The idea of “paying it forward” articulated by Ralph Waldo Emerson is and has been a driving force in Carlos’ career and personal life. As a bilingual attorney and son of Mexican and Cuban immigrants, Carlos champions giving authentic voice to individuals and communities in need, including those from linguistically and culturally diverse backgrounds. The opportunity afforded at Carpenter & Zuckerman to put to use his legal skills alongside the firm’s resources and collective expertise to obtain justice for injured clients brings him deep and authentic fulfillment.

Carlos joined Carpenter & Zuckerman in 2018. Prior to joining the firm, Carlos served as judicial extern for the Honorable Philip S. Gutierrez of the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California and for the Honorable Gregory W. Alarcon of the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. He also worked as a law clerk at NBC Universal, and his previous career as an educator included serving as both a teacher and principal.

Carlos received his undergraduate degree from Occidental College, a master’s degree from California State University, Northridge, and his law degree from Southwestern Law School’s two-year J.D. program. He is currently a board member of the Los Angeles LGBT Bar Association and the Southwestern Alumni Nickel Club. His article entitled From Arlington to Tennessee: The Beginnings of a Chevron Deference Farewell Tour? was published in Vol. 47 of the Southwestern Law Review.

When he is not working, Carlos enjoys exploring his ever-evolving Los Angeles hometown, taking trips near and sometimes far, cooking, fitness, and spending time with loved ones.