“My varied experience as a trial lawyer, judge, and mediator allows me to view legal matters in a unique and comprehensive way. I can quickly identify clients’ needs and advise them on a plan of action to achieve the best results.”
Overview
Cherrell is the Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer and a trial lawyer who assists commercial clients, non-profit organizations, public entities, maritime companies, and major energy clients in all areas of litigation. She represents companies in matters related to construction disputes, contract and quasi-contracts, director and officer liability, tort liability, insurance coverage disputes, labor and employment matters, tax litigation, unfair trade practice/business torts, and unjust enrichment claims. She regularly handles construction matters for clients, including compliance with the Louisiana Public Works Act, Construction Management at Risk procurements, and public bids, zoning, and variances. She is also qualified as a mediator and arbitrator through the Mediations Arbitration Professional Systems, Inc. (“maps”) on its prestigious Panel of Neutrals.
Prior to joining the firm, Cherrell worked as a partner in private practice, served as Judge Pro Tempore in state court, and served as the Senior Chief Deputy City Attorney for the City of New Orleans. In 2011, she became the first Black woman partner at a major law firm in New Orleans. There, she represented insurance companies, businesses, and corporate clients in both federal and state courts throughout Louisiana. In 2013, Cherrell was appointed Senior Chief Deputy City Attorney for the City of New Orleans. Her role was as second-in-command to the City Attorney and included the position – Chief of Litigation. As Chief of Litigation for the City of New Orleans, Cherrell managed over 1000 cases that involved litigation in state, federal, and municipal and traffic courts. The matters that she handled were diverse and included: personal injury, contract, construction, land use, public bid, employment, code enforcement, public records, administrative appeals, and civil rights litigation. She also represented the City of New Orleans in several high-profile cases.
Highlights
Experience
Appointed to the Panel of Neutrals for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana Hurricane Ida Streamlined Settlement Program.
Experience
Mediated and resolved hundreds of cases for a major insurance client following Hurricane Katrina.
Experience
Served as Judge Pro Tempore in Division J of the Civil District Court for the Parish of Orleans.