Catherine I. Chávarri

Catherine I. Chávarri has built a respected career representing clients across Louisiana in complex matters involving family disputes, criminal defense, immigration, personal injury, and international law. She is recognized for her ability to navigate high-stakes litigation, as well as her dedication to protecting the rights of individuals in both state and federal courts.

Catherine earned her B.A. in Spanish from Randolph-Macon Woman’s College in 1972 before completing her J.D. at Loyola University New Orleans School of Law in 1990. She further expanded her legal knowledge through international study in Madrid, Spain, with the Marshall-Wythe School of Law of the College of William and Mary, deepening her insight into comparative legal systems.

Chávarri’s practice has included defending clients in significant criminal cases, handling immigration challenges, and pursuing personal injury claims. She has also represented clients in insurance defense matters, offering strategic guidance to companies facing complex disputes. As a panel attorney for the Federal Public Defender in the Eastern District of Louisiana, she has provided essential legal representation to those unable to afford counsel, demonstrating her long-standing commitment to equal access to justice.

Catherine is admitted to practice before all Louisiana state courts, three U.S. District Courts within the state, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and the U.S. Supreme Court. Her work has included notable published cases, reflecting her extensive appellate and trial experience. Beyond litigation, she is a certified court interpreter for English-Spanish proceedings, an ability that enhances communication in bilingual matters.

Catherine I. Chávarri remains active in professional associations, including the Louisiana State Bar Association, Louisiana Hispanic Lawyers Association, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and Louisiana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Her career reflects a balance of strong advocacy, cultural fluency, and dedication to clients facing critical legal challenges.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner Attorney, Stephenson, Chávarri & Dawson, L.L.C.
• Member, Louisiana State Bar Association
• Member, Louisiana Hispanic Lawyers Association
• Director, LA-Mexico Trade Association (1994 – 1996)
• Member, Sociedad Espanola
• Member, Council for International Visitors
• Panel Attorney, Federal Public Defender EDLA
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, Louisiana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, American Society for Training and Development
• Member, Women’s Professional Council

Licensed State

• Louisiana

Education

• Loyola University New Orleans School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Randolph-Macon Woman’s College
  BA in Major: Spanish

Awards & Badges