Before joining the firm he worked in the private sector for a major investment firm. In addition to his private sector work experience, he has worked for a non-profit organization and both the executive and judicial branches of government. He is also a member of the Board of Directors of the California Bicycle Museum, and Chairman of the City of Davis' Business and Economic Development Commission.

Mr. Fernandes received his B.A. in Political Science from the University of California at Davis, and his J.D. at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, where he completed a certificated Tax concentration.