Meet Our Team

​Mrs. Peterson serves the firm in business, civil, family, and criminal law areas. She has practical experience at the Anne Arundel County, State's Attorney Office, the D.C. Superior Court, and Rising for Justice, Landlord and Tenant Program as a student attorney. Peterson has over 30 years of government policy experience. She has a B.A. from the University of Virginia, a Master’s from the University of Maryland University College, and is a 2025 Juris Doctor Candidate at the David A. Clark School of Law. She lives in Prince George’s County with her husband, Michael Peterson.

Civil Litigation | Business Law | Family Law | Criminal Litigation| Maritime| International Arbitration

Ayoola B. Fadola is a legal professional with a broad-based practice spanning civil litigation, business law, family law, criminal matters, and property disputes. He brings a multidisciplinary approach to legal problem-solving, combining strong advocacy skills with a deep understanding of regulatory and commercial frameworks.

Ayoola is actively involved in handling a range of matters including contract disputes, employment-related claims, property and landlord-tenant issues, and general civil litigation. He also supports clients in navigating sensitive family law matters and criminal proceedings, providing practical, client-focused solutions across diverse legal challenges.

In addition to his domestic practice, Ayoola has a developing focus on maritime law, international arbitration, and cross-border transactions. He holds an LL.M. in International Maritime and Commercial Law from the University of Hertfordshire and is currently pursuing an LL.M. in International Arbitration and Business Law at American University Washington College of Law. His international training informs his approach to complex disputes, particularly those involving regulatory compliance, commercial risk, and multi-jurisdictional considerations.

Ayoola has contributed to legal research and advisory work on regulatory compliance, maritime operations, and investment risk. His scholarship explores issues such as expropriation under bilateral investment treaties (BITs), investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS), and compliance challenges in the shipping and transportation sectors.

He has received recognition for his contributions to maritime security, including the African Custodian Award for Maritime Security in Nigeria and designation as Maritime Security and Counter-Terrorism Icon of the Year 2024.

Ayoola is currently preparing for admission to the U.S. bar and continues to build a practice that integrates litigation, regulatory advisory, and international dispute resolution.

Jada Smith is the Legal Secretary for The Elira Law Firm, LLC. She is driven by community service, family, and a deep love for the law. Working at the firm fuels her passion and excitement for the future ahead. She graduated early from Howard University with a Bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Psychology on the pre-law track. She plans to continue strengthening her legal career by obtaining her paralegal certification.

As Legal Secretary, Jada takes pride in being the first point of contact for the firm, ensuring that every client is greeted with professionalism, warmth, and efficiency. She is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment while supporting the firm’s operations with organization, attention to detail, and strong communication skills. Jada is committed to growing within the legal field and contributing meaningfully to the firm’s mission of serving its clients with excellence.

Kris Estrada serves as the firm’s Client Intake Coordinator, where he helps guide prospective clients through the initial stages of the firm’s intake process. As one of the first people clients may speak with, Mr. Estrada strives to provide a welcomingand professional experience from the very first interaction. 

Mr. Estrada understands that many individuals contact a law firm during very difficult, stressful, and unfamiliar circumstances. He takes pride in helping them feel informed and supported as they take important next steps in their legal matters. His work centers on clear communication, careful information gathering, and helping to ensure that any and all client inquiries are handled with great attention and particular care. 

Mr. Estrada values being part of a team committed to strong client service and thoughtful advocacy. He is dedicated to helping maintain a responsive intake process that supports both the firm and the people it serves. Outside the office, Mr. Estrada enjoys attending concerts, conducting advocacy work, and listening to The Beatles. Born and raised in California, Mr. Estrada now resides in Washington, D.C. and enjoys exploring and re-exploring the city's many sites and volunteering with Catholic parishes and organizations in the area.

​Raifle Demetrius is a paralegal at The Elira Law Firm. Raifle graduated from Tuscarora High School and went on to earn his Paralegal Certificate from George Mason University and his Bachelor's in Business Administration from American University. Raifle is family oriented and spends his free-time caring for his families needs and walking his 3 dogs (Shiba and two Huskies).

As the Human Resources Director at Elira Law Firm, I bring a diverse professional background that spans real estate, medical assisting, banking, and management. This well-rounded experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of client needs, operational excellence, and the importance of building strong, people-centered organizations.

I am deeply passionate about my work and committed to delivering the highest level of service, both internally and externally. I strive to create positive experiences for every individual I interact with, believing that exceptional customer service is at the heart of every successful organization.

A lifelong learner at heart, I embrace growth and continuous improvement, aiming to become 1% better each day. I value education and personal development, consistently seeking opportunities to expand my knowledge and refine my skills.

Above all, I am a God-fearing woman who places faith at the center of my life. I am grateful and blessed for the opportunity to serve and support the team at Elira Law Firm, and I take pride in contributing to its mission with integrity, compassion, and dedication.