About Nelia

Nelia M. DeStefano serves as the managing partner and Chief Financial Officer at Brian Cunha & Associates, a prominent personal injury law firm with locations in Fall River, Massachusetts; East Providence, Rhode Island; and New Bedford, Massachusetts. With over 25 years of experience at the firm, she has played a crucial role in overseeing its financial operations and driving its growth. Under her guidance, the firm has expanded its reach and enhanced its services, solidifying its reputation in the legal community. Born in São Miguel, Azores, Mrs. DeStefano is fluent in Portuguese, a skill that has proven invaluable in serving the firm’s Portuguese-speaking clients.

This linguistic ability allows her to communicate effectively with clients, ensuring that all clients receive the attention and understanding they deserve. Her commitment to client service is evident in her approach to legal practice, where she prioritizes clear communication and accessibility. In 1998, Mrs. DeStefano earned her Juris Doctor from Roger Williams University School of Law, a respected institution known for its rigorous legal education. Prior to this, she completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Massachusetts, where she laid the foundation for her legal career. Admitted to practice law in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island, she focuses her practice on personal injury law.

Her areas of expertise include medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, products liability, animal and dog law, asbestos and mesothelioma cases, as well as insurance claims and Social Security disability. In addition to her legal practice, Mrs. DeStefano manages the administrative responsibilities of the firm’s three regional offices. This dual role as both a practicing attorney and law firm administrator is uncommon in the legal field, showcasing her versatility and commitment to the firm’s success. Her leadership has been instrumental in fostering a collaborative environment that emphasizes both legal excellence and operational efficiency. Under her leadership, Brian Cunha & Associates has received recognition from the Better Business Bureau for its longstanding service and commitment to clients.

The firm’s Fall River office is strategically located at 311 Pine Street, Fall River, MA 02720, making it accessible to clients in the region. Mrs. DeStefano’s experience and dedication to her clients have established her as a respected figure in the personal injury legal community, contributing to the firm’s ongoing success and positive reputation.

Education

Roger Williams University School of Law

J.D. (1998)

1998

Languages

English (Spoken, Written) Portuguese (Spoken, Written)

Accepted Jurisdictions

Rhode Island
Massachusetts

Court Admissions

U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts U.S. District Court
U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island U.S. District Court

Types of Cases Handled

Personal Injury Medical Malpractice Nursing Home Abuse Products Liability Animal & Dog Law Asbestos & Mesothelioma Insurance Claims Social Security Disability

Legal Services Scope

Trial Appeal

Sources

Information provided is based on available sources and may not be exhaustive or current. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please contact the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseers or the Rhode Island Bar Association directly.