholarship and was a Dean’s List recipient in multiple semesters. At Michigan State, she was a student tax attorney for two semesters at the school's Low-Income Tax Clinic. Daniela holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Sociolegal Studies from Loyola University Chicago, where she competed nationally in Mock Trial and served in student government.

Her legal experience includes serving as a summer associate at Miller Canfield in Detroit, working on labor and employment matters and participating in pro bono initiatives, and clerking at Ramsey Law in Des Moines, where she assisted with trial preparation and family law cases. Earlier in her career, Daniela interned with Senator Dick Durbin’s office and with the Hispanic American Community Education & Services organization.

Born in Mexico and the first in her family to pursue higher education, Daniela is fluent in Spanish and English. Outside of work, she enjoys reading and building LEGO sets.