*Justin Singerman, Esq.
Managing Partner
Mr. Singerman is the managing partner of our Los Angeles and Orange County offices. He has exclusively practiced defense Workers’ Compensation for more than 15 years, defending claims across southern and northern California. He also handles discriminatory claims under Labor Code section 132a and Serious and Willful Misconduct claims under Labor Code Section 4553. In addition, he has lectured at several Insurance Educational Association (IEA) classes and provides seminars for employers and claims professionals on a regular basis.
He is well versed and successful in settling cases early to expedite file closure. He is also a seasoned litigator who has secured more than 25 “Take Nothings.” Mr. Singerman leverages his familiarity of applicant attorneys as well as his tenured experience to enable him to anticipate where a claim is going long before it gets there, then uses this knowledge as a vehicle for early case resolution.
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Mr. Singerman is a favorite among clients with his creative thinking, quick responsiveness, and attention to detail.
Education
Mr. Singerman is a certified specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from UCLA in 2004. He continued on to receive his Juris Doctorate from Southwestern University School of Law and was admitted to the California State Bar in 2010. Mr. Singerman has been a California State Bar Certified Specialist in Workers' Compensation Law since 2014.
About Me
I am a Los Angeles native who loves to enjoy the city with my beautiful wife, Melissa, and our best friend Luna, “Bear,” a mini Australian Shepherd. When I am not enjoying the city, I am spending time with my family. I especially love to adventure with my adorable nieces and nephew. Staying fit and healthy is important to me and this year I really challenged myself, completing my first sprint triathlon.
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​​​Traveling is a huge passion of mine. I have been blessed to visit some amazing places, soaking up different cultures and trying so much FOOD. Some of my most memorable experiences are hiking Rainbow Mountain in Peru, scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef, swimming in the Blue Grotto in Capri, and proposing on top of the Eiffel Tower.
​​​Michael Jordan said it best, “You must expect great things of yourself before you can do them.”
Natalie Rafaelian, Esq.
Partner
Ms. Rafaelian has practiced defense Workers’ Compensation for the past 10 years. She excels at early resolution and being responsive to clients’ inquiries. Ms. Rafaelian’s ability to persuade extends into the courtroom, where she has secured several “Take Nothings.” Ms. Rafaelian was hand selected to join Singerman Law because the Firm recognized her innate ability to communicate as well as her keen awareness to detail. She comes from a large national Workers’ Compensation firm and has extensive experience in all aspects of Workers’ Compensation claims including post-termination, AOE/COE, life pension, contribution and death claims. She has a strong background in pre-trial litigation and trial work as well. Ms. Rafaelian is committed to ensuring her clients achieve the most cost-efficient representation while passionately and purposefully advocating all defenses.
Education
Ms. Rafaelian graduated UCLA with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor degree in Anthropology. She then proceeded to obtain a Juris Doctorate from Southwestern University School of Law, where she graduated summa cum laude and was admitted to the California State Bar in 2012.
About Me
Born in Yerevan, Armenia, I moved to the United States at the age of 6 and was raised in Burbank, California. My true joy is spending time with my family and friends. I have two beautiful boys who I adore. Nothing beats traveling to Europe or playing a good round of tennis, which I played competitively for more than a decade.
I strive by Arthur Ashe’s saying, “From what we get, we can make a living, what we give, however, makes a life.”
Alison Giesler, Esq.
Senior Associate
Ms. Giesler has practiced Workers’ Compensation defense since 2011. She served in positions ranging from clerk to hearing representative, and finally as an attorney, specializing in defending employers, insurance companies and third-party administrators. She finds communication to be key with clients, opposing counsel, and supporting staff in the swift, cost-effective resolution of litigated claims. Ms. Giesler has experience in all stages of litigation, from the initiation of a claim to post settlement lien resolution. She has a strong background in negotiation and prides herself on vigorously advocating for her clients.
Education
Ms. Giesler obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Austin College in Sherman, Texas. After working as a television news editor/producer, she attended Southwestern University School of Law and obtained her Juris Doctorate Degree. She was admitted to the California State Bar in 2017 and has only practiced defense Workers' Compensation.
About Me
Born in Pasadena, California, I currently live in Altadena with my husband and our French bulldog - “Piglet.” Always active, I enjoy camping and sailing in my free time and particularly take pleasure in exploring our beautiful coastline and the Channel Islands. I am an avid cyclist, and participate each year in the Bike MS Coastal Challenge, an event dear to my heart, which supports research for Multiple Sclerosis.
I embrace living life to its fullest. As Lucille Ball said, “I’d rather regret the things I’ve done than regret the things I haven’t done.”
Alex Kidd, Esq.
Senior Associate
Alex has practiced workers’ compensation defense for over 15 years. He focuses exclusively on representing insured and self-insured employers in workers’ compensation defense and related matters. Alex litigates high-exposure work injuries, discrimination claims, as well as Serious and Willful issues. He negotiates the resolution of large loss claims, and has assisted clients in subrogation recovery on third party credit issues. He has represented clients engaged in a wide variety of businesses including but not limited to the following: transportation, construction; manufacturing; engineering; service; hospitality; retail stores; and healthcare. He handles work-related injuries, repetitive trauma, wage differential, and permanent and total disability cases.
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Alex is an aggressive litigator who specializes in high exposure and complex claims for our clients. He is an experienced trial attorney and has successfully litigated complex issues before the WCAB, whether they are large self-insureds or public entities.
Education
Alex grew up in Central California. He attended University of California, Berkeley where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy. He attended Southwestern Law School where he obtained his Juris Doctorate degree.
About Me
Alex enjoys cycling, running on the beach in Santa Monica, spending time with his wife, Normandy, and his dogs, Papillon “Kiwi” and toy Poodle “Lola.” When not in Court, Alex enjoys literature, hiking, grilling, cooking, and plans to run a half marathon in the near future. In his spare time, he performs stand-up and sketch comedy. He has seen every film on the AFI top 100 and is currently completing a project reading every Pulitzer Prize winning novel for fiction.
Jason Lee, Esq.
Senior Associate
Mr. Lee has practiced Workers’ Compensation defense since 2010. He has served in positions ranging from file clerk, legal clerk while completing law school and finally as an attorney, representing employers, third-party administrators, and insurance companies. Mr. Lee prides himself on quick and effectual communication with his clients and going the extra mile to obtain the best outcome. He strives for quick resolution for his clients and will vigorously advocate for them.
Education
Mr. Lee graduated From Fresno State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He then proceeded to obtain a Juris Doctorate from Lincoln Law School of Sacramento and was admitted to the California State Bar in 2021.
About Me
Born in Fresno, California, I currently live in Laguna Hills with my wife and our adorable pets, Louie and Monkey. Forever active, I enjoy working out, playing sports, and exploring Orange County and Texas with my wonderful wife. I especially enjoy going to concerts, going on vacation with my family, and trying new restaurants.
I believe in pushing life to the limits of your abilities and beyond. Michael Jordan said it best, “You have competition every day because you set such high standards for yourself that you have to go out every single day and live up to those standards.”
Alex Ta, Esq.
Partner
Mr. Ta comes to the firm with over 20 years of experience in defending insurance companies, third-party administrators, employers, and municipalities in all aspects of workers' compensation law throughout the State of California. He specializes in cases with high-exposure and complex legal issues, and has built a reputation with clients as someone who can cut through the fog and resolve cases that are considered 'un-settleable.'
In addition to handling basic workers' compensation cases, Mr. Ta has specialized in various other areas of the law. He is well versed in the intricacies of defending cities, counties, and other municipalities in Labor Code Section 4850 cases, with all their complex presumptions. He is also well known among many clients with expertise in 'carve-out' matters under the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) system. Mr. Ta has also worked closely with various professional sports organizations in the defense of claims by athletes at the twilight of their careers.
Education
Mr. Ta is a graduate of the University of California, at Irvine, in 1992, with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (emphases in political economy) and Minor in English Literature. He received his Juris Doctor from the Catholic University of America - Columbus School of Law, in Washington, D.C., in 1995.
About Me
I was born in Vietnam and came to the United States of America with my father as political refugees in 1980. After a 'stint' in the frigid lands near Anchorage, Alaska, we settled in sunny Southern California. My wife and I have four beautiful daughters. As a family, we enjoy traveling, seeing and exploring new places and learning all we can about the national parks of our beautiful country.
Thanh Ho, Esq.
Senior Associate
Mr. Ho has exceptional legal experience in Workers’ Compensation both in California and Massachusetts, where he defended insurance companies, third-party administrators, employers, sport teams, and PEOs. In addition to Workers’ Compensation law, Mr. Ho has extensive civil and appellate law experience as a law clerk at Los Angeles Superior Courts and Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office. In combining his civil, appellate, and administrative law knowledge, Mr. Ho is able to cost-effectively and expeditiously resolve all aspects of Workers’ Compensation matters.
Education
Mr. Ho graduated from California State University, Long Beach, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. He then proceeded to obtain a Juris Doctorate, Cum Laude, from New England Law | Boston.
About Me
In 1993, my family and I immigrated to the United States and made beautiful Southern California our new home. I am a self-proclaimed “week-end warrior,” who enjoys the outdoors, especially hiking, back-packing, and wilderness camping in remote areas throughout California. I am also a “foodie,” who loves to explore new and exotic cuisines of all cultures and backgrounds.
Sam Brar, Esq.
Managing Partner
Mr. Brar is the managing partner of our Central California office. He has experience in Worker’s Compensation defense of over 10 years. During this time, he has worked with a large variety of clients including the following: self-insured entities, insurance carriers, municipalities, large nationwide retailers, farming and agriculture, construction and trucking and logistics.
His focus is on having close relationships with his clients, which in turns leads to a heightened sense of accountability and an unwavering desire to excel at responsiveness and performance on the claims he handles. He understands that California is a difficult landscape for employers and insurance carriers when it comes to Worker’s Compensation, but there is much that can still be controlled to effectively manage both the course and outcome of claims.
Education
Mr. Brar obtained his Bachelors in Science in the field of Electrical Engineering at the University of California Davis. After a brief career in the semi-conductor industry, he attended the San Joaquin College of Law in the Central Valley to obtain his law degree.
About Me
I am a first generation Indian American with Punjabi immigrant parents. They started in this country with nothing and taught me important principles including that what you seek must be earned. I have applied that to my own life with the privilege of a higher education to assist me on my way. I am a father to two beautiful little girls, who along with hobbies like golf, concerts, snowboarding and live sporting events, take up my free time outside work.
Violet Babassi, Esq.
Associate
Ms. Babassi has practiced for more than a decade in civil litigation and defense workers’ compensation, where she defended employers, insurance companies, third-party administrators and homeowners. She specializes in lien resolution and resolves most liens within 30-45 days upon receipt of executed order finalizing the case. Ms. Safarian Babassi is very personable, believes open and honest communication with clients is vital, and takes pride in her negotiation skills. She is aggressive, highly responsive, cost-effective and efficient in early case resolution.
Education
Ms. Safarian Babassi graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, receiving a Bachelor’s of Science in Social Science with a concentration in Biology. She attended University of West Los Angeles, School of Law where she obtained her Juris Doctorate degree.
About Me
I reside in San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, with my husband and beautiful daughter. I am of Armenian descent and speak fluent Armenian as well as Farsi. Family is my heart and joy; I absolutely cherish being a mother and actively involved in my daughter’s school and extracurricular activities. Camping trips, connecting with nature, and being physically active outdoors are the simple things that bring serenity to my life. In my free time, I love to read and dive into a good book. I believe in never taking “no” for an answer. The key to overcoming obstacles and being successful is a persistent mindset: when you fall, you must get right back up and try again.
Robert Lance, Esq.
Managing Partner
Mr. Lance is the managing partner of our Marina Del Rey office. He has practiced Workers’ Compensation defense for the past 20 years. Most recently, he served as managing attorney/partner for a reputable firm for nearly a decade while handling matters including subrogation, 132A, S&W as well as providing presentations for numerous insurance carriers/brokers and employers.
Before working in the field of workers’ compensation, Mr. Lance was involved in various aspects of toxic tort and general civil litigation, which included jury trials throughout Southern California. In addition, Mr. Lance was President of the Beverly Hills Bar Association Barristers, where he lectured in the field of workers’ compensation and provided free legal clinics for Westside seniors and legal education classes for Los Angeles high school students.
Education
Mr. Lance graduated from Emory University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts. He attended University of La Verne where he obtained a Juris Doctorate. After obtaining his J.D., Mr. Lance obtained legal training at the Law Faculty at the University of Barcelona, Spain.
About Me
Having been born in Montreal, Quebec and raised in Queens, New York, I have been fortunate enough to have visited more than 50 countries with some of my favorite stops being Montevideo, Uruguay; Barcelona, Spain; and Koh Lanta, Thailand. Speaking five languages has always been a plus for visiting and living overseas. Besides traveling, I am an avid athlete who is fortunate enough to still spend much of my free time playing basketball and soccer, pitching or working on my gymnast exercises at Golds Gym. I enjoy spending time with my three children who too are avid athletes in baseball and football. In the fall I can be seen supporting my beloved New York Giants and in the spring I can be found rooting for my New York Mets. Yet, I will still have a place every four years for the Uruguayan Football Club, La Celeste.
Natalie Anne Lluis, Esq.
Senior Associate
​Ms. Lluis has practiced Workers’ Compensation defense since 2020. She prides herself in building client relationships that lead to trust and excellent communication. Her resilience and commitment to her clients result in early resolution of her cases with favorable outcomes. In the courtroom, her professionalism results in establishing a reputation of candor and respect with the court. With a strong background in communication, Ms. Lluis has acquired a skill which has propelled her to succeed in litigation as well as relationships with opposing counsels. She excels in early, cost effective settlements and mitigates exposure through her aggressive litigation style.
Education
​Ms. Lluis obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology as well as a minor in Business Law from USC in 2017. She continued her studies and received her juris doctorate from Southwestern University school of Law, and was admitted to the California state bar.
About Me
I was born in Pasadena and raised in the Glendale area. I love to hike, box, spend quality time with my dogs, but my passion is to travel. As a young child, some of my favorite memories are traveling with my family, learning about new cultures, and experiencing of a variety of foods and restaurants.
William Smail, Esq.
Senior Associate
Mr. Smail has practiced in the area of Workers’ Compensation defense for twenty-six years. During his career, he has litigated intricate and complex cases involving extensive discovery, high exposure liability, and contentious trials. His vast experience has earned him the trust of his clients in all aspects of case handling, from settlements all the way to the appeals process. Prior to joining Singerman Law, Mr. Smail worked as a partner and managing attorney with a prominent Southern California workers’ compensation defense firm.
Education
Mr. Smail earned his Bachelor’s degree from La Salle University in 1992, where he graduated magna cum laude with a degree in English. He went on to graduate cum laude from the University of Miami School of Law in Miami, FL in 1996. He has been a member of the California State Bar since 1997.
About Me
I was born and raised in New Jersey, and have lived in Southern California since 1996. I grew up as a sports lover, and played football and baseball. I am still a huge fan of all Philadelphia teams (Fly Eagles Fly!) and have successfully convinced my wife and five beautiful children to root for them as well. On weekends, I love to spend as much time with family as possible, and we enjoy traveling, backyard cook-outs, and going to the beach.
Eraclis Pelargos
Senior Associate
Mr. Pelargos has over 10 years of workers compensation defense experience and successfully litigated both case-in-chief and lien claims from case commencement through trial. Mr. Pelargos has experience managing various caseloads and has been recognized among clients for his high closure rate. He strives to mitigate his client's exposure through his aggressive litigation, while simultaneously moving to shut down claims as soon as possible. Mr. Pelargos' experience and reputation with opposing counsel help expedite closures and achieve great results for his clients. He prides himself in working hard to achieve his client's goals and minimize their overall litigation costs.
Education
Mr. Pelargos obtained his B.A. in Political Science from UCLA, J.D. from Albany Law School in New York, and was admitted to the California State Bar. While at UCLA, he co-founded and was the vice president of the Hellenic-American Student Organization (Greek-American club) and received the Jim Papangelin Memorial Scholarship Award for his exemplary work in the Greek community.
About Me
Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my wife, 2 kids, and traveling the globe. I believe that travel allows one to learn from other cultures and gain a better understanding of life and how others view it. This, in turn, allows you to grow and be a better, more rounded individual. If I am not traveling, I enjoy playing basketball and spending time with friends and family. Also, as a first generation Greek-American, I enjoy staying involved in the Greek community and teaching my children about our culture and heritage.
Michelle Stupel Samya
Senior Associate
Ms. Stupel Samya’s civil and criminal background has contributed to her successful 10 year workers’ compensation career. She has prevailed at several AOE/COE trials and arbitrations on the issue of contribution. Ms. Stupel excels on securing perjuring testimony against applicants to facilitate nuisance settlement, mitigate exposure and obtain Take Nothings. She embraces the importance of consistent and prompt communication with her clients to expedite resolution while keeping them informed as to the current events of the claim.
Education
Michelle Stupel Samya graduated magna cum laude from California State University, San Bernardino, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology. She obtained her Juris Doctor from the University of West Los Angeles School of Law, and was subsequently admitted to the California State Bar in 2015.
About Me
I was born and raised in Sweden and moved to the United States in 2005. My family is everything. I absolutely love to travel. I am a former athlete and trainer and remain active by working out at the gym.
Sam Saadat
Associate
Mr. Saadat is a distinguished Associate Attorney in the Northern California, Bay Area office, with a dedicated focus on defense Workers' Compensation law since 2018. Mr. Saadat has handled all aspects of Workers' Compensation law, including trials, depositions, doctor cross-examinations, petitions for reconsideration and removal, arbitration, death claims, and contribution. Throughout his career, he has cultivated a reputation for being knowledgeable, hardworking, and adept at thinking outside the box to find innovative solutions. His commitment to excellence extends beyond legal expertise, encompassing a strategic and results-oriented approach that has earned the respect of peers and judges alike. Mr. Saadat prides himself on being aggressive and responsive, yielding cost effective results.
Education
Mr. Saadat earned his Bachelor's Degree in Political Science with honors from the University of California, Davis in 2014, where he distinguished himself as a Dean's List Recipient and Student-Athlete. Following a year in the tech sales industry, he pursued his Juris Doctorate at Western State College of Law, graduating Cum Laude in 2018. During his time in law school, Mr. Saadat achieved multiple Witkin Awards, a testament to his academic excellence. Shortly after graduation, he successfully passed the California State Bar on his first attempt.
About Me
I am a first generation Afghan-American. My journey from refugee to legal professional has been marked by resilience and hard work. As a former collegiate soccer player with semi-professional experience, I find joy in biking and playing soccer, anything that gets me outdoors. I am a proud husband and father to a delightful 6-month-old. Family moments are my priority, and I cherish the adventure that life, both personally and professionally, continues to unfold.
Beau Mizoguchi
Associate
Mr. Mizoguchi has practiced Workers’ Compensation defense litigation since becoming a licensed attorney in 2021. He has vigorously and enthusiastically represented insurance carriers, third party administrators, and permissibly self-insured employers in the defense of workers’ compensation claims, handling numerous trials, petitions for reconsideration, contribution and arbitration. He strongly believes that having a great relationship and effective communication with his clients are key to achieving success in handling and litigating cases toward expeditious and beneficial resolutions. His devotion and passion for the practice of workers’ compensation defense has been a testament to his success as a litigator.
Education
Mr. Mizoguchi earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration at the University of Southern California in 2016. He earned his Juris Doctor from Loyola Law School in 2020 and was admitted to the California State Bar in January 2021.
About Me
I was born and raised in Orange County and lived in Los Angeles from 2012 until 2023. I enjoy traveling to new countries and being introduced to different cultures and cuisines. I enjoy playing golf and exercising on my Peloton. My favorite team to root for is USC Football, but I also am a fan of the Rams and Lakers.
Martin Herrera, Esq.
Senior Associate
Prior to becoming an Attorney, Mr. Herrera worked as a Police Cadet, Police Services Officer, and as a K-12 Teacher with the Santa Ana Unified School District. Mr. Herrera has practiced Workers’ Compensation defense since 2006. Mr. Herrera has worked with multinational corporations, municipalities, school districts, and small family-owned businesses. Mr. Herrera is fluent in Spanish and this helps immensely with pro per Applicants. Mr. Herrera’s excellent rapport with Applicant Attorneys and Co-Defendants facilitates the expeditious resolution of his cases.
Education
Mr. Herrera graduated from Cal State University, Fullerton, with a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies. He then obtained a Juris Doctorate from Whittier Law School, where he graduated magna cum laude and was admitted to the State Bar of California in 2006.
About Me
My birthplace is Veracruz, Mexico, and I grew up in Orange County, California. My Wife, Brenda, and I, enjoy taking our two sons to summer concerts at the Hollywood Bowl, hiking at Irvine Regional Park, and visiting The Getty Villa.
William Bartels
Senior Associate
William “Bill” Bartels has been practicing law since his admission to the State Bar in 2004. Initially, he managed his own boutique law firm, handling many disparate legal issues, and practicing in family law, criminal law, copyright infringement, and other property issues. He conducted multiple jury trials in Orange and Los Angeles Counties and made hundreds of appearances in civil court and criminal courts. Since 2010, Mr. Bartels has exclusively practiced workers compensation defense and has litigated cases in every Board in California. He continues to enjoy the challenge of trial, but understands the business benefit of a quick resolution. He has managed all types of cases, including death claims, 132a and serious and willful cases, and has focused on the complex statutory scheme for med/legal billing and liens. Mr. Bartels has also lectured at multiple employment related conventions and has presented trainings to claims offices and employers across the country.
Education
Mr. Bartels earned his B.S. in Psychology from California University at Fullerton in 1998. Subsequently, he attended law school at Western State University, College of Law, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2003. He was also an editor on the Law Review and published an article regarding a statutory change to the California Evidence Code.
About Me
I am the very lucky father of three beautiful and kind daughters, and an even luckier husband to my wife, Sahar, who is also a workers comp defense attorney. I probably spend too much time cheering for the L.A. Kings, and I definitely spend too much money trying to improve my golf game. My family and I make several pilgrimages to the Colorado River each year for water craft fun, and I’m up for almost any type of travel. I take pride in my work and find happiness and fulfillment in music and in spending time with family and friends.
Matthew Seeley
Senior Associate
Mr. Seeley has exclusively practiced Workers’ Compensation defense in California for nearly a decade. He has successfully passed the California Specialization Examination for Workers’ Compensation and he prides himself in taking on the issues his clients have as if they were his own. He will respond to communications promptly and aim for a 24-minute response time, not 24 hours.
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He comes from a prominent statewide Workers’ Compensation firm and has extensive experience in all aspects of Workers’ Compensation claims including presumptions, post-termination, good faith personnel action, AOE/COE, life pension, joinder, contribution/reimbursement, death claims, 132a, S&W, COVID-19 claims, and everything in-between.
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His clients range from public entities to private businesses, insurance carriers, permissibly self-insured, and legally uninsured.
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Prior to Workers’ Compensation defense, he gained years of experience in civil law and understands the complexities inherent with preparing for and appearing at a full trial. This has enabled Mr. Seeley to confidently take cases in Workers’ Compensation to trial on all issues.
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He also understands that not all issues and cases need a trial and that early resolution is often the best goal. He works aggressively to secure settlements at all stages of litigation.
Education
Mr. Seeley graduated Cum laude from Southern Oregon University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Criminology. He then attended and graduated from Hamline University School of Law in Saint Paul, Minnesota and successfully passed the California Bar Exam.
About Me
I come from a diverse and well-traveled background. I am Canadian American and grew up on the island of Guam. I have lived in several US states and am well adjusted to changing circumstances and scenery which has helped me in my legal practice as being able to think and act on your toes is critical for positive outcomes.
“Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for” - Epicurus
Jason Chlowitz, Esq.
Partner
Mr. Chlowitz is a partner in our Los Angeles office and focuses his practice on workers’ compensation defense. He has a wide variety of clients including large self-insured employers, third-party administrators, and insurance carriers. Among his diverse client list, Mr. Chlowitz has represented Fortune 500 companies, major professional sports teams and multiple PEO's. Mr. Chlowitz handles all aspects of the workers’ compensation litigation process, including drafting and preparing motions, depositions, and trials. He handles all aspects of cases from start to finish including case in chief, 132a, Serious and Willful and liens. Mr. Chlowitz has obtained multiple take nothings at trial throughout his career. He works closely with clients and risk managers to update business strategies and restructure operations to ensure compliance and minimize the risk of workplace injuries.
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Prior to passing the Bar Exam in 2010, Mr. Chlowitz worked as a hearing representative at a large applicant firm, allowing him to have the unique perspective of seeing all cases from both the applicant and defense side of litigation. Using this to his advantage, he has developed a reputation throughout the industry of obtaining early resolution on many claims, allowing carriers to save a tremendous amount of time and money.
Education
Mr Chlowitz is a graduate of the University of Arizona in 2001 with a degree in Communications. After working in the business management world for several years he returned to school and obtained his Juris Doctorate in 2009 from the University of West Los Angeles School of Law. After passing the Bar in 2010, he has practiced exclusively in the field of workers’ compensation.
About Me
I was born and raised in Los Angeles and lived here throughout my entire life, with the exception of 4 years for school in Arizona. I am an avid sports fan and my passion for the Los Angeles Kings and Arizona Wildcats is known to all who know me. When i am not rooting on my favorite teams I can be found out on the ice where I play hockey on a weekly basis.
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I am married to Samantha and we have two beautiful daughters. My wife and kids are my pride and joy and I coach both of my daughters in both softball and soccer.
As Wayne Gretzky once said "you miss 100% of the shots you do not take" so do not be afraid to take your shot.
Richard J. Koven, Esq.
Senior Associate
Mr. Koven has been practicing workers’ compensation defense exclusively for over two decades. His comprehensive practice encompasses all aspects of workers' compensation litigation, from complex depositions and trials to high-stakes appeals. His strategic approach has resulted in successful case outcomes that have been published in the California Compensation Cases, Hanna, O’Brien, and the CWCR.
Through his detailed analytical approach and client-focused representation, Mr. Koven partners closely with clients to develop effective resolution strategies while ensuring clear communication throughout the legal process.
Education
Mr. Koven obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from UCLA in 1999. He then received his Juris Doctorate from Pepperdine University School of Law, graduating Cum Laude, and was admitted to the California State Bar in 2002. Mr. Koven has been a certified workers' compensation legal specialist since 2013.
About Me
I was born in Downey and live in Palos Verdes. I enjoy spending time with my wife, Reyna, and our son. We enjoy trying new restaurants and traveling. One of my best memories is swimming in a cenote near Chichén Itzá. Our family participates in the Skechers Friendship Walk each year. We also enjoy attending concerts with varied music ranging from classic rock to Latin music. As a member of the LA Lawyers Philharmonic and Legal Voices chorus, I have had the pleasure of participating in performances featuring composer Richard Sherman and Dick Van Dyke.
Dean Sperling, Esq.
Of Counsel
With experience spanning in excess of 40 years, Dean P. Sperling has provided superior legal services to employer and carriers pursuing civil subrogation, members of the surety and insurance industries, and large corporations throughout California in both state and federal courts. He specializes in the representation of employers and carriers in civil subrogation claims arising under the Jones Act. His experience extends to representation in the areas of subrogation and commercial collections, complex business and contract litigation and commercial landlord tenant disputes and litigation.
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Mr. Sperling has tried, arbitrated and mediated over a thousand cases on behalf of his clients, while maintaining the respect of his peers and earning an AV rating with a listing in Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers published by Martindale Hubbard.
Education
Mr. Sperling received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1975 from Claremont McKenna College, graduating Cum Laude with departmental honors in history. In 1978, he received his Juris Doctorate degree from Loyola University School of Law in Los Angeles and, in 1978, was admitted to the State Bar of California. He is also admitted to the Supreme Court of the United States, all Federal District Courts in California, and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
About Me
I grew up in Southern California, attended school here and have worked/resided in Orange County for over 30 years. I was introduced to the Big Island of Hawaii in my early teens by my parents and was privileged to be accepted by friends there as “Kama’aina” (local rather than mainland). We continue to enjoy the Big Island after more than 50 years, splitting time between the Kona Coast and Orange County with family, and are looking to pass the Aloha on with twin granddaughters. Keeping active by way of daily exercise is a must along with collecting antique clocks and supporting local businesses and events.
* Certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization Workers’ Compensation Law