John Cardenas

Of Counsel

John Cardenas is Of Counsel at Aleshire & Wynder where he provides actionable legal advice on all aspects of municipal law. He combines an extensive background in administrative law and senior management over two decades in the US Foreign Service. Providing cross-enterprise legal advice and leadership, he specializes in public procurement, personnel ethics, fiscal law and infrastructure development and finance. Holding the rank of Minister Counselor in the Senior Foreign Service, he designed, negotiated and executed e-governance, fintech, and public/private partnerships across US Government portfolios in the Middle East and Latin America. With expertise in handling highly sensitive policy and national security matters, he brings the highest standards of integrity, media savvy and risk management in advising public officials and decision makers.

Prior to joining Aleshire & Wynder, John practiced in Los Angeles at O’Melveny & Myers and Olivo & Plasencia providing counsel to California public agencies on bond issuances, municipal governance, conflicts of interest, and public safety. 

His passion for sports diplomacy and promoting action sports to bring communities together drives his pro bono interests. He is a proud third generation Californian and speaks fluent Spanish. He holds an AB, magna cum laude, from Princeton University and MA and JD degrees from Stanford University.