No matter what type of legal situation you're facing, having the right attorney by your side can make all the difference. Cerda Legal is dedicated to offering personalized legal services that will always place your needs first. We focus on workers compensation law. Your local attorney will fight by your side to help you get the compensation you deserve. We're proud to support Spanish-speaking communities in Denver, CO and throughout the state. Call us today to schedule a consultation. Se habla español.
Adán Cerda is a bilingual attorney who has spent over 15 years immersed in trial work and advocacy. His passion for litigation began during law school, where he externed with the District Attorney’s Office in Philadelphia, trying over 50 criminal bench trials and handling hundreds of cases. Since then, Adán has built a career rooted in
Adán Cerda is a bilingual attorney who has spent over 15 years immersed in trial work and advocacy. His passion for litigation began during law school, where he externed with the District Attorney’s Office in Philadelphia, trying over 50 criminal bench trials and handling hundreds of cases. Since then, Adán has built a career rooted in service, working at firms that consistently represent injured individuals navigating legal systems. From southern Colorado through Denver and Grand Junction to his courtroom experience and client-centered approach reflect a deep commitment to justice and dignity.
Born in Los Angeles and raised in Michoacán, Mexico, Adán’s upbringing was shaped by the strength and resilience of his single-parent mother. Her example instilled in him the values of discipline, sincerity, and determination—principles that continue to guide his work and relationships today. His bilingualism is not just a skill, but a bridge to communities often underserved and overlooked.
In a field devoted to the complexities of labor and injury, Adán brings a personal understanding of what it means to work hard. His journey from real estate to law, from volunteerism to trial advocacy, is a testament to the dignity of effort. He believes that every client’s story is a reflection of work, physical, emotional, and economic and he meets each case with the same grit and perseverance that shaped his own path.
Adán earned his degree in Economics from Arizona State University and his law degree from the Thomas R. Kline School of Law in Philadelphia. His volunteer work spans over 250 hours and includes mentoring youth, co-authoring a human rights report in Haiti, and supporting families through tax and legal services. These experiences reflect his belief that law is not just a profession—it’s a platform for impact. Outside the office, Adán finds joy in movement and camaraderie. He enjoys disc golf and football, casually golfs, and embraces the same focus and strategy on the field that he brings to the profession.
Mr. Cairns serves as Special Counsel at Adan Cerda & Associates, LLC, bringing over four decades of distinguished legal experience to the firm. Licensed to practice in Colorado since 1982, his career has been defined by a deep commitment to workers’ compensation and employment law, with a focus on representing injured workers in litigati
Mr. Cairns serves as Special Counsel at Adan Cerda & Associates, LLC, bringing over four decades of distinguished legal experience to the firm. Licensed to practice in Colorado since 1982, his career has been defined by a deep commitment to workers’ compensation and employment law, with a focus on representing injured workers in litigation. Throughout his career, he has handled more than 7,000 cases—on both the defense and claimant sides and has tried over 600 of them.
Originally from Wisconsin, Mr. Cairns earned his Bachelor of Arts with honors in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin Madison in 1975. He pursued graduate studies in industrial psychology at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee before obtaining his law degree from the University of Texas at Austin in 1982.
Mr. Cairns is widely recognized for his contributions to the legal field. He has published articles in The Colorado Lawyer and frequently speaks on topics such as workers’ compensation, fitness-for-duty testing, medical marijuana, and the unique needs of older injured workers. He has taught legal research in paralegal programs at Metropolitan State College and the Denver Paralegal Institute, and is the founder and principal instructor of The Center for Workers’ Compensation Training, a private occupational school.
In recognition of his service, Mr. Cairns was named an “Outstanding Lawyer in America” in 2003 and received the Lance Butler Award in 2010 for his contributions to Colorado’s workers’ compensation community. He has also served as President of Professionals in Workers’ Compensation and the Denver Law Club.
Outside of his legal work, Mr. Cairns is an avid bicyclist and a creative force in the Denver Law Club, where he writes, directs, and performs parody songs and productions. He is married and has one son. Mr. Cairns is grateful for the breadth of experience he’s gained in the ever-evolving world of Colorado workers’ compensation and remains dedicated to advocacy, education, and excellence in practice.
Brenda Nunez serves as Executive Assistant at Cerda Legal, where she supports operations and client onboarding with precision, warmth, and professionalism. With three years of experience in administrative and operational roles, she plays a vital part in ensuring the firm’s day-to-day functions run smoothly and that clients feel welcomed
Brenda Nunez serves as Executive Assistant at Cerda Legal, where she supports operations and client onboarding with precision, warmth, and professionalism. With three years of experience in administrative and operational roles, she plays a vital part in ensuring the firm’s day-to-day functions run smoothly and that clients feel welcomed and supported from the start.
Brenda earned her degree in General Social Sciences with a concentration in Crime, Law, and Society and a minor in Legal Studies from the University of Oregon. During her studies, she also pursued criminal justice coursework abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark, an experience that deepened her global perspective and reinforced her commitment to justice and equity.
Known for her calm demeanor and empathetic approach, Brenda is a steady presence for both clients and colleagues. Her ability to listen attentively and respond thoughtfully makes her a trusted point of contact within the firm. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she helps bridge communication and foster inclusive engagement across diverse communities.
Brenda embodies Cerda Legal values of excellence, integrity, and teamwork. Her dedication, adaptability, and compassion make her an indispensable member of the team.
Andrea Lauer serves as a Paralegal at Cerda Legal, bringing over 13 years of comprehensive experience and a deep commitment to client care. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with major achievement in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Northern Colorado, and has built a strong foundation in workers’ compensation law through
Andrea Lauer serves as a Paralegal at Cerda Legal, bringing over 13 years of comprehensive experience and a deep commitment to client care. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with major achievement in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Northern Colorado, and has built a strong foundation in workers’ compensation law throughout her career.
Andrea is known for her calm, compassionate approach and her ability to navigate even the most complex legal situations with empathy and precision. Her extensive background in workers’ compensation allows her to advocate effectively for clients while maintaining a steady and reassuring presence.
As a mother of two, Andrea brings the same dedication and warmth to her professional life that she does to her family. She is a natural problem-solver and a trusted resource for both clients and colleagues. Her ability to create clarity and calm in high-pressure environments makes her an invaluable member of the Cerda Legal teamAndrea exemplifies the firm’s values of excellence, integrity, and teamwork, and continues to be a key contributor to our mission of providing thoughtful, client-centered legal support.
Aida Vasquez serves as a valued team member at Cerda Legal, where she brings a unique blend of hands-on experience, warmth, and dedication to service. Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, Aida is bilingual in English and Spanish—a skill she uses daily to foster clear and compassionate communication with clients from diverse backgrounds.
Wi
Aida Vasquez serves as a valued team member at Cerda Legal, where she brings a unique blend of hands-on experience, warmth, and dedication to service. Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, Aida is bilingual in English and Spanish—a skill she uses daily to foster clear and compassionate communication with clients from diverse backgrounds.
With certifications in both accounting and notary services, Aida’s professional journey reflects her wide-ranging strengths. Prior to joining Cerda Legal, she worked as a dental assistant and spent over three years in the construction field, demonstrating her adaptability, work ethic, and natural ability to connect with others in any setting.
Aida is a devoted mother of four and a proud pet owner with a lively household that includes one dog, four cats, five birds, and six chickens. Her vibrant personality shines both at work and at home, where she enjoys spending time in the mountains and cherishing moments with her family. A people person at heart, Aida finds genuine joy in helping others and is eager to continue growing in her understanding of the legal process.
Aida is an asset to Cerda Legal, embodying our values of empathy, professionalism, and lifelong learning.
Leslie brings a compassionate spirit and a strong commitment to service in every role she takes on. Raised in Aurora, Colorado, she is a proud graduate of Aurora Central High School and holds an associate's degree in childhood education. Her bilingual abilities have been invaluable in connecting with diverse communities and fostering in
Leslie brings a compassionate spirit and a strong commitment to service in every role she takes on. Raised in Aurora, Colorado, she is a proud graduate of Aurora Central High School and holds an associate's degree in childhood education. Her bilingual abilities have been invaluable in connecting with diverse communities and fostering inclusive environments.
Leslie has hands-on experience supporting children with special needs, having worked for two years as a paraprofessional; a role that highlights her empathy, patience, and dedication to care. She later transitioned to the home improvement industry, serving as a cabinetry sales representative at Lowe’s, where she applied her keen attention to detail and customer-focused mindset to guide homeowners through the renovation process.
Known for her warmth, energy, and professionalism, Leslie creates calm and confidence even in unfamiliar situations. Whether through her work or her love of dance and tennis, she brings vitality and heart to all she does. Leslie is an asset to any team, embodying the values of integrity, collaboration, and community engagement
Jessica brings a dynamic blend of academic achievement, legal experience, and heartfelt dedication to her role at Cerda Legal. Raised in Denver, Colorado, she is bilingual in English and Spanish, which allows her to provide inclusive and effective support for clients of diverse backgrounds.
A graduate of West High School, Jessica earned
Jessica brings a dynamic blend of academic achievement, legal experience, and heartfelt dedication to her role at Cerda Legal. Raised in Denver, Colorado, she is bilingual in English and Spanish, which allows her to provide inclusive and effective support for clients of diverse backgrounds.
A graduate of West High School, Jessica earned a dual bachelor's degree in political science and Sociology with a concentration in Criminal Justice from Colorado State University in Fort Collins. She is currently enrolled in a dual master’s program in Criminal Justice and Public Administration, and holds a Paralegal Certificate from Metropolitan State University.
Jessica’s legal background is both broad and deeply rooted. Before joining Cerda Legal, she gained hands-on experience in criminal justice, personal injury, and family law, and served as a legal assistant in immigration law—strengthening her commitment to advocacy and her drive to help underserved communities. Her prior work in customer service highlights her approachable nature and dedication to building trust through clear and respectful communication.
She aspires to attend law school with a focus on immigration and criminal law, driven by a passion for justice and a desire to make meaningful change. Outside the office, Jessica finds balance through tennis, relaxing with her Shih Tzu named Snoopy, and enjoying a good horror movie.
Jessica is a valued member of Cerda Legal, embodying our mission of professionalism, integrity, and compassion.
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