Katrina Nepacena: Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo

Overview

Katrina Nepacena represents school districts, community college districts, and county offices of education in labor and employment law and in general education matters. Ms. Nepacena provides representation, advice, and counsel on a wide variety of matters, including certificated and classified employee discipline and dismissal, employment discrimination and harassment, and Public Records Act compliance.

Previously, Ms. Nepacena defended private-sector clients in employment litigation matters such as discrimination, sexual harassment, and wrongful termination claims for a national defense firm. Her experience in labor and employment law further includes developing preventative strategies for employers to comply with federal and California workplace laws. She has counseled management on various topics including parental and medical leaves, personnel investigations, and reductions in force. In the past, Ms. Nepacena has also handled complex, multiparty civil litigation that often involved preparing for trial on shortened timelines. Beyond that, she has worked in the areas of Native American law, municipal law and personal injury. Earlier in her legal career, she used her media and journalism background to help artists and entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of copyright and trademark law.

While attending law school, Ms. Nepacena interned for the San Diego Unified School District and worked for judges in federal and state courts. She externed for Judge Anthony J. Battaglia of the United States District Court, Southern District of California and interned for Judge Eddie C. Sturgeon of the San Diego Superior Court.

Honors & Recognitions

Honors in Labor and Employment Law Concentration, Dean’s Honor List, Public Service Honors Society, Pro Bono Honors Society
Recipient – Dean’s Scholarship for Ethnic & Cultural Diversity, FALSD/ PALSD Bar Scholarship, KABA-SD Bar Scholarship