Debra has extensive experience in all aspects of labor and employment law. She has a well-established record of success in litigation, including trials and appeals. Debra has become particularly recognized for her expertise in defending clients against claims of discrimination, sexual harassment and due process; she has a special talent for getting her cases dismissed at the pleading and motion stage.
Debra has extensive experience with administrative agencies, such as the Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the State Department of Fair Employment and Housing. She trains others and conducts investigations into alleged discrimination, harassment and misconduct. In addition, Debra has handled many arbitrations and civil service commission hearings relating to employee discipline and grievances both as an advocate and advisor to the commission or the board.
Debra has represented a variety of public agency clients, including cities, counties, community college districts, special districts and law enforcement departments. In a case before the California Supreme Court -- Johnson v. City of Loma Linda --Debra established precedent which makes administrative findings binding in a subsequent civil lawsuits.