Owner & Managing Partner

Karalynn Cromeens

I recognize that your company is a living breathing part of you and all of its creators. Your company’s creation and success are built from thousands of hours of dedication and time away from those you love and it deserves to be protected. At the Cromeens Law Firm, our true purpose is to protect and defend all that you have worked hard for and be your partner in business.

See Karalynn’s full profile

Senior Managing Attorney

Courtney Stricklen

I believe in the fight for the underdog. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to have someone fight for them, who, for whatever reason, can’t do it for themselves. Advocating for my clients and their businesses can bring peace of mind, and put food on the table for many who depend on the business to thrive. I do what I do because I am a passionate advocate for the rights of those who feel they have been taken advantage of.

See Courtney’s full profile

Senior Associate Attorney

Jonelle Oldacre

As an attorney, I take great pride in partnering with clients to formulate practical strategies to accomplish their goals. This often involves employing unique and flexible solutions to resolve complex problems. Ultimately, helping individuals and organizations resolve disputes and grow their business strengthens our community, which is the cornerstone of why I practice at The Cromeens Law Firm, PLLC.

See Jonelle’s full profile

Senior Associate Attorney

Ieshia Dunmore

At a young age, I always knew that I wanted a career that allowed me to help others in need. The legal profession provides a rewarding environment that makes me apply my mental acuity to assist those in difficult situations. It brings me great pleasure and satisfaction to bring peace and resolution to my clients who might be experiencing stress due to their legal situation.

See Ieshia’s full profile

Senior Associate Attorney

Kelly Stamy

I believe in finding efficient, effective, and creative solutions that are customized to each company’s mission, goals, and values. I work hard for every client; I take on all cases in a proactive manner so that each client can run their business without having to worry about any legal issues. They can be assured that we have them covered.

See Kelly’s full profile

Associate Attorney

Ebony Young-Fair

I enjoy helping others improve their circumstances and live happier lives, whether it be through resolving ongoing issues or forming their dream business. Everyone has a voice and a right to be heard. I am fulfilled when I empower my clients to make future decisions that will affect their lives and provide them the relief and security they need.

See Ebony’s full profile

Associate Attorney

Akunna Ofodu

I believe that people spend most of their life in the workplace, and their rights there should be protected. I enjoy helping businesses grow and defending employers in employment issues. My representation is honest, straight forward, and hands-on. I pride myself on helping my clients relay their personal objectives to get a favorable resolution in their situations.

See Akunna’s full profile

Associate Attorney

Mayra Maldonado

I was born in a different country, and I came to the U.S. at a young age. I know how hard it is to start over, not know the language and to feel like you have no rights. That is why I am passionate about helping those who have no voice or may not know their rights. I’m here to fight for my clients, protect their businesses and their interests, and be their advocate, because here at the Cromeens Law Firm, we know how hard you’ve worked to build something for yourself and your family.

See Mayra’s full profile

Associate Attorney

Kenneesha A. Johnson

My why is Justice. Fighting the good fight of justice and equality for others who may have been handed the shorter end of the stick or who may have a desire to do more but not necessarily know how or where to start. If I can assist them in fulfilling their goals by being their advocate and providing them with effective representation, then I have fulfilled my why.

See Kennesha’s full profile

Office Director + Lien Specialist

Jessica Mora

As the Office Director, Jessica Mora runs The Cromeens Law Firm (TCLF) as a well-oiled machine. In addition, she leads the firm’s mechanic’s lien and collection department. Jessica is passionate about her job and helping her clients. She enjoys taking on challenges and thinking outside the box to problem-solve on behalf of her clients in today’s ever-changing world of construction projects. Mora is a go-getter and enjoys helping people get what’s rightfully theirs. She understands that the construction industry is tough; there are so many strong individuals that have spent their lives working towards building an empire and working hard for their money… to not get paid what is rightfully theirs is just wrong! She wants to continue to educate those that need assistance, helping her clients understand and learn the process of collecting the money they are owed. Protecting them and their business is of the utmost importance to Jessica, and she wants them to know how to protect themselves on the front-end.

Jessica was born and raised in Houston and is a devoted mother, wife, daughter, boss, and friend. She is incredibly passionate about her career and loves her job and her work family. Mora doesn’t feel like she works a day in her life when she is at the office. She loves what she does each and every day. Before leading the Lien Department and becoming the Office Director at TCLF, she was the assistant manager at an apartment complex. After going back to school, she started working with Karalynn Cromeens and has been with her for the last 9 years. They are a fantastic team that supports, encourages, and paves the way for their staff.

When Jessica is not working hard for her clients, she enjoys spending time with her family. She is very family-oriented and believes time together with them is priceless. Jessica enjoys being outside, and you may find her sipping a Remy Martin Cocktail on her patio with her husband while the kids spend time together.

Why statement:

Having so many family members in the construction industry in all different areas of the field, I understand how important it is to stand up for yourself. I want to stand up for those who can’t stand up for themselves. They have rights, too. Just because they might not speak English doesn’t mean they don’t have the right to protect their money and get paid. A lot of people do not realize their rights in the construction industry. Don’t work for free…get paid for what is rightfully yours!

Marketing Director

Jackie Longstaff

Jackie is a native Houstonian and a graduate of Louisiana State University. She is a highly motivated, results-oriented Marketing Director with proven success in developing and implementing strategic marketing initiatives that drive revenue and increase brand value. Prior to joining The Cromeens Law Firm, she most recently lead the marketing department of a national chain of veterinary hospitals. Jackie launched her marketing career while working for a national department store chain and gained a vast amount of knowledge on marketing campaign management and a wide area of medias.

During her free time, Jackie enjoys playing tennis with her husband, Jordan, cheering on the LSU Tigers, and trying out new restaurants. Jackie is also an active participant in the Houston community’s philanthropic and non-profit efforts serving on local fundraising committees, such as the Houston Rodeo and Junior League of Houston. Jackie and Jordan have two adorable fur-children, Jasper and Julep, both mini Goldendoodles.

Why Statement:

I grew up in a family of both subcontractors and attorneys, many of them owning their own small businesses. I’ve seen first-hand the dedication, passion, and sacrifice that goes into building a successful business, and I understand that often blood, sweat, and tears go into its creation. I want to help grow The Cromeens Law Firm so that all subcontractors in Texas can protect what they have built.

Sr. Creative Manager

Leigh Leppert

Native Houstonian and Southern California dweller for nearly ten years, Leigh received her bachelor’s degree in the heart of Orange County at The University of California, Irvine before moving back to her hometown in the South. Her passion for design and the creative arts was the driving factor in choosing a career in marketing. Prior to joining The Cromeens Law Firm, Leigh was the Marketing Manager & Designer at Perdomo Group/Compass where she was responsible for providing innovative ideas and strategy to equip their team of Realtors® with the tools they need to close deals quickly! With her exceptional communication skills, she excels in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving problems, and interacting with clients. She is devoted to providing a meaningful product and personalized service while possessing great attention to detail in her craft.

An avocado toast connoisseur and woman of the arts, Leigh enjoys traveling, photography, and painting as well as spending time with her family and friends. With a passion for serving others, she is an active member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Leigh is a “foodie” and loves trying new cuisines and restaurants and feels blessed to live in a city that is filled to the brim with amazing food and art culture!

Why Statement:

My entire life, I have been surrounded by family members who fought hard for their family and careers. My father was an attorney in Houston, and my mother started her own interior design business many years ago. Having a background in the real estate industry and working closely with builders and contractors, I understand the hard work and devotion that you put into your craft and business each and every day…and THAT deserves to be protected.

Client Experience Manager

Daniel Donnelly

Daniel Donnelly oversees all customer support and client experience for The Cromeens Law Firm. Utilizing over fifteen years of sales and consulting experience, with almost a decade in the legal sector, Donnelly understands how to build successful relationships between law firms and clients.

Born and raised in Liverpool, England, Daniel graduated from Liverpool John Moores University in 2005 and relocated to Houston, TX shortly after. Building a successful career in sales and consulting, he soon realized that his favorite part of his career was the people, working closely with his clients, listening to their problems, and working hard to come up with ways to help them and solve their problems.

Daniel now proudly calls The Cromeens Law Firm home. Knowing how intimidating and overwhelming it can be to contact a law firm and navigate the legal process, Donnelly is on a mission to make sure each client feels welcome and comfortable right from the start. He does so by arming them with a thorough understanding of what to expect with their case and keeping in close contact with them throughout their entire legal journey.

When he’s not in the office, Daniel enjoys being home with his fiancée, children, and dogs (especially his beloved Min Pin, Chewie!). His hobbies include traveling, painting, cooking, and exploring new foods and wines. He also loves British and American History, and if there is a True Crime documentary on Netflix or Hulu, he has seen it.

Why Statement:

I believe everyone deserves a “customer experience” and not just “customer service.” We all remember a time when we received exceptional treatment at a hotel, a restaurant, or a store. So, why not expect the same thing from your law firm? Our promise to you is that you will walk away from your interactions with our incredible team with the confidence that we are YOUR law firm, and we will go above and beyond to have YOUR back every step of the way.

Senior Lien Case Manager

Martha Elena Lara

Martha Lara was born in Guanajuato, Mexico, and moved to Houston when she was seven years old. She is an Administrative Assistant and the Lien Lead Coordinator at The Cromeens Law Firm (TCLF). After graduating high school and completing an administrative assistant course, she worked for a Personal Injury Attorney in Bellaire, TX, for two years. She loves the TCLF team and her role and responsibilities within the lien department. Most of all, she enjoys working around people who are passionate about what they do. Martha is devoted to helping others and working at the Cromeens Law Firm allows her to help people collect on debts owed to them and help secure their right to payment!

Martha is a team player and works exceptionally hard at everything she does. Her commitment to caring for each client and their situation is something she strives to do each and every day. She exudes a strong will to win for her clients, every member of the team, and the company as a whole.

Why statement:

I am devoted to the practice and helping others in need. I know you have put your heart and soul into creating a business that is prosperous. It is so important that you and your business remain protected. Protecting yourself on the front-end will make a world of a difference, and we can help you do that at The Cromeens Law Firm.

Accounting Assistant

Yaritsol Villanueva

Yaritsol Villanueva (Yari) was born in Mexico and moved to the US when she was four years old. Houston raised, Yari learned about the construction industry at a young age. Growing up she was surrounded by construction work, both her father and brother worked in the construction industry for 20+ years and started their own company that deals with concrete and construction. Yari knew that she would somehow end up in that line of business when she began her career and is thrilled to be a part of The Cromeens Law Firm (TCLF) team as an Accounting Assistant. Driven to go above and beyond at her job, she is a quick learner and takes pride in her work. The ability to work for a company that has esteemed leaders that not only care for their business but also care for each person like they are family, is a blessing.

Yari is very good with computers, and her team comes to her with any and all IT questions first before sourcing it out. She is passionate about learning new things and solving issues quickly. Driven to excel in everything she does, Yari delivers quality work. She is respectful of her clients and team and loves being a part of a company that believes in those same principles. When she is not working, you can find Yari photographing her beautiful children; she has a passion for photography and loves practicing her skill with her family!

Why Statement:

I grew up surrounded by family in the construction industry. I learned at a very young age how much care and thought goes into nurturing every aspect of your business. It is your livelihood and others depend on you. Depend on us. The Cromeens Law Firm is your first step to protecting what you’ve built.

Paralegal

Oriana Torin

Oriana Torin was born and raised in Venezuela but moved out of the country when she was 18 and now calls Houston home. The legal field has been a passion of Oriana’s ever since she can remember. When she lived in Venezuela, she participated in several legal-based educational activities, mock trials, legal knowledge contests, tournaments, and Models of United Nations. Oriana went to high school in San Antonio de Los Altos, Venezuela, and then went on to University in Caracas. She studied Law for a year and a half there, with a focus on Human Rights and International Law before moving to Houston. She is currently attending Houston Community College to get her associate degree, and then plans to transfer to University to get a Political Science Degree, and, eventually onto to Law School to fulfil her dream of becoming a lawyer.

After leaving her hometown, it was difficult finding something that could match her passion with her needs and duties at the time. The Cromeens Law Firm (TCLF) gave her the opportunity to showcase her strong organization, planning, and structuring abilities, and allow her to focus on what she is passionate about, helping others through the legal system. She is thankful for the opportunity they entrusted her with, something she will always be grateful for. Oriana believes what makes TCLF special is the team members, they are all very different, and accept each other. It is truly a family.

Oriana loves languages, one of her goals is to learn as many languages as possible, French and Italian are next on her list. She also has a strong interest in radio broadcasting and plans to start her own podcast soon! When she is not working, you may find Oriana strutting around in her high heels, baking, swimming, watching movies/documentaries and dancing. She loves Oreos and any dessert with cookies and cream flavoring.

Why Statement:

I know what it’s like to start fresh in a new country…building something to be proud of…building a career. You deserve that fresh start, too. It’s not every day that we are handed opportunities on a silver platter, so we will fight hard for what you love and for what you’ve worked so hard for.

Paralegal

Darcy Horne

Born and raised in Houston, Darcy Horne is a firm believer in enjoying and living life to its fullest potential. She is passionate about making lasting memories and seeing the positive in every situation. That passion is the driving force in exceeding the expectations of her clients and working hard to fulfill her role as a Paralegal at The Cromeens Law Firm. She started her career in the legal field as a legal records clerk, which led her to obtain her paralegal certificate. Starting her first paralegal career in 2017 at a boutique law firm, Darcy has been happily calling The Cromeens Law Firm (TCLF) home since 2019. A graduate of Texas Southern University and the Center for Advanced Legal Studies, Darcy’s areas of practice include Construction Law, Business Law, Real Estate Law, Insurance Defense, and Personal injury.

Darcy loves working at TCLF because it creates a space for her to learn new skills while working in an encouraging environment. Traveling, spending time with family and her dog, Duke, shopping, and baking are just a few things Darcy enjoys in her free time. She is engaged to her middle school sweetheart and is currently training for a marathon at the end of the year.

Why Statement:

I want to help other people as much as I’ve been helped in the past. And most importantly, I want to have a positive influence on the community I live in. We are a family here at The Cromeens Law Firm, and we want to protect you and your family.

Lien Case Manager

Kassandra Matias

Kassandra Matias is thrilled to be a part of The Cromeens Law Firm (TCLF) team, where she is excited to grow her knowledge of the legal field! Prior to working for TCLF, she worked at an Elementary school as an Attendance Clerk. She is passionate about people and has a strong work ethic. With a background in customer service and love for serving others, she is an excellent addition to the team.

Raised in Houston, Kassandra graduated high school in 2012 and worked for a local school district for three years. She is an incredible mom to two beautiful children that mean the world to her. When she is not working, you will find her outdoors enjoying nature! A few of her favorite pastimes are camping and biking! Creative and innovative, Matias enjoys interior design and loves to recreate spaces in her home that she is inspired by.

Why Statement:

I believe in building lasting relationships and providing quality service so that others feel seen and heard. The ultimate goal is to have a positive impact on others’ lives (and ultimately their businesses).

Law Clerk

Brianna Nevels

Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, Brianna Nevels and has been living in Houston for the past sixteen years. After attending high school at Incarnate Word Academy, she set her sights on attending the number one HBCU in the Country, Spelman College. She received her undergraduate degree in Political Science with a minor in psychology from The Spelman College in Atlanta Georgia in 2017. After graduating from Spelman, Nevels returned home to attend Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, where she received her law degree and a certificate in Law, Technology, and Entrepreneurship.

Brianna is a 2020 Loyola University New Orleans College of Law graduate and is currently working as a law clerk at The Cromeens Law Firm (TCLF). Prior to starting her position at TCLF, she participated in various clinics geared toward assisting small businesses with their start up needs. Through these experiences, Brianna knew that she wanted to help people figure out the most functional and efficient way to run their businesses.

Brianna strives to go into every situation with genuineness and kindness and is a firm believer that those are the characteristics that make people feel comfortable in trusting you to go the distance for them.

Why Statement:

As someone who has had to constantly work hard and overcome obstacles, I know the importance of having people who have your best interest in mind. This is why I fight so hard for our clients. Everyone deserves someone in their corner, making sure their hard work is protected.

Marketing and Administrative Assistant

Chelsea MacElvaine

As a Canadian transplant, Chelsea MacElvaine was raised just outside of Dallas, TX, which she believes was a great place to grow up and offered the perfect environment to cultivate her creative ambitions. With family originally from Amherst, Nova Scotia, Chelsea appreciates diverse cultures, travel and is passionate about people and giving back to her community.

MacElvaine loves the community The Cromeens Law Firm provides. “Everyone is so kind and clever, and they genuinely care so much about their work and helping our clients. It is so encouraging to work in a place full of earnest, passionate people. I feel motivated AND challenged by my work, which is a blast- it means I leave every day having grown and learned something new!” She believes her role at TCLF is exciting and loves how the role challenges her. In addition to her responsibilities at the firm, Chelsea is the audio engineer and producer of The Quit Getting Screwed Podcast. She has a lot of experience producing podcasts and launching startups, having had a hand in three separate startup ventures.

Before joining the TCLF team, MacElvaine was an Executive Assistant at Inside Edge Publishing, Properties Manager for Stages Repertory Theatre, Administrative Assistant at Sam Houston State University, and Social Media Management and Podcast production for HoneyStack Studios. Chelsea received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Sam Houston State University.

Her passion for giving back to the community is evident in her work for the foster system, HTX homeless population, and human rights. Small businesses and startups are also very near and dear to her heart, and she loves promoting and learning about new companies all over Houston (and Texas, for that matter!). She is a member of the Big Brothers Big Sisters club of greater Houston, is involved with Mutual Aid Houston, and volunteers at the Montrose Center for Youth.

When she’s not working, you will find Chelsea making jewelry and custom clothing, reading 2+ books a month, and visiting the theatre for a show. She knows American Sign Language and is a trained vocalist and musician. Painting, playing board games, hiking, horseback riding, roller skating, and reviewing TV shows, films, and plays are just some of the few things she loves doing in her free time.

Why Statement:

The most hardworking person I know is the owner and key carpenter at a custom-builds carpentry company of his own making. He also happens to be my brother. Seeing first-hand the dedication, organization, and sacrifice it has taken to maintain his business inspires me daily. That is why I aspire to use my skills to amplify the TCLF team. The folks here know what it takes to succeed and how important it is to protect your work.

Accounting Assistant

Karla Razo

Karla Razo brings a world of knowledge and professionalism to The Cromeens Law Firm and is completely devoted to her craft and her team. This native Houstonian is Honduran and Mexican and learned from the example of her hard-working parents who immigrated to the United States with no job, very little money, and who spoke very little English. She is a full-time mother, full-time accounting assistant, was the first person in her family to graduate from high school and is currently putting herself through college to earn her degree. She is passionate about providing the best life for her two beautiful daughters as well as her parents.

Karla has learned that it is not only about winning a case, but rather helping their clients in any way they can. Being employed by someone who is not just thinking about the economic part, but actually taking into consideration the hard times a person is going through and seeking a solution is inspiring. Razo loves this industry as she is continuously learning and has gained a better perspective on what an individual’s rights are.

When she’s not working, you might find Karla watching movies, trying new food at different restaurants, and enjoying a nice bike ride in the park or swimming. She loves dancing, traveling, and learning from different cultures.

Why statement:

I saw my parents leave everything they knew to move to the United States. They worked diligently and sacrificed so much to establish a home and comforting life for me and my family. Here at The Cromeens Law Firm, I understand that our client’s families depend on these businesses, and I want to help protect that legacy.

Legal Assistant

Shanay Thomas

A quick learner who easily adapts to her work environment, Shanay Thomas is an asset to The Cromeens Law Firm team and has a background in the legal field. She is detail and task-oriented and has excellent communication and organizational skills. Motivated, team player, driven, and hardworking are just a few of the many qualities Shanay possesses. She demonstrates a passion for people and is devoted to the firm’s clients. Ready to help her team members at a moment’s notice, Thomas is genuinely dedicated to her team.

Shanay loves working at The Cromeens Law Firm because the environment is very welcoming and fast-paced. She thoroughly enjoys working in the law industry because she likes helping people and solving problems.

Born and raised in Houston, Thomas is the first person in her family to graduate from college. She graduated from Texas Southern University with a Bachelor of Science in Public Affairs. She received her paralegal certificate from the Center for Advanced Legal Studies in 2016. Shanay has a background in the legal field and previously served as a legal clerk at Harris County Sheriff’s Office and Wilson Elser, formerly known as Powers & Frost.

Shanay enjoys shopping, traveling, binge-watching her favorite TV shows, and loves the outdoors when she is not working. She loves visiting the Butterfly Exhibit at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. A fun fact about this bubbly and bright legal assistant is that twins run on both sides of her family. She is a twin, and her twin sister has a set of twins! She loves her family dearly and enjoys spending quality time with them. Shanay loves spoiling her nieces and nephews and will always go above and beyond for her family.

Why Statement:

It brings me joy knowing that I have truly made an impact in someone’s life. I knew that I wanted to be a part of the legal field at a young age because I used to watch many shows that revolved around law, and I have always been passionate about helping others. I am blessed to be a part of something that I have always appreciated and believe it is a huge accomplishment in my life. Just as my own accomplishments are important to me and my life, your accomplishments are just as important and deserve to be protected. At TCLF, we strive to be better and protect our clients as if they were our own family.