Michael E. Brewer practices exclusively in the area of labor and employment law, defending employers in cases, including class and collective actions, that involve:

• Alleged sexual harassment
• Discrimination
• Retaliation
• Wrongful termination
• Employment-related torts
• Wage and hour claims

Michael regularly appears in state and federal courts and before various governmental agencies including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Department of Labor, the Department of Labor Standards Enforcement, the Employment Development Department, and the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing. He has specific experience with:

• Title VII
• The Americans with Disabilities Act
• The California Fair Employment and Housing Act
• Wage payment provisions of the California Labor Code

Michael also routinely counsels clients on:

• The proper handling of termination and discipline decisions
• Workplace accommodation issues
• Litigation avoidance
• Leaves of absence
• All other aspects of personnel management

With his advice, he strives to balance business realities with the need to ensure compliance with constantly-evolving federal and state labor laws. In addition to his representation of employers in specific matters, Michael provides training to management in all aspects of employment law and frequently speaks before business and professional associations throughout California.

Michael's clients include national retailers, hotels and employers in the real estate and title industry.

The office managing shareholder of the Walnut Creek office, Michael is active in the firm's Complex Litigation and Jury Trial, and Retail practice groups.

PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY AFFILIATIONS

• Member, Labor and Employment Law Section - State Bar of California
• Member, Board of Directors - Contra Costa County Bar Association
• Former president, Employment Law Section - Contra Costa County Bar Association
• Member, Labor and Employment Law Section - Bar Association of San Francisco
• President, Northern California Employment Roundtable