Meet Keiretsu Law
Keiretsu- a Japanese term referring to a business network made up of different companies that work together to form a strong alliance helping each other grow and be successful, all the while remaining operationally independent.
Our law practice was founded on the keiretsu concept of strong alliances. Recognizing the strength that comes from collective effort, we foster a culture of collaboration. By working closely with our clients, legal partners, and financial partners, we amplify our collective impact. We believe that collaboration leads to creative solutions and enhances our ability to further innovate.
Meet The Team
Brianna R. Gonzalez, Esq., MBA
Managing Partner
Brianna is a versatile legal professional specializing in securities transactions. She provides comprehensive counsel to private businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, and philanthropists throughout the entire business lifecycle. Her expertise encompasses equity and debt securities offerings, including private placement memoranda, as well as innovative financing and fundraising strategies for emerging companies.
In the real estate sector, Brianna's proficiency extends to fund formation documents, purchase and sale contracts, corporate leases, and various commercial agreements. Her background as a public finance counsel for a renowned California State Treasurer recognized firm has equipped her with valuable insights into municipal finance. This unique combination of experience allows her to facilitate effective partnerships between private clients and local governments, bridging the gap between business goals and public sector collaboration.
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Jerry Stephen Smith, Esq.
Of Counsel
Jerry is an attorney, entrepreneur and seasoned executive with extensive experience supporting and representing founders, startups and early stage companies in emerging technology. His areas of expertise include corporate formation issues, investment structure, talent acquisition, operations, strategic partnerships, commercial transactions and M&A. Jerry’s clients range from B2B SaaS startups to space tech ventures to tech-enhanced real estate developers. He is committed to providing exceptional client service with every engagement.
Of Counsel
Carlos Eduardo Julca, Esq.
Carlos Eduardo Julca is a Tax Specialist at Keiretsu Law with extensive experience in Mergers & Acquisitions, Tax and Tech Law, and Venture Capital. Prior to Keiretsu, Carlos worked at both Berger Singerman LLP and Lin Tax Law in their U.S. and International Tax sectors. His time as a Senior Associate at Deloitte developed his expertise in commercial and cross-border transactions. His focus on delivering sound legal advice has positioned him as a trusted advisor in his field.
Carlos is focused on providing expert tax advising and contributing to the growth of Keiretsu’s financial division, while supporting the firm’s strategic partnerships.
Melack Samson
Executive Legal Assistant
Melack Almaz Samson is an Executive Legal Assistant at Keiretsu Law. She is currently completing her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a concentration in Comparative Politics at the University of California, Berkeley, and is expected to graduate in May 2025. She will be entering law school in the fall of 2025.
Melack has a strong interest in transactional law, business law, and general corporate matters. Prior to joining Keiretsu Law, she gained valuable experience as a caseworker and Head of Finance for the UC Berkeley Student Advocates Office, where she worked on student representation and financial oversight. In addition to her legal work, Melack is passionate about entrepreneurship and assists with firm marketing and office management.
Legal Extern*
Ifunanya (Naya) Ugwumba
Ifunanya “Naya” Ugwumba is a J.D. Candidate at Loyola Marymount Law School, currently in her second year with an emphasis on tax law and a strong interest in mergers and acquisitions.
Prior to joining Keiretsu Law, Naya gained valuable experience as an intern for the Tax Appeals Assistance Program at the Franchise Tax Board of California, where she assisted with tax dispute resolution. She also clerked at The National Society of Entertainment and Arts Lawyers, further expanding her legal expertise. Currently, she is an active member of the Loyola of Los Angeles Entertainment Law Review.
At Keiretsu Law, Naya applies her legal research, transactional knowledge, and corporate law experience to support the firm's attorneys in complex business and securities matters. Her dedication to the intersection of tax and corporate law makes her a valuable asset to the team.
Abid Nizami
Contract Paralegal*
Abid Nizami is a contracted Paralegal at Keiretsu Law, bringing a strong foundation in corporate and securities law. He earned his LLB Bachelor of Law with Honors from the University of London and has extensive knowledge in international corporate matters, banking laws, taxation, and mergers & acquisitions.
At Keiretsu Law, Abid provides legal research, contract drafting, and document review support, assisting attorneys in managing complex corporate transactions. His experience extends to handling case files and preparing legal briefs. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of global financial and corporate regulations, Abid plays a vital role in supporting the firm’s legal team.