Rafael Hurtado

Rafael Hurtado is an Adjunct Professor at Thomas Jefferson School of Law (TJSL), specializing in Legal Writing instruction. He concurrently practices employment law, focusing on wage theft, discrimination, and retaliation cases, particularly representing Spanish-speaking clients. His affiliations include the San Diego La Raza Lawyers Association, where he serves as President, and prior roles as General Counsel for MANA de San Diego (2017–2019) and volunteer attorney at the Legal Aid Society of San Diego (2013–2014).

Educational background: JD from California Western School of Law and BA from University of California San Diego.

Research interests emphasize practical legal education and advocacy for marginalized communities, reflected in his pro bono work and organizational leadership. His legal practice and academic roles intersect to address systemic inequities in labor rights and access to justice.

Outside academia, he engages in diverse hobbies including photography, hiking, and language learning, driven by a passion for cultural exploration.