Olivia Delo

I grew up an only child in the suburbs of Chicago, raised by two military parents. From a young age, I experienced personal hardships and learned to understand the importance of advocacy. Specifically, how life changing it can be when someone truly listens and fights for you. That, combined with my deep interest in justice and the legal system, naturally led me toward the legal field. I was especially drawn to law because of how it allows you to stand beside people during the most difficult, and give them a voice when they might otherwise go unheard.

What first drew me to CGH was the firm’s client-first approach and reputation for doing things differently. Literally treating clients like people, not case numbers. The day I met Kevin and Tim for my interview, I felt that purpose and energy. Not only do we treat clients like people, but we treat each other like family. Everyone here is passionate about advocacy and committed to building a safer, more just system for injury victims. What I enjoy most is the atmosphere, no matter how busy or intense the day, it's hard to have a bad one when you’re surrounded by people who genuinely support you in your work and your life.

We always send our demand letters to our clients for their review before finalizing and sending it out. Many times, I have received messages in response saying that the letter captured all of their thoughts, feelings, and pain throughout this process. Some clients have even shared that they’ve cried while reading it. There are moments when my work feels distant or especially difficult. But those moments of genuine gratitude, whether over the phone or through email, reminds me of just how important my work is.

I stay current by being a member of the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association (CTLA), and, of course, by working with Kevin. Lately, I’ve been fascinated by the surge in interest in the legal field. Law schools have seen a nearly 20% increase in applications over the past two years. On one hand, yikes, that’s a lot of competition as I prepare my own application. But on the other, it’s amazing to see so many driven people from all walks of life pursuing justice and bringing fresh perspective and energy into the field of law, while it is desperately needed.

First things first, coffee. A typical day for me is pretty dynamic and fast paced. I might typically spend the morning going through and responding to any correspondence, coordinating treatment plans with providers, and speaking with or updating clients on important topics. I’m able to then switch gears pretty quickly to drafting and editing demand letters for our clients. The biggest challenge for me is managing the emotional side. Many clients are dealing with trauma, financial stress, and chronic pain. Some issues are even unrelated to their legal case. It’s difficult knowing that someone I’m actively speaking with and assisting on a daily basis is in so much pain or struggling, but the reward is knowing that I am always a consistent and reliable advocate in their corner.

Cheney Galluzzi & Howard is unlike any firm in Denver, and on a greater scale, Colorado. What sets us apart is that everyone here wants to do this work. At some firms, it can feel like people are just going through the motions. Here, we’re fully invested. We take the time to truly know our clients, fight for what they deserve, and put in the extra hours when it counts. The passion is real and it shows in our results, as well as in how we treat each other.

Right now, I’m studying for the LSAT, so there’s not a whole lot of downtime. Work, study, sleep, repeat! But that will change in August. When I do get time to unwind, I love going to Red Rocks shows, hiking, and spending time outside. I also have three incredible cats, (Ziggy, Lucy, and Winnie) who keep me company, and over 30 thriving plants at home, thanks to my very green thumb. I’ve recently found some fun in crafting? You can do so much with Mod Podge! I also love being at home when I don’t have any plans, it’s quiet, it’s peaceful, and I have an excellent view of the mountains!

Never give up. Don’t be intimidated by what you think the legal world is. I came to work at CGH with no legal experience. There’s room for people from all backgrounds, and the more diversity entering the legal field, the better the advocacy. Be ready to work hard, listen well, and care deeply. Also, stay curious. The law is always evolving, and the best legal professionals are the ones who never stop learning or asking how they become better advocates.