Costa Mesa partner Joseph Chairez was named one of the "Top Five Litigators" in Orange County, CA, in a recent survey by OCMetro magazine.
The evaluation and rating method considered the lawyers' years in practice, professional achievements and industry recognition. The profile of Chairez described him as a "philanthropic litigator" who "has dedicated numerous hours to the advancement of his profession." Chairez has previously served in various bar leadership positions, including past presidencies at the Orange County Bar Association, Hispanic Bar Association and Celtic Bar Association, according to the profile.
The cause which is "near and dear to his heart," according to the article, is his position as a board member of the El Viento Foundation. The organization is an educational pipeline that guides underprivileged kids toward opportunities for success in life as responsible citizens through a long-term relationship based on leadership, mutual trust and respect, teamwork, learning and skills building. Chairez is "putting his money where his mouth is," according to the article, as on December 20 he begins a special philanthropic effort, "Climb for Our Kids," which includes a 10-day journey to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa.
"Our goal is aimed at teaching kids how to set goals, make commitments and plans to attain those goals," said Chairez. "Additionally, this charity climb seeks to raise $100,000 for $5 per foot to support El Viento's efforts in Orange County." Click for more information on El Viento or to read the full OCMetro profile of Chairez from the El Viento website.
Pictured below, Chairez (far left/foreground) and (l to r) Denver Office partner Steve Moore, Costa Mesa Office associates Brad Hakala, Sara Poster and Emily Frank, and paralegal Eva Divok.