About Us
President & Founding Attorney
Gary Berkovich
Gary Berkovich is the president and founding member of GBLaw. Mr. Berkovich earned his Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies from the University of La Verne in 1994. Thereafter, he graduated with honors from Loyola Law School in 1997, achieving a final G.P.A. within the top 15% of his class. During law school, Mr. Berkovich participated in the Scott Moot Court Competition, was a member of the St. Thomas More Law Honor Society, and earned American Jurisprudence awards in Legal Writing, Torts, and Federal Income Taxation.
Mr. Berkovich later clerked for the Legal Aid Foundation, the Honorable Barry Russell, Bankruptcy Judge, Bet Tzedek Legal Services, and the Federal Trade Commission. Prior to starting his own firm, Mr. Berkovich worked for the Law Offices of Bremer Whyte Brown & O’Meara LLP, concentrating on all aspects of insurance defense litigation. Prior to working with Bremer Whyte Brown & O’Meara LLP, Mr. Berkovich worked at the Law Offices of Tharpe & Howell, focusing on the defense of personal injury actions.
Mr. Berkovich is happily married and has two wonderful daughters and a cherished granddaughter whom he adores. During his free time, Mr. Berkovich enjoys spending time with his family, staying active in the community, and maintaining a physically active lifestyle.
- 1997, California and U.S. District Court, Central District of California
- Loyola Law School, J.D.
- State Bar of California
- Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles
Director of Operations
Benjamin Arce
Benjamin Arce started his legal career in 2006 when he joined GBLaw as one of the firm’s first paralegals when it opened its doors in the San Fernando Valley. As the lead paralegal at the time, he quickly proved to be a valuable asset to the firm through his ability to multitask, effectively manage cases, and provide the highest level of support and solutions to both clients and attorneys alike.
In 2010, Mr. Arce took a short leave to pursue his education and accept a position with a nationally acclaimed defense law firm, where he was trained by some of the industry’s top defense attorneys. He assisted in handling complex litigation matters, insurance claims, and various aspects of defense work. In 2016, Mr. Arce returned to GBLaw as the Director of Operations and quickly applied his extensive training and experience to managing personal injury cases and supporting clients throughout the legal process. Mr. Arce has dedicated his career to the personal injury field, handling matters involving automobile accidents, dog bites, product liability, habitability claims, insurance coverage disputes, slip and falls, uninsured motorists, wrongful death, and many other types of claims.
Mr. Arce attended California State University, Northridge, where he studied Business Law and Deaf Studies. In addition, he earned a degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Phoenix. Outside of work, Mr. Arce enjoys spending time in nature, being active in the community, and participating in sports such as softball, baseball, and volleyball.
Case Manager
Crystal Estrada
Crystal Estrada is a Case Manager who specializes in Personal Injury, Small Claims and Lemon Law cases. She is bilingual in both Spanish and English. She is very dedicated to helping her clients obtain the best possible results. She likes learning more and more about how insurance companies evaluate every person’s claim so that she can offer customized plans to help each client’s case. Her background education includes American Career College.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family and going to the beach.
Case Manager
Yolanda Pinon
Yolanda has been working in the personal injury field for more than 20 years. She is bilingual in Spanish and English. She is very dedicated to helping her clients obtain the best possible result. She likes learning more and more about how insurance companies evaluate every person’s claim so that she can offer customized plans to help each client’s case. Her background education includes Los Angeles Mission College.
In her spare time, she likes to coupon.
Senior Case Manager / Complex Cases
Teresa Ramos
Teresa Ramos is an experienced Case Manager with more than sixteen years of experience assisting clients in personal injury matters. Her legal background also includes immigration and family law, giving her a diverse perspective when working with individuals and families facing difficult situations.
Known for her compassion, dedication, and strong advocacy skills, Teresa treats every client with the same care and respect she would expect for her own family. She is committed to helping clients navigate the legal process and pursue the best possible resolution for their case.
When she is not working, Teresa enjoys supporting animal rescue organizations, visiting museums, exploring art, and spending time with friends and family.
Case Manager
Michelle Avelar
Michelle Avelar joined The Law Offices of Gary Berkovich in 2024 as an Intake Coordinator. Through her dedication, strong work ethic, and commitment to client service, she was promoted to Case Manager in 2025. In her current role, Michelle works closely with clients throughout the personal injury process, helping ensure their cases are handled with care, compassion, and attention to detail.
Before joining the legal field, Michelle spent more than 10 years working in the medical field. Her healthcare background provides her with valuable insight into medical records, treatment documentation, and patient care, allowing her to effectively support both clients and attorneys.
Michelle is currently pursuing her Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies and Paralegal Certificate at West Los Angeles College through its ABA-approved Paralegal Studies Program. She is passionate about continuing her legal education and has the long-term goal of attending law school and becoming an attorney.
Outside of the office, Michelle enjoys exploring new places, creating beauty and educational content on social media, and expressing her creativity through makeup artistry. She has worked as a freelance makeup artist specializing in bridal makeup and enjoys helping clients look and feel their best on their special day. In her free time, she continues to expand her knowledge of both the legal profession and the beauty industry while pursuing her ultimate goal of a career in law.
Case Manager
Linda Lopez
Linda Lopez is a Case Manager with more than seven years of experience in the personal injury field. She is known for her attention to detail, bilingual communication skills, and commitment to helping clients navigate their claims with confidence and peace of mind.
Linda works closely with clients throughout the recovery process, ensuring they receive consistent communication and support. Her compassionate approach and dedication to service help create a positive experience for every client she assists.
Outside of the office, Linda is actively involved in her local school community and enjoys supporting her daughter’s softball team and spending time with family.
Case Manager
Miguel Cotto
Miguel Cotto is a dedicated Case Manager at GBLaw who brings valuable international legal experience to the firm. Licensed as an attorney in El Salvador, he previously served as a prosecutor and spent years advocating for victims and helping individuals navigate complex legal matters.
Today, Miguel applies that same passion and commitment to assisting injured clients throughout the personal injury process. He works closely with clients to ensure they understand their rights, stay informed about their cases, and receive the support needed to pursue the best possible outcome. His legal background, professionalism, and client-focused approach make him a valued member of the GBLaw team.
Outside of the office, Miguel enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with his family. He is happily married and the proud father of a beautiful baby girl, Miranda, who brings immense joy to his life. As both a devoted family man and dedicated legal professional, Miguel strives to bring the same care and commitment to his clients that he brings to those closest to him.
Medical Records Clerk and Lien Negotiator
Angie Garcia
Angie Garcia serves as GBLaw’s Medical Records Clerk and Lien Negotiator, playing an essential role in both case development and resolution. She is responsible for obtaining, organizing, and maintaining critical medical documentation with accuracy, efficiency, and confidentiality, ensuring that each case is supported by thorough and well-documented records.
In addition to managing medical records, Angie works closely with healthcare providers and lienholders to negotiate and resolve medical liens on behalf of clients. Her attention to detail, strong communication skills, and commitment to achieving favorable outcomes help maximize client recoveries while keeping cases moving efficiently toward resolution. Known for her professionalism and dedication, Angie is a vital member of the GBLaw team and an important advocate for the clients she serves.
Outside of work, Angie enjoys discovering new restaurants, spending quality time with her two sons, and relaxing with a good movie.
Administrative Assistant
Edith Montes
Edith Montes serves as an Administrative Assistant at GBLaw, where she provides essential support to both clients and staff to help ensure the firm operates efficiently. Known for her professionalism, organization, and positive attitude, Edith assists with day-to-day administrative matters while helping clients feel welcomed and supported throughout their legal journey.
Dedicated to delivering exceptional client service, Edith takes pride in maintaining clear communication, staying organized, and helping the team provide a smooth experience for every client. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellence make her a valuable part of the GBLaw team.
Outside of the office, Edith enjoys spending quality time with her newborn child and creating lasting memories with her family. She also loves visiting local cafés, trying new coffee shops, and taking time to relax and recharge while enjoying the unique atmosphere each café has to offer.
Intake Specialist
Hellen Alarcon
Hellen Alarcon is an integral part of the GBLaw team and serves as the firm’s Intake Specialist. As one of the first points of contact for prospective clients, she is responsible for coordinating all firm intakes and ensuring that each client receives exceptional service from the very beginning of their case.
Known for her professionalism, compassion, and attention to detail, Hellen excels at guiding clients through the intake process while gathering the critical information needed to help move cases forward. Her strong communication skills and commitment to client care help create a seamless and supportive experience during what is often a challenging time for those seeking legal assistance.
Bilingual in English and Spanish, Hellen is dedicated to serving the community and helping clients feel informed, supported, and confident throughout the onboarding process. Her leadership within the intake department and commitment to excellence have made her a valuable member of the GBLaw team.
Legal Assistant & Small Claims Coordinator
Monica De Cotto
Monica De Cotto is the newest addition to the GBLaw team, bringing with her a strong legal background and extensive knowledge gained through her legal studies in El Salvador. Her legal education, combined with her dedication to helping others, allows her to provide valuable support to both clients and attorneys throughout the litigation process.
As the firm’s Small Claims Coordinator, Monica oversees the Small Claims Department and assists with the management of litigation matters. She also serves as a Legal Assistant, helping with case preparation, document organization, client communication, and ongoing case support. Her strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence make her an important asset to the firm’s litigation team.
Monica is passionate about helping clients navigate the legal process and works diligently to ensure that every case receives the attention and care it deserves. Her professionalism, work ethic, and legal knowledge have already made a positive impact on the firm and the clients she serves.
Outside of the office, Monica enjoys spending quality time with her family and her beautiful daughter, Miranda. She values creating meaningful memories with her loved ones and appreciates the balance that family brings to her professional life.
Disclaimer: Attorney and staff biographies are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of any legal matter.
Client Intake Coordinator
Michelle Avelar
Michelle Avelar joined our personal injury law firm at the beginning of 2024, bringing her keen attention to detail, bilingual skills, and a strong background in the medical field. Her experience allows her to guide injured clients through the initial stages of their claims with both knowledge and compassion. Dedicated to providing exceptional service, Michelle ensures that every client feels heard and supported from the very first interaction.
Beyond her professional expertise, Michelle is a creative at heart. She enjoys expressing herself through art and music and is also a skilled makeup artist by trade. Her diverse talents and empathetic nature make her an invaluable part of our team.
Administrative Assistant
Nolan Carranza Blanco
Nolan Carranza Blanco is the newest addition to our team as an Administrative Assistant. With a sharp attention to detail and a strong academic background, she holds an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration and Massage Therapy. Her intelligence and efficiency help keep our firm running smoothly, ensuring clients receive the support they need.
Outside of work, Nolan enjoys spending time in the kitchen, cooking and indulging in great food. Her passion for organization and hospitality makes her a valuable asset to both our team and the clients we serve.
Administrative Support
Evelyn Pelayo
Mrs. Pelayo joins GBLaw as the newest addition serving as the firm’s Administrative Assistant. Mrs. Pelayo has studied Child Development at the Los Angeles Valley College which gives her keen skills in helping clients navigate various aspects of their cases with the firm. Mrs. Pelayo is a mother of 2 and loves to spend time with her children and husband.
Administrative Support
Rosie Padilla
Rosie joined the team in 2019 as a receptionist. She now works in the area of medical records and provides administrative support for the management team. Her previous experience as a receptionist has polished her communication skills and prepared her to excel in her position as the firm’s medical records clerk.
In her free time, Rosie enjoys nature, traveling, and sightseeing.
Medical Records Clerk
Pablo Carcamo
Pablo is one of the newest members to join GBLaw. Pablo graduated from California State University Northridge with a BA in Criminology and Justice Studies in 2020. He comes with a history of “customer service” based experience that helps him understand the necessities of listening to each client’s concerns and has proven himself to be an excellent communicator to meet those needs. Pablo’s interests in personal injury and law enforcement have allowed him to quickly adapt his skill sets and apply them to this personal injury firm.
Outside of work, Pablo appreciates the importance of balance in his life which allows him to work effectively and efficiently. In his spare time, Pablo loves to exercise, play sports, and spend time with his family and friends. He appreciates music, and loves to read.