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Overview

With a background representing plaintiffs in employment litigation, as well working with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Michael brings a unique and valuable experience defending clients in labor and employment matters in federal and state courts.

Michael always knew he wanted a career where he could help others navigate the complex legal system—a world that seems inaccessible and incomprehensible to many. Because of his enthusiasm for teamwork and passion for winning, which years of playing sports had fostered in him, he knew that a career as an attorney would be a perfect fit for him.

A stint at the EEOC and his representation of employees taught Michael that many companies simply don’t fully understand employment law or its implications, and his experience motivated him to help clients stick to the law. Michael knows that clients want to comply with the law; his goal is to ensure that they know how to do so and can navigate employee interactions in the best way possible for both parties.

Michael provides advice and counsel and aims to help clients avoid litigation. But when litigation is unavoidable, he is a fierce advocate who loves to win. He focuses much of his practice on single plaintiff cases that involve allegations of wrongful termination, discrimination, retaliation or harassment, as well as wage and hour disputes, and he draws on his experience representing plaintiffs to build rapport on both sides of a case. With a reputation as an accessible resource who is easy and straightforward to work with, Michael gives clients peace of mind that he’ll achieve the best resolution possible.

Michael serves as co-chair of APISWANA, the firm’s Asian, Pacific Islander, Southwest Asian, and North African Employee Resource Group.

Industries

Services

Education

  • J.D., University of California, Los Angeles School of Law
    • Entertainment Law Review, Chief Articles Editor
    • Moot Court Honors Program, Executive Board Member
  • B.A., University of California, Santa Barbara

Admissions

  • California
  • U.S. District Court, Central District of California

Professional Memberships and Certifications

  • Arab-American Lawyers Association of Southern California
  • LGBTQ+ Lawyers Association of Los Angeles

Languages

  • Arabic, conversational
2024 Pro Bono Achiever
Experience
  • Handles all aspects of written discovery.
  • Drafts law and motion matters, including discovery-related motions, anti-SLAPP motions, motions for terminating sanctions, and evidentiary objections.
  • Conducts and defends depositions of key witnesses; prepares clients for depositions.
  • Negotiates and secures favorable settlements.
  • Assists in trial preparation by preparing motions in limine, exhibit and witness lists, and jury instructions.
  • Represented PCB Financial in its recently announced acquisition of Northern California Bancorp where NCB and its wholly owned subsidiary Monterey County Bank are now wholly owned subsidiaries of PCB.
Webinar | May 16, 2023
2023 Workplace DEIA
Outside the Office

When he’s not in the office, you can usually find Michael outdoors.

He describes health and fitness as major parts of his life, and he loves to be outside, staying active and enjoying California’s warm weather. He plays beach volleyball nearly every Saturday with a group of friends, and he’s been an avid CrossFit enthusiast for several years.

Michael also spends as much time as possible with Blue, his Husky dog whom he calls the light of his life.