What can I solve for you?

School districts and school boards turn to me to reduce or eliminate their burdens, enabling them to enhance the educational experience for all their students. I advocate vigorously and passionately for my clients on issues that arise in special education, student discipline, governance and public records requests.

What's it like to work with me?

Many attorneys are quick to answer client requests with an automatic reply that “it can’t be done.” In contrast, I approach these situations with flexibility, creativity, and a determination to find legal and ethical ways for those I represent to attain their desired results. I’m adaptable in other ways, as well. While I take a collaborative approach to most cases, I use my well honed advocacy skill to advance my clients interests.

Top Issues in My Practice

Overview

Serving school districts throughout Southern California, Christopher J. “Chris” Fernandes represents clients in a variety of matters, including due process hearings stemming from special education and student discipline issues. He enjoys the intellectual stimulation of education law and relishes the opportunities to address novel issues that frequently arise.

Chris brings foresight and a sound strategic plan to each case. He prepares thoroughly, chooses reasonable end goals, and negotiates to obtain favorable outcomes for his clients. When cases make their way through the judicial system, Chris draws on his significant experience, which includes arguing before the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Public records requests increasingly require a great deal of school districts’ time and effort to address properly. Chris takes steps to streamline his clients’ responses and reduce their time investment while helping them keep compliant with all applicable laws.

Growing up in a family of teachers and administrators, Chris has naturally had a great deal of respect for public education. Before attending law school, he worked at the San Diego County Office of Education as a teacher’s assistant, which solidified his appreciation for educators and administrators. Chris’s true passion is knowing his work benefits the ever-diverse groups of students they serve.

Experience Highlights

  • Chris has contributed to reports published in the California Regulatory Law Reporter, produced by the Center for Public Interest Law at the University of San Diego

Internships

  • San Diego Unified School District’s Office of General Counsel

Involvement

Professional Affiliations

  • Member of the San Diego County Bar Association
  • Member of the Council of School Attorneys

After School

Our family thoroughly enjoys traveling, and over the years we’ve visited more than 20 countries together. My wife and I like to attend the kids’ activities, such as our son’s baseball games (he now plays for UCLA) and our daughter’s high school dance and cheerleading events. We also like to go to Padres games, as well as San Diego State Aztecs’ baseball and football games.

Education

  • University of San Diego School of Law (J.D.)
  • San Diego State University (B.S., Business Administration – Finance)
  • Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara - Baylor Law School Study Abroad Program (North American Legal Systems and International Human Rights)

Admissions

Bar Admissions
  • California

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