With more than 60 litigators, our law firm has the area’s largest litigation department, and the means to successfully and effectively manage all aspects of complex and often discovery-intensive litigation. As Sacramento’s largest law firm, our litigation team is large enough to staff the most substantial matters, yet tight-knit enough to remain focused and efficient. Additionally, because of our reputation in Northern California, our team continues to be challenged with contentious, high-profile, “bet-the-company” litigation. Our experience and depth enable us to provide our clients with efficient, value-driven service, and to achieve favorable results.
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Trial Experience
Downey Brand’s litigation philosophy is tied to our experience trying cases to verdict and the attendant ability to prepare cases for trial. More so today than ever before, many “litigators” have never taken a case through trial. Attorneys in Downey Brand’s litigation department are true trial lawyers with a well-earned reputation of success in the courtroom. We give our clients the best chance of resolving matters against parties (and lawyers) who want to avoid the courtroom, and give those clients who find themselves before a jury peace of mind.
Specialty Litigation
Well-known for high-profile complex business litigation, Downey Brand is also home to seasoned litigators who have developed deep experience in specialized areas of the law. Our employment litigators regularly defend employers in state and federal court against all types of labor and employment litigation; represent employers [or management] during audits and investigations; and help them with proactive training and document management. Downey Brand’s intellectual property litigators have fought and won trademark and IP infringement cases in the technology, agribusiness, financial services, and manufacturing industries, among others. Our food and agriculture litigators have handled pesticide drift, crop damage, and food labeling litigation, as well as ag-related water, IP, and Prop 65 matters.
Downey Brand’s real estate litigators represent clients from lenders and investors to developers, contractors, and public entities in a wide range of real property and land use matters. The firm has a leading eminent domain and inverse condemnation practice, which defends landowners and businesses against governmental eminent domain actions and handles complex property acquisitions from planning through trial and appeal. Our construction litigation experience spans public and private works and includes the entire construction spectrum.
Our trust and estate litigators defend estate planning documents, represent fiduciaries, and handle a wide variety of family disputes. The Firm’s family law group is well-known for handling high-stakes disputes involving family businesses and interests.
Downey Brand is also home to some of California’s top environmental and natural resources litigators. The firm is currently handling dozens of active CEQA, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and related natural resources cases at various stages of trial and on appeal across the state. Our CEQA litigation experience is uniquely broad. We have defended challenges to project- and program-level environmental impact reports (EIRs) for a wide variety of activities including water supply and water rights projects, public infrastructure, energy and mining, and residential and mixed-use development projects. Our water rights litigators have decades of experience representing clients before federal and state courts as well as administrative boards.
The Firm’s already substantial appellate and writ practice expanded in 2017 when Certified Appellate Specialist Jay-Allen Eisen brought his practice to Downey Brand. Eisen has been counsel in more than 300 appeals and appellate writs, and his name appears on over 120 published decisions. Downey Brand’s appellate practitioners handle appeals in both state and federal courts in a wide range of practice areas.
Our class action defense litigators have defended and successfully resolved numerous complicated class actions for a diverse array of local and national businesses, including clients in the manufacturing, high tech, banking and financial services, retail and consumer goods/services, healthcare, and construction sectors.
We are acutely aware that clients need not only excellent legal service but also service that is cost-effective and practical. Indeed, often one of the biggest challenges in a litigation matter can be controlling fees and costs; we understand and appreciate that, and actively work with our clients to manage legal costs.
Alternative/Early Dispute Resolution
Many of our clients’ complex litigation matters resolve through settlement. Because the expense of litigation can be significant — both in terms of legal fees and out-of-pocket costs, as well as lost management/employee time and disruption in day-to-day operations — we believe that it is never too early to think about positioning a litigation matter for a negotiated resolution. Downey Brand’s litigators are strategic and skillful negotiators, and therefore we are often able to negotiate favorable settlements without the expense of a neutral.
In cases where private mediation is our client’s best option, we excel. Given the size of our litigation department and our long-standing presence in the region, we have a depth of knowledge on the various panels of neutrals. We understand the skill sets and credentials of the region’s mediators, and are effective at advising our clients during the important decision about selection of a mediator. And because we are Sacramento’s oldest and largest law firm with a reputation of successfully representing our clients at trial, Downey Brand’s litigators often get the benefit of the doubt in mediation.
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Professionals
David R. E. Aladjem
David R. E. Aladjem
Partner

David Aladjem helps clients throughout California manage and resolve water resources management problems, especially those at the intersection of water rights, endangered species, and CEQA/NEPA.
Practice Areas:
CEQA / NEPAEndangered Species
Flood Protection Law
Groundwater Law
Public Trust Doctrine
Recycled Water
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA)
Water Law
Sacramento 916.520.5361 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5361 direct
Annie S. Amaral
Annie S. Amaral
Partner / Mentoring Partner

Clients rely on Annie Amaral for her complex business litigation and advocacy skills to navigate through federal and state courts alike, both independently and where cases are filed simultaneously in both venues.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeComplex Business Litigation
Employment Litigation
Financial Institutions
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5243 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5243 direct
Meghan M. Baker
Meghan M. Baker
Partner / Recruiting Partner

Individuals and companies looking to resolve legal disputes turn to Meghan Baker because of her client-focused approach and proven results.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeClass Action Defense
Complex Business Litigation
Employment Litigation
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Financial Institutions
Intellectual Property Litigation
Products Liability
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Trust & Estate Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5510 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5510 direct
Shelby M. Barsam
Shelby M. Barsam
Associate

Shelby Barsam uses her strong analytical skills to assist her clients in solving problems and finding creative solutions within the ever-changing landscape of California employment law. She is driven by her dedication to her work and her clients and her understanding of the unique needs of each client.
Practice Areas:
Class Action DefenseComplex Business Litigation
Employment Counseling
Employment Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5480 direct
Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5480 direct
Brenda C. Bass
Brenda C. Bass
Senior Associate

Brenda Bass advises public agency and private clients on environmental review requirements, as well as applying for and complying with water quality permits. She is also experienced in litigating CEQA and groundwater quality issues for clients throughout California.
Sacramento 916.520.5385 direct
Senior Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5385 direct
Samuel E. Bivins
Samuel E. Bivins
Senior Associate

Clients facing complex environmental litigation and water rights disputes turn to Sam Bivins for his creative analytical skills, persuasive advocacy, and strategic approach to problem solving.
Practice Areas:
CEQA / NEPAEndangered Species
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Groundwater Law
Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA)
Water Law
Water Rights Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5209 direct
Senior Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5209 direct
Ashley M. Boulton
Ashley M. Boulton
Partner

Clients facing a broad range of legal challenges rely on Ashley Boulton’s practical-minded approach to achieve effective results.
Practice Areas:
Complex Business LitigationConstruction Litigation
Environmental Enforcement Defense
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Food & Agriculture
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Food Safety & Labeling
Proposition 65
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5254 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5254 direct
Kelly M. Breen
Kelly M. Breen
Counsel

Kelly Breen has a proven track record of helping clients navigate complex business issues with a common sense approach that achieves optimal results. She applies the right balance of aggressive advocacy, robust understanding of the law, and creative problem-solving to every case she handles.
Practice Areas:
Complex Business LitigationEminent Domain & Inverse Condemnation
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Products Liability
Sacramento 916.520.5485 direct
Counsel
Sacramento 916.520.5485 direct
Monica Browner
Monica Browner
Associate

Monica Browner helps clients navigate complex environmental issues with a pragmatic and dynamic approach. Clients rely on her to minimize uncertainty in a constantly changing regulatory landscape. Monica uses her analytic skills and knowledge of state and federal environmental law to assist clients with a broad range of legal issues including compliance with various environmental regulations.
Practice Areas:
Air Quality & Climate ChangeEnvironmental Enforcement Defense
Environmental Remediation & Due Diligence
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Pipelines & Terminals
Proposition 65
Recycled Water
Water Law
Water Quality Law
Sacramento 916.520.5377 direct
Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5377 direct
David E. Cameron
David E. Cameron
Partner

David Cameron is a water resources attorney who advises and represents clients on water rights and environmental issues throughout California.
Practice Areas:
CEQA / NEPAEndangered Species
Food & Agriculture
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Groundwater Law
Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA)
Water Law
Water Rights Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5214 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5214 direct
Bradley C. Carroll
Bradley C. Carroll
Senior Associate

While working as a staff attorney at the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, Bradley Carroll developed not only strong analytical skills, but also gained a unique perspective on litigation. Bradley now uses these skills and his strong background in legal research and writing to assist businesses and individuals in all phases of litigation.
Sacramento 916.520.5299 direct
Senior Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5299 direct
Sophia B. Castillo
Sophia B. Castillo
Partner

Sophia Castillo (“Sophie”) is an environmental lawyer that helps her clients comply with, and litigate, complex issues relating to California’s Proposition 65, toxics and contaminated sites.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeCEQA / NEPA
Environmental Enforcement Defense
Environmental Remediation & Due Diligence
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Land Use
Pipelines & Terminals
Proposition 65
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Water Quality Law
Water Rights Litigation
San Francisco 415.848.4814 direct
Partner
San Francisco 415.848.4814 direct
Jackeline E. Castro
Jackeline E. Castro
Staff Attorney

Caring and zealous, Jackeline Castro firmly advocates for her client’s interests.
Sacramento 916.520.5222 direct
Staff Attorney
Sacramento 916.520.5222 direct
Anthony S. Chavez
Anthony S. Chavez
Senior Associate

Anthony Chavez represents clients in a wide array of litigation matters in state and federal court and before arbitration panels.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeComplex Business Litigation
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Privacy & Data Integrity
Proposition 65
Water Rights Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5436 direct
Senior Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5436 direct
Austin C. Cho
Austin C. Cho
Senior Associate

When facing complex water rights issues, clients look to Austin Cho for his shrewd analysis and creative solutions.
Practice Areas:
CEQA / NEPAEndangered Species
Flood Protection Law
Groundwater Law
Public Trust Doctrine
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA)
Water Law
Water Rights Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5212 direct
Senior Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5212 direct
Andrew L. Collier
Andrew L. Collier
Partner

Andrew Collier has 20 years of experience as a civil litigator specializing in complex commercial disputes.
Practice Areas:
Complex Business LitigationEnvironmental/Toxics Litigation
Financial Institutions
Food & Agriculture
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Intellectual Property Litigation
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5244 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5244 direct
My Tien T. Doan
My Tien T. Doan
Associate

My Tien Doan brings passion and skilled advocacy to assist clients in complex family law matters.
Sacramento 916.520.5330 direct
Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5330 direct
J. Patrick Doust
J. Patrick Doust
Counsel

Patrick Doust is an accomplished litigator with trial experience in a variety of contexts, including elder abuse, trusts and wills, real estate, general commercial litigation and white collar criminal defense. Patrick's extensive experience in aggressively litigating high value and often emotionally charged cases across a wide spectrum of subject matters gives him a well-rounded knowledge base to draw upon in advocating for clients.
Sacramento 916.520.5484 direct
Counsel
Sacramento 916.520.5484 direct
Jamie P. Dreher
Jamie P. Dreher
Partner

Jamie Dreher helps clients navigate the maze of options in complex corporate reorganizations and Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases.
Industry Areas:
AgribusinessConstruction
Municipalities
Nonprofit/Tax-Exempt Organizations
Real Estate
Retail
Practice Areas:
Bankruptcy & InsolvencyComplex Business Litigation
Financial Institutions
Privacy & Data Integrity
Sacramento 916.520.5478 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5478 direct
Reno 775.329.5900 direct
Cassandra M. Ferrannini
Cassandra M. Ferrannini
Partner / Executive Committee Member

Cassandra Ferrannini draws from her broad experience to assist clients in finding their best strategic position to prevent, defend, and resolve employment disputes.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeClass Action Defense
Complex Business Litigation
Employment Counseling
Employment Litigation
Intellectual Property Litigation
Privacy & Data Integrity
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sacramento 916.520.5387 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5387 direct
Sean J. Filippini
Sean J. Filippini
Partner

Sean Filippini's practice focuses on litigation with experience in multiple practice areas, including construction, real estate, and commercial disputes.
Practice Areas:
Complex Business LitigationConstruction Litigation
Food & Agriculture
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Real Estate
Sacramento 916.520.5430 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5430 direct
Janlynn R. Fleener
Janlynn R. Fleener
Partner / Chair, Litigation Practice Group

For over 25 years, a variety of businesses -- from financial institutions to national property developers and shopping center owners, governmental agencies, regional businesses, sole proprietorships, and individuals -- have turned to Jan Fleener to handle their complex business litigation.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeClass Action Defense
Complex Business Litigation
Financial Institutions
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5227 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5227 direct
David M. Fox
David M. Fox
Counsel

Dave Fox is an experienced litigator who focuses on a wide range of complex business and commercial disputes.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeComplex Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Disability Access
Employment Litigation
Insurance
Intellectual Property Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5219 direct
Counsel
Sacramento 916.520.5219 direct
Jeffrey S. Galvin
Jeffrey S. Galvin
Partner

Jeff Galvin advocates for clients in trust and estate litigation and other civil disputes. Based in Sacramento, he handles cases across Northern California and in Northern Nevada.
Sacramento 916.520.5242 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5242 direct
Reno 775.329.5900 direct
Darrin D. Gambelin
Darrin D. Gambelin
Partner

Darrin Gambelin draws from more than 20 years of experience with California and federal environmental laws to assist clients in resolving a range of permitting, compliance, and regulatory enforcement issues.
Practice Areas:
Air Quality & Climate ChangeAppellate & Writ Practice
Environmental Enforcement Defense
Environmental Remediation & Due Diligence
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Pipelines & Terminals
Water Law
Water Quality Law
San Francisco 415.848.4810 direct
Partner
San Francisco 415.848.4810 direct
Paul R. Gaus
Paul R. Gaus
Associate

Paul combines exceptional advocacy skills with specialized knowledge in bankruptcy law to offer his clients a competitive advantage in complex business disputes and bankruptcy litigation.
Practice Areas:
Bankruptcy & InsolvencyComplex Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Intellectual Property Litigation
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5382 direct
Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5382 direct
Dale Ginter
Dale Ginter
Of Counsel

Dale Ginter has represented senior secured creditors (banks, insurance companies, hedge funds), committees, and debtors in all chapters of bankruptcy.
Industry Areas:
AgribusinessConstruction
Higher Education
Municipalities
Nonprofit/Tax-Exempt Organizations
Real Estate
Sacramento 916.520.5353 direct
Of Counsel
Sacramento 916.520.5353 direct
Steven H. Goldberg
Steven H. Goldberg
Partner

Steven Goldberg has served as one of the leading environmental litigation and compliance attorneys in California for over twenty five years.
Practice Areas:
Environmental Enforcement DefenseEnvironmental Remediation & Due Diligence
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Pipelines & Terminals
Proposition 65
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sacramento 916.520.5231 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5231 direct
Daria A. Gossett
Daria A. Gossett
Associate

Daria Gossett's practice encompasses all aspects of general and complex civil litigation, spanning all phases of the litigation process, from pre-lawsuit demands to post-judgment appeals.
Sacramento 916.520.5383 direct
Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5383 direct
Nicole E. Granquist
Nicole E. Granquist
Partner / Chair, Natural Resources Group

Nicole Granquist is among an elite group of attorneys whose practice is devoted entirely to water quality regulatory compliance, enforcement defense, and litigation.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeEnvironmental Enforcement Defense
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Proposition 65
Public Trust Doctrine
Recycled Water
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Water Quality Law
Sacramento 916.520.5369 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5369 direct
Hina Gupta
Hina Gupta
Senior Associate

Hina Gupta draws from her environmental planning background to help clients navigate through regulatory, land use entitlements, and environmental issues.
Practice Areas:
Air Quality & Climate ChangeAppellate & Writ Practice
CEQA / NEPA
Endangered Species
Land Use
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
San Francisco 415.848.4834 direct
Senior Associate
San Francisco 415.848.4834 direct
Brian E. Hamilton
Brian E. Hamilton
Senior Associate

Brian Hamilton applies his litigation skills to help water clients achieve results in and out of the courtroom.
Practice Areas:
CEQA / NEPAEndangered Species
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Groundwater Law
Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA)
Water Law
Water Rights Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5340 direct
Senior Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5340 direct
Conrad K. Harder, III
Conrad K. Harder, III
Associate

Conrad Harder cares about protecting his clients and advocating for their best interests.
Sacramento 916.520.5262 direct
Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5262 direct
Sherry Hartel Haus
Sherry Hartel Haus
Partner / General Counsel

Sherry Haus is a partner in Downey Brand's litigation practice group and serves as the firm's General Counsel.
Sacramento 916.520.5490 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5490 direct
Tyler J. Horn
Tyler J. Horn
Associate

Tyler Horn's philosophy of practice is to be a strong advocate for his clients and offer passionate, reasonable, and thoughtful problem-solving solutions throughout the litigation process.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeComplex Business Litigation
Employment Litigation
Trust & Estate Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5378 direct
Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5378 direct
Tyson E. Hubbard
Tyson E. Hubbard
Partner

Tyson Hubbard is an experienced litigator who focuses on trust and estate disputes. Tyson's clients rely upon him to steer an efficient and effective path. He draws from more than a decade of litigation experience across a wide range of matters, as well as from his personal experience as a trustee of a family trust.
Sacramento 916.520.5216 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5216 direct
Jaismin Kaur
Jaismin Kaur
Associate

Jaismin is a problem-solver who works relentlessly to deliver the best results for her clients.
Sacramento 916.520.5496 direct
Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5496 direct
Natalie C. Kirkish
Natalie C. Kirkish
Senior Associate

Natalie Kirkish has dedicated her career to environmental law and public service in order to solve complex environmental challenges for her private and public agency clients.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeCEQA / NEPA
Endangered Species
Land Use
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Water Law
San Francisco 415.848.4844 direct
Senior Associate
San Francisco 415.848.4844 direct
Christopher Miles Kolkey
Christopher Miles Kolkey
Senior Associate

Christopher Kolkey has a wealth of experience with all phases of litigation and is a passionate advocate for his clients.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeComplex Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Intellectual Property Litigation
Trust & Estate Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5320 direct
Senior Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5320 direct
Alexandra K. LaFountain
Alexandra K. LaFountain
Senior Associate

Alex LaFountain advises clients on a wide array of employment matters and helps them promptly resolve disputes with current and former employees.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeClass Action Defense
Complex Business Litigation
Employment Counseling
Employment Litigation
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5245 direct
Senior Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5245 direct
Michael J. Laino
Michael J. Laino
Associate

Michael Laino is a “fighter” who applies a vigorous and dynamic style of advocacy to complex disputes throughout the Sacramento and Northern California area, at trial and appellate levels, in both state and federal court.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeComplex Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Employment Litigation
Intellectual Property Litigation
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5360 direct
Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5360 direct
Joseph K. Little
Joseph K. Little
Associate

Joseph Little’s practice utilizes cost-effectiveness, rapid responsiveness, creativity, and attention to detail to achieve unqualified client satisfaction.
Sacramento 916.520.5203 direct
Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5203 direct
Thomas E. Marrs
Thomas E. Marrs
Partner

Tom Marrs draws from extensive litigation experience to efficiently resolve complex family law matters for clients throughout California. Known for his practical approach, Tom skillfully advances his clients' interests, resulting in successful and timely resolutions.
Practice Areas:
Complex Business LitigationFamily Law
Food & Agriculture
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Real Estate
Sacramento 916.520.5210 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5210 direct
Christian L. Marsh
Christian L. Marsh
Partner / Executive Committee Member

Public agencies and private companies turn to Christian Marsh for advice on regulatory and land use entitlement issues governing real estate developments, ground and surface water supply projects, renewable and non-renewable energy facilities, mining operations and processing plants, and port and waterfront developments.
Practice Areas:
Air Quality & Climate ChangeCEQA / NEPA
Endangered Species
Groundwater Law
Land Use
Pipelines & Terminals
Public Trust Doctrine
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Recycled Water
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Water Law
Water Rights Litigation
San Francisco 415.848.4830 direct
Partner
San Francisco 415.848.4830 direct
Mary J. Martinelli
Mary J. Martinelli
Partner / Marketing Partner

As a Certified Family Law Specialist*, Mary Martinelli is uniquely qualified to resolve complex family law matters with an emphasis on business concerns — earning her clients' trust for more than thirty years.
Sacramento 916.520.5278 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5278 direct
John C. McCarron
John C. McCarron
Partner / Co-Chair, Food & Ag Group

For nearly three decades, John McCarron has focused his practice on assisting clients with complex business disputes.
Practice Areas:
Class Action DefenseComplex Business Litigation
Employment Litigation
Food & Agriculture
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Food Safety & Labeling
Products Liability
Proposition 65
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sacramento 916.520.5450 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5450 direct
Scott D. McElhern
Scott D. McElhern
Partner

Clients turn to Scott McElhern to provide his legal insight to map out a strategy for success. He focuses his practice on litigation matters involving construction, eminent domain, real estate and commercial disputes.
Practice Areas:
Construction LitigationEminent Domain & Inverse Condemnation
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sacramento 916.520.5367 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5367 direct
Clifton J. McFarland
Clifton J. McFarland
Partner

Clif McFarland is an experienced environmental lawyer with a strong science background who represents aerospace, energy, real estate, natural resources and other companies and investor groups.
Practice Areas:
Environmental Enforcement DefenseEnvironmental Remediation & Due Diligence
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sacramento 916.520.5477 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5477 direct
Daniel J. McVeigh
Daniel J. McVeigh
Of Counsel

During the last 35 years, Dan McVeigh has earned the reputation as one of the preeminent employment litigators in the Sacramento region.
Industry Areas:
AgribusinessConstruction
Healthcare
Municipalities
Nonprofit/Tax-Exempt Organizations
Retail
Practice Areas:
Complex Business LitigationDisability Access
Employment Counseling
Employment Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5438 direct
Of Counsel
Sacramento 916.520.5438 direct
Bret F. Meich
Bret F. Meich
Partner

With a proven track record of trying and winning complex business cases, Bret Meich counsels clients through a range of strategic decisions in order to effectively resolve disputes. He practices primarily in the area of general litigation, and he emphasizes professional, high-quality advocacy from case inception through post-trial appellate work.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeComplex Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Employment Litigation
Intellectual Property Litigation
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Water Rights Litigation
Reno 775.997.7418 direct
Partner
Reno 775.997.7418 direct
Stephen J. Meyer
Stephen J. Meyer
Of Counsel

Stephen Meyer has more than forty years of experience with complex business litigation with a particular focus in the last several years on food and agriculture.
Practice Areas:
Complex Business LitigationEnvironmental Enforcement Defense
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Financial Institutions
Food & Agriculture
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5437 direct
Of Counsel
Sacramento 916.520.5437 direct
James M. Morris
James M. Morris
Of Counsel

For nearly five decades, Jim Morris has represented clients, from manufacturers to farmers, in virtually every phase of California agribusiness, blending his knowledge of agriculture with his trial skills.
Stockton 209.472.3910 direct
Of Counsel
Stockton 209.472.3910 direct
Meredith E. Nikkel
Meredith E. Nikkel
Partner

Meredith Nikkel tackles water and environmental disputes with the discerning eye of a litigator and the innovative thinking of a strong problem solver.
Practice Areas:
CEQA / NEPAEndangered Species
Groundwater Law
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA)
Water Law
Water Rights Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5211 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5211 direct
Kevin M. O’Brien
Kevin M. O’Brien
Partner

Kevin O’Brien assists clients throughout California in water rights, water quality, endangered species, and environmental matters. His clients include water districts, cities, counties, private landowners, real estate developers, wineries and mining companies.
Practice Areas:
Public Trust DoctrineRecycled Water
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA)
Water Law
Water Rights Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5235 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5235 direct
Kathryn L. Oehlschlager
Kathryn L. Oehlschlager
Partner

With more than fifteen years of experience in environmental law, Kathryn Oehlschlager has built a robust practice spanning environmental and land use compliance counseling, state and federal enforcement defense, and major litigation.
Industry Areas:
AerospaceAgribusiness
Construction
Higher Education
Municipalities
Nonprofit/Tax-Exempt Organizations
Real Estate
Water Rights & Resources
Practice Areas:
Air Quality & Climate ChangeCEQA / NEPA
Endangered Species
Environmental Enforcement Defense
Environmental Remediation & Due Diligence
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Flood Protection Law
Groundwater Law
Land Use
Proposition 65
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Water Law
Water Quality Law
San Francisco 415.848.4820 direct
Partner
San Francisco 415.848.4820 direct
Kelly L. Pope
Kelly L. Pope
Partner / Pro Bono Partner

Kelly Pope is an experienced litigator whose practice focuses on representing clients in family law, business litigation, and business bankruptcy matters.
Sacramento 916.520.5362 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5362 direct
Meghan A. Quinn
Meghan A. Quinn
Senior Associate

Meghan Quinn assists clients with resolving complex regulatory compliance issues, enforcement actions, and citizens suits arising under federal and state laws by working closely with technical experts to address specific client needs.
Practice Areas:
CEQA / NEPAEndangered Species
Environmental Enforcement Defense
Environmental Remediation & Due Diligence
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Pipelines & Terminals
Proposition 65
Water Quality Law
San Francisco 415.848.4816 direct
Senior Associate
San Francisco 415.848.4816 direct
Christopher I. Rendall-Jackson
Christopher I. Rendall-Jackson
Counsel

Christopher Rendall-Jackson provides nuanced and powerful representation in environmental and utilities matters.
Practice Areas:
Air Quality & Climate ChangeCEQA / NEPA
Endangered Species
Environmental Enforcement Defense
Environmental Remediation & Due Diligence
Land Use
Recycled Water
Water Law
Water Quality Law
San Francisco 415.848.4848 direct
Counsel
San Francisco 415.848.4848 direct
Steven P. Saxton
Steven P. Saxton
Of Counsel

For nearly 30 years, public agencies, businesses and agricultural landowners have looked to Steve Saxton to successfully handle water, resources, and land use litigation and representation in both private negotiations and in state and federal courts throughout California.
Practice Areas:
CEQA / NEPAEndangered Species
Flood Protection Law
Groundwater Law
Public Trust Doctrine
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA)
Water Law
Water Rights Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5435 direct
Of Counsel
Sacramento 916.520.5435 direct
Rebecca R. A. Smith
Rebecca R. A. Smith
Partner

Clients facing challenging, sensitive, or complex water law issues rely on Rebecca Smith’s expertise to best map their path.
Practice Areas:
CEQA / NEPAEndangered Species
Flood Protection Law
Food & Agriculture
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Groundwater Law
Land Use
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA)
Water Law
Water Rights Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5281 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5281 direct
Robert P. Soran
Robert P. Soran
Partner

Known as a strong advocate and litigator with 25 years of experience, clients throughout California turn to Bob Soran for his expertise in compliance with federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations.
Practice Areas:
Air Quality & Climate ChangeEnvironmental Enforcement Defense
Environmental Remediation & Due Diligence
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Food & Agriculture
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Pipelines & Terminals
Proposition 65
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sacramento 916.520.5364 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5364 direct
Trina L. Spivack
Trina L. Spivack
Staff Attorney

Clients seeking to navigate challenging family law matters in an efficient, straightforward manner seek Trina Spivack's counsel in resolving property division, financial, and custody issues.
Sacramento 916.520.5425 direct
Staff Attorney
Sacramento 916.520.5425 direct
Elizabeth B. Stallard
Elizabeth B. Stallard
Partner

Elizabeth Stallard helps clients navigate complex employment and business issues with a common sense and pragmatic approach. A seasoned and creative problem-solver, Elizabeth advises clients with workforce management issues and efficiently resolves disputes either through litigation or alternative dispute resolution.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeClass Action Defense
Complex Business Litigation
Disability Access
Employment Counseling
Employment Litigation
Intellectual Property Litigation
Privacy & Data Integrity
Products Liability
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sacramento 916.520.5238 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5238 direct
Reno 775.329.5900 direct
M. Max Steinheimer
M. Max Steinheimer
Of Counsel

Max Steinheimer is a highly respected trial lawyer with a deserved reputation for success in the courtroom. He has served as lead trial counsel in over 40 jury trials in state and federal courts throughout California and Nevada.
Practice Areas:
Complex Business LitigationConstruction Litigation
Eminent Domain & Inverse Condemnation
Food & Agriculture
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Insurance
Products Liability
Stockton 209.472.3926 direct
Of Counsel
Stockton 209.472.3926 direct
Sacramento 916.444.1000 direct
Michael J. Thomas
Michael J. Thomas
Partner

Mike Thomas is one of a few registered patent attorneys based in Sacramento with a law practice focused on intellectual property litigation, including prosecuting and defending claims involving patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets.
Practice Areas:
Complex Business LitigationEmployment Litigation
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Intellectual Property & Licensing
Intellectual Property Litigation
Privacy & Data Integrity
Products Liability
Sacramento 916.520.5310 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5310 direct
Melissa A. Thorme
Melissa A. Thorme
Partner

For over 30 years, industrial and municipal clients have regularly turned to Melissa Thorme to assist in resolving their environmental compliance issues and negotiating or litigating their regulatory enforcement actions.
Industry Areas:
AgribusinessMunicipalities
Nonprofit/Tax-Exempt Organizations
Real Estate
Water Rights & Resources
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeCEQA / NEPA
Endangered Species
Environmental Enforcement Defense
Environmental Remediation & Due Diligence
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Land Use
Proposition 65
Recycled Water
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Water Quality Law
Sacramento 916.520.5376 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5376 direct
San Francisco 415.848.4800 direct
Patrick F. Veasy
Patrick F. Veasy
Senior Associate

Clients facing complex environmental issues rely on Patrick Veasy for his detail-oriented approach and strong analytical skills to achieve effective results.
Practice Areas:
Air Quality & Climate ChangeCEQA / NEPA
Endangered Species
Environmental Enforcement Defense
Environmental Remediation & Due Diligence
Environmental/Toxics Litigation
Pipelines & Terminals
Proposition 65
Recycled Water
Water Law
Water Quality Law
Sacramento 916.520.5448 direct
Senior Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5448 direct
Anthony L. Vignolo
Anthony L. Vignolo
Partner

With an insurance defense background, it was a natural fit for Anthony Vignolo to focus his legal practice in the areas of civil litigation and insurance law.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeClass Action Defense
Complex Business Litigation
Employment Litigation
Food & Agriculture
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Insurance
Products Liability
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Trust & Estate Litigation
Stockton 209.472.3920 direct
Partner
Stockton 209.472.3920 direct
William R. Warne
William R. Warne
Partner / Chairman

Bill Warne has built a reputation as one of Sacramento's top trial lawyers. Bill is retained by individuals, companies, and corporations with complex, high-profile, "bet the company" litigation issues.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeClass Action Defense
Complex Business Litigation
Employment Litigation
Intellectual Property Litigation
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Sacramento 916.520.5217 direct
Partner
Sacramento 916.520.5217 direct
Matthew J. Weber
Matthew J. Weber
Partner / Executive Committee Member

Clients that find themselves entangled in intricate legal disputes turn to Matt Weber not only for his legal skills, but because he also takes the time to understand his clients' issues before he recommends a litigation strategy.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeComplex Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Financial Institutions
Food & Agriculture
Food & Agriculture Litigation
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Stockton 209.472.3922 direct
Partner
Stockton 209.472.3922 direct
Sacramento 916.444.1000 direct
Madeline R. Weissman
Madeline R. Weissman
Associate

Madeline Weissman uses her background in litigation, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and water law to advise public agencies and private clients on regulatory and land use entitlement issues governing real estate developments, renewable energy facilities, applications for and compliance with water quality permits, and ground and surface water issues throughout California.
Practice Areas:
CEQA / NEPAGroundwater Law
Land Use
Real Estate
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Regulatory Law & Business Permitting
Water Law
Water Quality Law
San Francisco 415.848.4812 direct
Associate
San Francisco 415.848.4812 direct
Jennifer L. Williams
Jennifer L. Williams
Counsel

Regional public entities, businesses, sole proprietorships, and individuals have benefited from Jenny Williams's legal counsel. In today's challenging economic climate, an increase in case filings have reduced the court's availability to hear oral arguments and resulted in significant delays in obtaining trial dates.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeComplex Business Litigation
Construction Litigation
Eminent Domain & Inverse Condemnation
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Stockton 209.472.3918 direct
Counsel
Stockton 209.472.3918 direct
Sacramento 916.444.1000 direct
Wiemond Wu
Wiemond Wu
Associate

Wiemond Wu focuses on delivering clients with clever, cost-effective, and concrete solutions in a wide range of litigation disputes.
Practice Areas:
Appellate & Writ PracticeComplex Business Litigation
Employment Litigation
Real Property & Land Use Litigation
Trust & Estate Litigation
Sacramento 916.520.5380 direct
Associate
Sacramento 916.520.5380 direct