Debra Ellwood Meppen is a distinguished litigation partner at Gordon & Rees LLP, where she co-chairs the Labor and Employment Practice Group in the firm's Los Angeles office. With extensive experience in civil litigation, Debra specializes in defending both private and public entities against a...
Debra Ellwood Meppen is a distinguished litigation partner at Gordon & Rees LLP, where she co-chairs the Labor and Employment Practice Group in the firm's Los Angeles office. With extensive experience in civil litigation, Debra specializes in defending both private and public entities against a wide array of employment-related claims, including discrimination, retaliation, wrongful termination, and defamation. Her expertise extends to navigating complex issues surrounding the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), ensuring her clients remain compliant while effectively managing their workforce.
In her role, Debra is not only a fierce advocate in the courtroom but also a trusted advisor for her clients, providing strategic counseling to mitigate risks before they escalate into litigation. Her proactive approach is complemented by her involvement in key projects that focus on developing comprehensive workplace policies and training programs aimed at fostering inclusive and compliant work environments. Debra's commitment to advancing women's rights in the legal profession is evident through her active participation in organizations such as the Women Lawyers of Los Angeles Association and the California Women's Lawyers Association, where she contributes to legislative initiatives that promote equity and justice.
Debra's litigation acumen is further enhanced by her proficiency in alternative dispute resolution, allowing her to effectively resolve conflicts outside of the courtroom when appropriate. Her diverse skill set encompasses not only labor and employment law but also extends to areas such as construction law, medical malpractice, and personal injury litigation. As a member of the Defense Research Institute and the Society for Human Resource Management, Debra remains at the forefront of industry trends, ensuring that her clients benefit from her deep understanding of both legal and human resource challenges in today's dynamic workplace.
