Office Location: Tempe, Arizona

Kate Merolo

Partner

Kate Merolo’s extensive legal career is dedicated to Arizona’s community associations and condominiums. With a comprehensive practice encompassing community association, condominium, intellectual property, employment law, and insurance defense matters, she serves association, non-profit, and business clients.

Office Locations

Overview

Kate Merolo has been representing community associations and condominiums throughout Arizona for nearly her entire legal career. Kate’s practice serves the firm’s association, non-profit corporation, and business clients. Her practice areas include all aspects of community association and condominium law and also encompass intellectual property, trademark protection, employment law, and insurance defense.

Kate graduated cum laude from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law in 2009 and summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Justice Studies from Arizona State University in 2005. While at Loyola University New Orleans, she was a member of the Loyola Maritime Law Journal and the Phi Delta Phi legal honors fraternity.

Kate’s favorite thing to do is spend time with her family. She is also an amateur yogi and an avid consumer of audio books.

Education
  • Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, JD
  • Arizona State University, BS
Professional Memberships
  • Community Associations Institute (CAI)
  • Horace Rumpole American Inn of Court
  • American Intellectual Property Law Association
  • The Copyright Society of the USA

Seminars

March 9, 2021

HOAs, Movie and Music Licenses

Movie Night at the HOA? Music in the Clubhouse? Utilizing images you found online? You might need a license for that! What can happen if violate federal/state intellectual property law? Find the answer to these questions and more.

March 2, 2021

HOAs, Movie and Music Licenses

Movie Night at the HOA? Music in the Clubhouse? Utilizing images you found online? You might need a license for that! What can happen if violate federal/state intellectual property law? Find the answer to these questions and more.

Joshua Bolen

Shareholder, Co-Managing Partner

Joshua M. Bolen is a seasoned practitioner in Community Association Law and Business/Employment Law, overseeing comprehensive litigation at CHDB Law. With a track record of successful trials in Arizona at both state and federal levels, including Court of Appeals and the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit and Ninth Circuit, Josh’s commitment to legal education and service is notable. He is also admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of the United States of America.

He has held significant roles within the Community Associations Institute (CAI) and currently co-chairs the CAI Legislative Action Committee for community association legislation lobbying in Arizona. Josh is an educator, teaching Community Association Law at the National CAI Law Conference and locally on various legal topics, contributing to the legal community through his engagement with the Firm, CAC-CAI, and AACM. Josh is also a national member of the College of Community Association Lawyers with CAI.

Office Locations

Overview

Joshua M. Bolen practices in every aspect of Community Association Law and Business and Employment Law and is responsible for overseeing all litigation at CHDB Law. Josh has successfully tried numerous jury and bench trials in Arizona on both the state and federal level. He has also practiced in the Arizona Court of Appeals, The United States District Court of Arizona and The United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit.

Education and service to the legal industry are very important to Josh. He has served with Community Associations Institute as its 2013 Chapter President, 2012 President-Elect, 2014 Treasurer, 2015 Director at Large, and was the Co-Chair of the Public Relations Committee for the Central Arizona Chapter. Josh also served as Co-Chair of the CAI Legislative Action Committee that was responsible for lobbying on behalf of, and against, community association legislation in Arizona. He teaches Community Association Law at the National CAI Law Conference and locally on all Community Association issues and Business and Employment Law issues on behalf of the Firm, CAC-CAI, AACM, and various other organizations and management companies.

Josh and his wife, Stacy, enjoy spending time with their 2 kids, Catherine and Crosby, and their dogs. Josh is a die-hard Arizona Cardinals fan. His family has been season ticket holders since 1988 and they travel to at least one away game each season.

Education
  • Southwestern School of Law, JD
  • W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University, Accountancy Degree
Professional Memberships
  • Community Associations Institute (CAI)
  • College of Community Association Lawyers (CCAL)
  • Arizona Association of Community Managers (AACM)
  • The Leadership Centre
  • Maricopa County Bar Association
Speaking Engagements
  • Dogs, Chickens & Emotional Support Ponies, Oh My!, Presented by Joshua Bolen, James Hazlewood, Jason Miller, Wednesday, March 29, 2023
Awards
  • Member of the College of Community Association Lawyers (CCAL)

Authored articles

Seminars

Upcoming

December 2, 2025

Trends in HOA Living: What’s Changing in 2026 and Beyond

HOA living is evolving. Explore emerging trends shaping community associations in 2026 and beyond—legislative updates, sustainability initiatives, shifting homeowner expectations, and technology advances. Learn how to proactively adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

June 12, 2025

2025 Legislative Update

The 2025 legislative landscape for HOA’s introduced several significant changes. Here’s a breakdown of what associations can expect.

May 6, 2025

Developer Controlled Associations – What You Need to Know

What should an HOA plan for before transitioning from builder control to homeowner control? What challenges are most likely to be identified during the transition? Discover the answers to these questions and more!

February 4, 2025

HOA Board “Mess-Ups” and How to Avoid Them

Board Training. Fiduciary Duties. Cohesion and Trust. When boards prioritize transparency, collaboration, and adherence to both legal and ethical standards, they can avoid pitfalls that are lawful but harmful.

December 3, 2024

2025 is Just Around the Corner

Top Issues for 2025: Will it be a turning point for better days ahead, or will current trends persist? What changes will associations need to make in an ever-evolving world? Goodbye 2024, hello 2025!

June 4, 2024

What’s in Store for 2024 – HOA Legislative Update

What you can expect going forward and how the new laws and trends are likely to impact you.

August 1, 2023

Common Area Liabilities

Protecting our common areas / elements How do we protect an association’s largest asset – its common property? Insurance coverage for common property is essential to protect assets and minimize liability. The specific amounts and types of insurance coverage needed may vary depending upon your CC&R’s, local regulations, and the types of common areas/elements.

March 7, 2023

Dogs, Chickens & Emotional Support Ponies, Oh My!

Are barking dogs driving residents nuts? Is a ball python a typical household pet? How do you distinguish between an assistance animal and a pet? Come and learn the answers to these questions and more!

April 5, 2022

Top 10 Planned Community Issues

Are you always facing new issues in your Planned Community? Feeling Overwhelmed? You are not alone….join us to discuss the Top 10 Planned Community Legal Issues in 2022. We will explore what to do, what to worry about, how to save your Planned Community money, and what your Association should be on the lookout for […]

March 1, 2022

Top 10 Issues for Condominiums

Oh no! Not again? It seems there are always complex legal issues happening within a Condominium Association. Join us to discuss the Top 10 Condominium Legal Issues in 2022. We will explain what to do with these issues, how to save your Condominium Association money, and what your Association should be on the lookout for […]

September 9, 2021

The New Roaring 20s for HOAs!!!

HOAs have definitely changed since the beginning of 2020. Is this for the good, the bad or both??? This seminar will explore current and future HOA legal issues regarding virtual meetings, maintenance requirements/obligations, reserve funding, construction costs, vendor costs, social events and a few other surprise topics.

May 11, 2021

Help! I Think my Board is Imploding!

Board members not getting along, misbehaving, threatening to resign? What if you no longer have a board? Legal options to practical and political problems.

October 13, 2020

Cameras and Enforcement

As cameras get smaller and more readily available, what steps can your association take to ensure a member’s privacy and security concerns? We will discuss your association’s authority to install security cameras in common areas, to regulate cameras on a lots/units, and its potential need to adopt various record, security and privacy policies.

October 6, 2020

Cameras and Enforcement

Cameras in Community Associations: Safety vs. Privacy As cameras get smaller and more readily available, what steps can your association take to ensure a member’s privacy and security concerns? We will discuss your association’s authority to install security cameras in common areas, to regulate cameras on a lots/units, and its potential need to adopt various […]

April 7, 2020

Vendors

What vendor should we choose? How to know when you have a legal issue with a Vendor. How to avoid a potential legal issue all together. What you should look out for before you enter into a contract. When should you contact your attorney!

March 3, 2020

Parking, Parking and More Parking

So many parking violations, so little the HOA can do about it, right? Wrong! Learn how and when to enforce your associations parking rules, how to adopt a set of parking rules, and when it is time to get the police involved.

November 5, 2019

20/20 What to Expect Next Year

20 for 20 – Take a look at how Associations may have to change, evolve, and improve over in 2020! Can there really be 20 ways for this to occur? You must attend to find out.

February 5, 2019

Rentals Running You Ragged?

Community association feeling more like a hotel than a home? Short term neighbors leaving you long term problems? Learn the techniques to “address” your short term rental challenges.

January 11, 2018

Enforcement in 2018 – What Now?

The wait is over! Find out what laws have been signed and what that means for Associations in...

April 4, 2017

Double Seminar: Collections and Enforcement

Collections: What’s working? What’s not? How changes in the real estate market, local economy and the Courts are...

Jonathan Ebertshauser

Partner

Jonathan is an expert in community association law, covering general counsel, easements, developer transitions, enforcement, litigation, and collections. He also oversees the firm’s zoning and land use practice.

Office Locations

Overview

Jonathan Ebertshauser, a partner in our Phoenix office, focuses his practice on the representation of homeowners associations throughout Arizona. With a deep understanding of the planned community statutes and the Arizona Condominium Act, Jonathan advises community associations on a wide range of legal matters including covenant enforcement, board governance, member disputes, vendor contracts, and corporate compliance with state statutes and governing documents.

Known for his pragmatic and responsive counsel, Jonathan works closely with HOA boards and community managers to develop proactive strategies that support effective leadership and minimize legal risk. He has successfully assisted associations with rulemaking, election procedures, dispute resolution, and general corporate governance.

Jonathan’s practical approach to complex legal matters and his commitment to client service brings valuable insight into a wide range of legal areas, including real estate law, homeowners association governance, corporate compliance, and civil litigation, planning, and zoning.

Jonathan is a member of the State Bar of Arizona and a trusted resource for board members navigating the legal responsibilities of community leadership. He is committed to helping communities thrive through clear communication, sound legal guidance, and a focus on long-term stability.

When not practicing law, Jonathan enjoys spending time with his family, participating in local events, and contributing to the communities he serves.

Education
  • Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, JD
  • Arizona State University, MA
  • Arizona State University, BA
Professional Memberships
  • Community Associations Institute (CAI)
  • Arizona Association of Community Managers (AACM)
  • State Bar of Arizona

Authored articles

Seminars

Upcoming

October 7, 2025

Conflict Resolution & Handling Difficult People

Community association leaders need strong conflict management skills. Learn to resolve disputes, address challenging behavior, and maintain compliance while staying professional.

September 2, 2025

HOA Responsibilities vs. Homeowner Responsibilities

Which responsibilities belong to the HOA versus individual homeowners? We'll cover community property management, enforcement authority, and neighbor disputes to help maintain a compliant, well-functioning community.

April 1, 2025

Changes to the HOA Regulatory Climate

The outcome of elections can significantly shape the future of state and federal regulations that govern HOA’s. Join us for a preview of potential changes to the regulatory environment.

August 27, 2024

Politics in Associations

It’s the most political time of the year, with candidate signs dotting every corner and political ads filling the airwaves. Are you wondering if that sign is political? Can homeowners host political assemblies within an HOA? We will discuss how HOAs regulate political activities.

May 7, 2024

What You Don’t Know Could Hurt You

There are over 225 state laws that have the potential to regulate your community association. How well do you really know them?

December 5, 2023

Never Seen Before for 2024

There are several potential changes and innovations that could be seen in HOA’s. While we can’t predict the future with certainty, join us to find out the possible “never before seen” developments that might emerge in HOA’s.

May 2, 2023

What would you do?

Back by popular demand – Arizona’s hot topics seminar presented in an entertaining and interactive format.

December 2, 2020

Up in Smoke: Prop 207, The Legalization of Marijuana in HOAs

Can an HOA regulate marijuana use? Better yet, should they? What does the law say? What are your options? Answers to these questions and more!

Javier Delgado

Shareholder

Javier represents homeowner associations and condominium associations, businesses and non-profit organizations throughout Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. He has expertise in assisting boards with complex problems involving maintenance disputes, insurance claims, interpreting covenants, bylaws and rules, reviewing contracts, gaining owner compliance, dealing with owner versus owner disputes, addressing discrimination claims and complying with state and federal law.

Office Locations

Overview

Javier Delgado joined the firm in 2007. He represents homeowner associations and condominium associations, businesses and non-profit organizations throughout Arizona, New Mexico and Utah.

Javier has expertise in assisting boards with complex problems involving maintenance disputes, insurance claims, interpreting covenants, bylaws and rules, reviewing contracts, gaining owner compliance, dealing with owner versus owner disputes, addressing discrimination claims and complying with state and federal law. Javier also assists community association boards in devising strategies to collect delinquent assessments and dues from homeowners and educates boards regarding the collections process. Javier has experience filing personal money judgment lawsuits to collect unpaid assessments and dues, garnishing owners wages and bank assets and foreclosing on association assessment liens. Javier also has experience in foreclosing on timeshare interests.

Active in lobbying the New Mexico State Legislature for improvements to the New Mexico HOA Act, Javier testified before the NM Public Affairs Committee in 2017 regarding proposed amendments to the NM HOA Act and also participated in a 2015 Senate Judiciary Committee regarding the NM HOA Act.

Javier trains board members and community association managers on a regular basis regarding best practices. He is a regular presenter for Community Associations Institute (CAI) and the Arizona Association of Community Managers (AACM). Javier has also been featured in the New York Times, the Arizona Republic, Phoenix New Times newspapers and is a monthly contributor to the “All Things Real Estate” radio show on KVSF 101.5 FM in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Education
  • James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona, JD
  • University of Arizona, BA
Professional Memberships
  • Community Associations Institute (CAI)
  • Arizona Association of Community Managers (AACM)
  • Arizona Self Storage Association (AZSA)
Speaking Engagements
  • “Changes in the Law”, May 2017 (AZ)
  • “Nextdoor, Social Media and the Media: What You Need to Know”, May 2017, Apr. 2017 and Feb. 2017 (AZ)
  • “So You Want to Be a Board Member: Transitioning from Developer to Owner Control”, May 2017 (AZ)
  • “Basics of Association Management (BAM), Budgets, Meetings and Contracts”, AACM, May 2017 and Feb. 2017 (AZ)
  • “Drones and HOA’s: What You Need to Know”, CAI National Conference, May, 2017
  • “Proposed Changes to the NM HOA Act”, Apr. 2017 (NM)
  • “The Top 7 Things You Need to Know as a New Board Member”, Apr. 2017 (AZ)
  • “2017 Collections”, Apr. 2017 (AZ)
  • “Hot Topics in HOA Law: Firearms, Records Requests, and More” Mar. 2017 and Feb. 2017 (AZ)
  • “Gameshow: 30 Things Every Community Manager Should Know”, Mar. 2017 (AZ and NM) and Oct. 2016 (AZ)
  • “Board Training Essentials”, Feb. 2017 (AZ)
  • “Gameshow: 30 Things Every Community Manager Should Know”, Oct. 2016 (AZ)
  • “Short Term Rental Regulation”, Oct. 2016 (NM)
  • “How to Run a Perfectly Legal Meeting”, Sept. 2016 (AZ)
  • “Developments in HOA Regulation of Chicken and Drones”, Aug. 2016 (AZ)
  • “Board Training 101”, Aug 2016 (NM)
  • “Legislative Update & Board Training”, Jul. 2016 (AZ)
  • “HOA’s & Drones”, Jul. 2016 (AZ)
  • “HOA Collection Strategies”, Jul. 2016 (NM)
  • “Options to Regulate Short Term Rentals”, Apr. 2016 (AZ)
  • “Collecting Delinquent Assessments”, Apr. 2016 (AZ)
  • “Condominium Basics”, Mar. 2016 (AZ)
  • “Deeds 101”, Feb. 2016 (AZ)
  • “Chickens Revisited and their Farm Friends”, Community Associations Institute (CAI) Central AZ Chapter, Jan. 2016 (AZ)
  • “Homeowner Association Law 101”, Dec. 2015 (AZ)
  • “Collection Issues”, September 2015, Arizona Association of Community Managers, (AACM), Jul. 2015 and Feb., 2015 (AZ)
Publications and Media
  • Lost your black cat, but don’t know your neighbors? There’s an app for that. But beware what you say. Your free speech may not necessarily be free, CAI Central AZ Chapter Magazine, Summer 2017 (AZ)
  • Crying Fowl: Community Associations and the Backyard Chicken Farming Movement, CAI Central AZ Chapter Magazine, April 2014

Authored articles

Seminars

Upcoming

November 4, 2025

HOA Board Member Basics

For seasoned or new members, serving on a community association board can be difficult. We'll cover board roles, fiduciary duties, meeting procedures, governing documents, and best practices for ethical leadership.

January 14, 2025

How to be an HOA Pro

Becoming a successful HOA professional, whether as a board member or manager, requires a blend of leadership skills, legal knowledge, and a commitment to the community’s well-being. With the right tools and mindset, your HOA will thrive.

October 1, 2024

HOA Collections

This seminar will examine recent changes in legislation, the real estate market, the local economy, and the courts. Should associations make adjustments? What does the future hold? What’s working and what isn’t? Discover how new laws and trends are impacting your community’s bottom line.

April 2, 2024

From Boomtown to Slowdown: HOA Assessment Recovery

Are you prepared for a potential rise in delinquencies? Do personal lawsuits/garnishment remain an effective tool? Are you “foreclosure ready”?

September 7, 2023

Shaken, not Stirred: HOA Alcohol Event Update

Does your HOA permit alcohol consumption on property? What role does the Department play with regards to liquor licensing? If you have a license, are you in compliance? Is BYOB really the answer? Looking to host a large-scale event? What are the potential consequences of getting it wrong? Guidance regarding these matters and more!

September 7, 2022

Big Game Proofing Your HOA – Regulating Short Term Rentals, Party Houses & Street Parking

Arizona’s high tourism season means that a rise in short-term rental, party house, and street parking related complaints are sure to follow. Are you enforcing your short-term regulations strategically? Looking to amend? Party houses and parking disputes keeping you up? Gain insight into these issues and more.

August 16, 2022

Managing Politics in Your Community

It’s the most political time of the year, when corners are covered by candidate signs and commercials are filled with political rhymes. Is THAT a political sign? What rights do Owners have to host political assemblies within the HOA? Join us for a non-partisan discussion on political regulation by HOAs. Register via our ConstantContact event […]

November 2, 2021

Ripped from the Headlines: HOA’s in the News

Is THAT legal? Better yet, is it a good idea? Real stories from around the country. Learn what not to do.

February 9, 2021

Lawful but Awful | Collections

Is THAT legal? Better yet, are we going to collect? Learn from the unintentional mistakes of boards that took action that was lawful, but awful.

February 2, 2021

Lawful but Awful | Collections

Is THAT legal? Better yet, are we going to collect? Learn from the unintentional mistakes of boards that took action that was lawful, but awful.

August 11, 2020

COVID Proofing Your Collections

Change is coming. Your community association survived the Great Recession, but this one just feels different. Will owners continue to pay voluntarily? Does a wave of lender foreclosures lie just beyond the horizon? What about bankruptcy? You may not be able to control the economy but you can control your collection strategy. You have options!

May 5, 2020

What Would You Do? Covid-19 Scenarios

Have a COVID-19 related annual meeting, board meeting, collection, enforcement, parking, tot lot/fitness center/pool, or notification concern? Unsure how to handle it? 12 advanced COVID-19 scenarios will be presented. Discuss with us, what you would do and why. An opportunity to apply best practices in an uncertain situation. Please note that this online viewing will […]

February 4, 2020

Fast Track Your Collections

Delinquent accounts got you down? Learn how to collect delinquencies faster, handle accounts uniformly, and maintain board control while shortening your board meetings. Learn about our Assessment Recovery options.

May 14, 2019

Fight the Bite! Combating Mosquito Threats in HOAs

Did you know that West Nile virus has been spreading in the Valley since 2003? What can HOAs do to abate mosquito born disease threats in the community? What services does Maricopa County Vector Control offer? How do you address resident demands for additional intervention? What about when residents oppose treatment efforts? The science and […]

January 8, 2019

Keeping Your Rear Out of Arrears

How’s your collection “technique”?  What’s working/what’s not?  Join our panel in covering the latest trends in the marketplace, rulings by the courts, tactics by delinquent owners and counter-strategies.  Keep your association’s rear out of arrears, and in the black!

April 3, 2018

Double Seminar: Mental Health Challenges & Collections

The wait is over! Find out what laws have been signed and what that means for Associations in...

March 6, 2018

Lawful but Awful: “Legal” Actions with Unintended Negative Consequences

The wait is over! Find out what laws have been signed and what that means for Associations in...

May 31, 2017

Online Only Manager Drone Presentation

The wait is over! Find out what laws have been signed and what that means for Associations in...

April 4, 2017

Double Seminar: Collections and Enforcement

Collections: What’s working? What’s not? How changes in the real estate market, local economy and the Courts are...

November 1, 2016

Double Seminar! Group Homes And Collections; Where Are We Going In 2017?

Group Homes – What can and cannot be done to regulate and restrict Group Homes in Associations. Collections – This seminar...

James Hazlewood

Shareholder

James Hazlewood is a shareholder in the Phoenix office of CHDB Law, having joined the firm in 1998. Since 1989, he has been representing community associations. He now focuses on community association general counsel matters – from simple to complex, other general business matters, and assessment recovery.

Office Locations

Overview

James Hazlewood is a shareholder in the Phoenix office of CHDB Law, having joined the firm in 1998. Since 1989, he has been representing community associations. He now focuses on community association general counsel matters – from simple to complex. In addition, he works with the Assessment Recovery department because of his years of experience, and on general business and real estate matters. 

James is a member of the College of Community Association Lawyers and a current member of the Education Committee of the Arizona Association of Community Managers where he has taught a number of courses. He has been a speaker at national Community Associations Institute seminars over the years as well as at local events and continuing legal education. Prior to becoming a lawyer, James represented clients as a media director and account executive for advertising agencies.

Education
  • Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, JD
  • University of Illinois, MS
  • The University of Texas at Austin, BJ
Professional Memberships
  • Community Associations Institute (CAI)
  • Arizona Association of Community Managers (AACM)
  • College of Community Association Lawyers (CCAL)
  • Arizona Trustee Association
Speaking Engagements
  • What’s in store for 2024 – HOA Legislative Update, Presented by James Hazlewood, Jason Miller – June 28, 2024
  • What you don’t know, could hurt you, Presented by James Hazlewood, Jason Miller – understanding state laws as they apply to your Community Association – May 31, 2024
  • From Boomtown to Slowdown: HOA Assessment Recovery, Presented by James Hazlewood, Jason Miller – preparing for delinquencies, foreclosure and more – April 26, 2024
  • Enforcing with Confidence, Presented by James Hazlewood, Jason Miller – March 29, 2024
  • Group Homes & Sober Living Homes, Presented by James Hazlewood, Jason Miller – December 1, 2023
  • Dogs, Chickens & Emotional Support Ponies, Oh My!, Presented by James Hazlewood, Joshua Bolen, Jason Miller – March 29, 2023
Awards
  • Outstanding Partner Affiliate Leader, 2015
  • Arizona Association of Community Managers (AACM)

Seminars

Upcoming

December 10, 2025

Trends in HOA Living: What’s Changing in 2026 and Beyond

HOA living is evolving. Explore emerging trends shaping community associations in 2026 and beyond—legislative updates, sustainability initiatives, shifting homeowner expectations, and technology advances. Learn how to proactively adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

Upcoming

November 21, 2025

Lessons Learned the Hard Way: Real Stories, Real Consequences

Learn from costly mistakes made by community managers and board members. We'll show how seemingly small decisions lead to expensive legal battles and offer practical strategies to avoid these pitfalls and keep your association out of court.

Upcoming

October 31, 2025

Conflict Resolution & Handling Difficult People

Community association leaders need strong conflict management skills. Learn to resolve disputes, address challenging behavior, and maintain compliance while staying professional.

Upcoming

September 26, 2025

HOA Responsibilities vs. Homeowner Responsibilities

Which responsibilities belong to the HOA versus individual homeowners? We'll cover community property management, enforcement authority, and neighbor disputes to help maintain a compliant, well-functioning community.

June 27, 2025

Prescott 2025 HOA Legislative Update

The 2025 legislative landscape for HOA’s introduced several significant changes. Here’s a breakdown of what associations can expect.

December 20, 2024

2025 is Just Around the Corner

Top Issues for 2025: Will it be a turning point for better days ahead, or will current trends persist? What changes will associations need to make in an ever-evolving world? Goodbye 2024, hello 2025!

November 22, 2024

Owner Harassment

Are you dealing with hostile homeowners – in meetings, in person, or on social media? What are the boundaries of acceptable behavior? When does conduct cross the line into harassment or defamation? Learn about your rights and your options.

October 25, 2024

HOA Collections

This seminar will examine recent changes in legislation, the real estate market, the local economy, and the courts. Should associations make adjustments? What does the future hold? What’s working and what isn’t? Discover how new laws and trends are impacting your community’s bottom line.

September 27, 2024

Politics in Associations

It’s the most political time of the year, with candidate signs dotting every corner and political ads filling the airwaves. Are you wondering if that sign is political? Can homeowners host political assemblies within an HOA? We will discuss how HOAs regulate political activities.

February 26, 2021

Lawful but Awful | Collections

Is THAT legal? Better yet, are we going to collect? Learn from the unintentional mistakes of boards that took action that was lawful, but awful.

December 4, 2020

Election Results and How They Impact Your HOA

Now that the election is over, what changes, if any, could we see for Associations? Will the results of the election effect upcoming HOA statutes? Join us for a preview into the possible future of HOA Regulation both at the state level and nationally. Please note that this online viewing will not qualify for CAI […]

October 30, 2020

Cameras & Enforcement

As cameras get smaller and more readily available, what steps can your association take to ensure a member’s privacy and security concerns? We will discuss your association’s authority to install security cameras in common areas, to regulate cameras on a lots/units, and its potential need to adopt various record, security and privacy policies.

September 25, 2020

Water Law Basics and Opportunities

Water Law Basics and Opportunities Presented by: Clyde Halstead and James Hazlewood Do you or anyone you know ever use water? If so you should learn about where it comes from, how it is managed, and things to watch that will shape the future of water in Arizona. Join us to learn how your community […]

August 28, 2020

COVID Proofing Your Collections

Change is coming. Your community association survived the Great Recession, but this one just feels different. Will owners continue to pay voluntarily? Does a wave of lender foreclosures lie just beyond the horizon? What about bankruptcy? You may not be able to control the economy but you can control your collection strategy. You have options!

Erin McManis

Partner

Erin McManis, with prior specialization in homeowner association law, brings comprehensive experience to CHDB Law. Proficient in assessment collections, covenant enforcement, governing document interpretation, and general counsel matters, she offers adept advice on construction contracts, lien issues, and subcontractor concerns. Erin also excels in representing housing cooperatives and creditors in commercial law litigation involving the FDCPA, FCRA, and TCPA. She frequently trains new Board members and addresses community audiences on homeowner association topics.

Office Locations

Overview

Prior to joining CHDB Law, Erin McManis worked for several years in law firms specializing in representing homeowner associations. Erin has significant experience with assessment collections, covenant enforcement, governing document interpretation and other general counsel issues. Erin also advises clients on construction contracts, to make sure clients understand all applicable lien issues, progress payments, termination procedures, and legal concerns involving subcontractors. Erin also has significant experience representing housing cooperatives in litigation and general counsel matters.

Erin’s experience also extends to defending creditors, in commercial law litigation, including class actions, arising from the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act (FDCPA), the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). Erin regularly provides training to new members of the Board of Directors, and speaks throughout the community on various homeowner association topics.

Erin grew up in rural Missouri and received her law degree from Creighton University. In her free time, she enjoys watching the Arizona Cardinals. Additionally, Erin volunteers with Forever Loved Pet Sanctuary, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona.

Erin is licensed to practice law in Arizona and California, as well as the Federal District Courts in Arizona and California.

Education
  • Creighton University School of Law, JD
  • Truman State University, BA
Professional Memberships
  • Community Associations Institute (CAI)
  • Arizona Association of Community Managers (AACM)
  • The Leadership Centre

Seminars

May 7, 2024

What You Don’t Know Could Hurt You

There are over 225 state laws that have the potential to regulate your community association. How well do you really know them?

May 2, 2023

What would you do?

Back by popular demand – Arizona’s hot topics seminar presented in an entertaining and interactive format.

April 4, 2023

Vendors, Contracts & Liens Oh My!!

Do I need a contract with every vendor? What type of insurance should a vendor carry? Why did I get a lien notice? Where did our money go? What is indemnity and why is it important? How can I make a vendor fix their subpar work? We received a notice of lien, now what? These […]

Emily Cooper

Associate

Emily Cooper joins the firm as an associate in our Phoenix office. Emily litigates cases on behalf of condominium and planned community associations throughout Arizona, and manages all aspects of litigation from breach of contract claims to lien foreclosure claims. She aims to understand the needs of her clients to provide the best legal guidance for the community.

Office Locations

Overview

Emily Cooper joins the firm as an associate in our Phoenix office. Emily litigates cases on behalf of condominium and planned community associations throughout Arizona, and manages all aspects of litigation from breach of contract claims to lien foreclosure claims. She assists associations with assessment recovery, enforcement, and general counsel matters pursuant to their governing documents. Emily regularly educates associations on board duties and protections, changes in the law, and best practices to efficiently meet community goals. She aims to understand the needs of her clients to provide the best legal guidance for the community. Prior to transitioning to association law, Emily represented publicly traded banks and debt buyers for a national creditor’s rights law firm.

In her spare time, Emily enjoys experimenting in the kitchen with new recipes and techniques. This love for creating is now emulated by her toddler who loves to be in the kitchen with her. Additionally, Emily can be found journaling about her and her family’s adventures and experiences.

Education
  • Phoenix School of Law, JD
  • University of Arizona, BA
Professional Memberships
  • Community Associations Institute (CAI)
  • Arizona Association of Community Managers (AACM)
  • Arizona Bar Association
  • Arizona Women Lawyers Association
  • Mindfulness in Law Society
Speaking Engagements
  • CAI AZ Board Leadership Development Workshop, February 2025
  • “I Solemnly Swear…: Board Duties and Best Practices,” April 2024
  • “Dude, Where is My Car?: Street Parking Enforcement,” April 2024

Seminars

August 5, 2025

Lessons Learned the Hard Way: Real Stories, Real Consequences

Join us as we delve into lessons learned from decisions and actions of community managers and board members. Discover how certain decisions and actions can lead to costly legal battles and gain valuable insight on potential pitfalls and best practices.

Ember Van Vranken

Partner

Ember Van Vranken, a Partner at CHDB Law’s Phoenix office, she specializes in general counsel practice. She boasts experience in creditor defense within commercial law litigation, focusing on the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act (FDCPA), the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). Ember holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Biology from the University of California, Davis, and a Juris Doctorate from Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, where she engaged in business foundation work and UN-sponsored global business competitions. Ember embraces outdoor activities and is an avid hiker, traveler, kayaker, and fun run enthusiast.

Office Locations

Overview

Ember Van Vranken joined CHDB Law’s Phoenix office in 2019 where she works as a Partner in the Firm’s general counsel practice. She has experience defending creditors, in commercial law litigation, arising from the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act (FDCPA), the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).

Ember earned a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Biology from University of California, Davis and a Juris Doctorate with a certificate in law, science, and technology from Sandra Day O’Connor College of law at Arizona State University. During law school she participated in the innovation advancement clinic where she worked with early stage business owners to solidify their legal foundations. She also had the opportunity to travel to New York to attend the United Nation Global Goals week as a student judge for the WE Empower global business competition.

Ember grew up in Northern California where she developed an appreciation for the outdoors. In her free time she enjoys hiking with her dog, traveling, kayaking, and participating in fun runs.

Education
  • Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, JD
  • University of California Davis, BS
Professional Memberships
  • Community Associations Institute (CAI)
  • Arizona Association of Community Managers (AACM)
Awards
  • Willard H. Pederick Scholar Award
  • Cali Award for High Tech Licensing
Speaking Engagements

  • Sun City Board Member Presentation – OHOA Leadership Academy, January 2025

Eden Cohen

Associate

Eden focuses her practice on litigation, insurance defense, governing document interpretation and amendment, covenant enforcements and general counsel representation for homeowner associations. She has worked with a wide range of attorneys to counsel and defend corrections departments, law enforcement agencies, governmental entities, and other public and private entities within Arizona and across the nation in cases involving complex litigation and class action suits.

Office Locations

Overview

Eden Cohen is an Associate on our Phoenix our office. Eden focuses her practice on litigation, insurance defense, governing document interpretation and amendment, covenant enforcements and general counsel representation for homeowner associations. Prior to joining CHDB Law, Eden focused her practice defense of 42 U.S.C. § 1983 claims and constitutional law. She has worked with a wide range of attorneys to counsel and defend corrections departments, law enforcement agencies, governmental entities, and other public and private entities within Arizona and across the nation in cases involving complex litigation and class action suits.

Eden has clerked for the Honorable Judge Peter B. Swann (retired) and externed for the Honorable Judge Patricia B. Orozco (retired) at the Arizona Court of Appeals.

In her free to Eden enjoys spending time with family, cooking new recipes, and reading.

Education
  • Arizona State University Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, J.D.
  • University of Arizona, B.A. Political Science
Professional Memberships
  • Federal Bar Association, Member
  • State Bar of Arizona, Member
  • Community Associations Institute (CAI)
  • Arizona Association of Community Managers (AACM)

Ed O’Brien

Partner

Edward D. O’Brien is a Partner at CHDB Law’s Phoenix office. Ed brings a wealth of expertise encompassing litigation, general business counsel, harassment cases, assessment recovery, insurance defense, fair housing, administrative cases, and public speaking, with a specialized focus on representing community associations. Ed has practiced law in courts throughout Arizona for over ten years and his experience spans civil trials and other adversary hearings across the State of Arizona.

Office Locations

Overview

Edward D. O’Brien is a Partner in the Phoenix office of CHDB Law. His practice includes general counsel, litigation, civil injunctions, injunctions against harassment and injunctions against workplace harassment, fair housing, lien foreclosure, contract disputes, community association training, assessment recovery, insurance defense, and public speaking on legal issues. Since 2010, Ed has specialized in representing community associations. Ed has more than a decade of experience litigating in courtrooms throughout the State of Arizona and providing general counsel to Arizona businesses. Ed has also represented community associations and homeowners in large construction defects cases. Ed has conducted hundreds of civil trials and adversary hearings, state and federal, throughout the cities and counties of Arizona.

Ed earned a Juris Doctorate with a certificate in criminal practice from University of Oregon School of Law, where he was an editor of the University of Oregon Journal of Environmental Law and Litigation, and a student criminal defense attorney for the local public defender. He graduated from Arizona State University with degrees in History and Political Science.

In his free time, Ed enjoys supporting ASU and Oregon Athletics, visiting the natural wonders of Arizona, fishing, baseball, reading biographies and fiction, and participating in his Church. His charitable efforts focus on aid to the homeless, and he loves to spend time with his family and his pet dogs.

Education
  • University of Oregon School of Law, JD
  • Arizona State University, BA, BS
Professional Memberships
  • Community Associations Institute (CAI)
  • Arizona Association of Community Managers (AACM)

Seminars

November 5, 2024

Owner Harassment

Are you dealing with hostile homeowners – in meetings, in person, or on social media? What are the boundaries of acceptable behavior? When does conduct cross the line into harassment or defamation? Learn about your rights and your options.

Eadie Rudder

Partner

Eadie Rudder’s practice focuses on enforcement litigation, collections, insurance defense, and general counsel for community associations and condominium associations. She also serves the Firm’s small business clients. Before joining the Firm in March 2016, Eadie worked in various legal areas, including real estate, civil litigation, contract law, collections, and bankruptcy representation. Admitted to practice in Arizona’s state and federal courts, Eadie has represented clients in diverse business disputes and homeowners associations for foreclosure and monetary judgments. A St. Louis native, she passionately supports the St. Louis Cardinals.

Office Locations

Overview

Eadie Rudder focuses her practice in the areas of enforcement litigation, collections, insurance defense and general counsel, primarily representing community associations and condominium associations. She also represents the Firm’s small business clients.

Prior to joining the Firm in March 2016, Eadie worked primarily in the areas of real estate, both commercial and residential (including foreclosures and loan modifications); general civil litigation, contract, commercial and general litigation; collections; non-technical intellectual property; and representing creditors in bankruptcy matters.

Eadie is admitted to practice in all state and federal courts in Arizona. She has represented numerous clients in a variety of business disputes by and among competitors, contractors and the like, involving claims of breach of contract, fraud, and construction companies including mechanic and materialmen liens. She has also represented numerous homeowners associations to obtain foreclosure judgments and money judgments.

Eadie is a native of St. Louis, Missouri, and is an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.

Education
  • James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona, JD
  • Webster University, MA
  • Webster University, BA
Professional Memberships
  • Community Associations Institute (CAI)
  • Arizona Women Lawyers Association
  • Horace Rumpole Inn of Court, Master of Bench
  • Morris K. Udall American Inn of Court, Alumni
  • Arizona Association of Defense Counsel
  • Ladder Down, 2018 Graduate
Speaking Engagements
  • 2024 CLE by the Sea, Real Estate Section, “HOA Case Law and Legislative Updates”
  • 2023 CLE by the Sea, Real Estate Section, “HOA Legal Trends in the Era of Kalway v. Calabria Ranch
  • Board Education and Training, Property Management Services, Mohave County
Published Decisions
  • Cao v. PFP Dorsey Investments, LLC, 118 Arizona Cases Digest 32, 545 P.3d 459 (2024)
  • Great American Duck Races, Inc. v. Kangaroo Manufacturing, Inc., 398 F.Supp.3d 494 (D. Ariz. 2019)
  • Motzer v. Escalante, 228 Ariz. 295 (App. Div. 2 2011)

Dianne Dickman

Associate

Dianne received her Juris Doctorate from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University in 2023. During law school, Dianne held several legal externships, including with the Office of the Arizona Governor, the City of Phoenix Civil Department, a boutique real estate law firm, and an employment and municipal law firm. She currently works in the Firm’s litigation and insurance defense practice areas.

Office Locations

Overview

Dianne Dickman is an Associate and works with the Firm’s litigation and insurance defense practice areas.

Dianne received her Juris Doctorate from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University in 2023. During law school, Dianne held several legal externships, including with the Office of the Arizona Governor, the City of Phoenix Civil Department, a boutique real estate law firm, and an employment and municipal law firm. In addition, Dianne served as a Managing Editor for the Corporate and Business Law Journal.

Before law school, Dianne attended the University of Arizona, where she graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. She also served as Special Projects Coordinator and Majority Staff Intern for the Arizona State Senate.

In her free time, Dianne enjoys hiking, trying out new coffee shops, and spending time with her family.

Education
  • Sandra Day O’Conner College of Law at Arizona State University, JD
  • University of Arizona, BA, summa cum laude
Professional Memberships
  • Community Associations Institute (CAI)
  • Arizona Association of Community Managers (AACM)
  • Arizona Women Lawyers Association
  • Young Lawyers Division
Speaking Engagements
  • Sun City Board Member Presentation – OHOA Leadership Academy, January 2025