Overview

As a seasoned litigator, Guillermo brings extensive experience to the table, particularly in defending claims of wrongful termination, discrimination, and harassment across various protected categories, retaliation, failure to accommodate, defamation, breach of contract, and misappropriation of trade secrets. His experience is particularly evident in his handling of wage-and-hour claims, including failure to pay overtime wages, off-the-clock work, meal and rest period violations, and misclassification issues. Guillermo's litigation practice spans defending employers in single and multi-plaintiff lawsuits, class actions, and claims under the Private Attorney General Act (PAGA), showcasing his ability to navigate complex legal terrain.

Guillermo also focuses on training and counseling in workplace-related legal matters. He regularly advises employers on the best practices to avoid employment-law claims, providing practical guidance and counsel and conducting training on harassment prevention, anti-bullying, and practical management tools.

Guillermo is dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation in California state court, federal court, arbitrations, administrative hearings (EEOC, California Civil Rights Department, DLSE, and EDD), and mediation. Beyond his legal work, Guillermo is passionate about community service and regularly volunteers at local community organizations and elementary schools to discuss the importance of higher education and the legal system, reflecting his commitment to making a positive impact both inside and outside the courtroom.

Honors & Recognitions

  • San Diego Business Journal, "Leaders of Influence in Law" (2024)
  • San Diego Super Lawyers®, "Super Lawyers" (2014-present)
  • San Diego Metro Magazine, “2020 Men of Influence” Recipient
  • Latino Leaders Magazine, "Top Latino Lawyers in 2019"
  • San Diego Business Journal, "Leaders in the Law Finalist, Employment Law" (2019-2020)
  • San Diego La Raza Lawyers, "Attorney of the Year" (2019)
  • Southern California, "Top Lawyers" (2014–2023)

Professional & Civic Associations

  • San Diego La Raza Lawyers Association
    • Endorsements Committee Chair
    • Mentorship Program Co-chair (2010-present)
    • Vice President (2018)
    • Board Member (2016-2018)
  • Chicano Federation of San Diego County
    • Board Member (2018 - present)
    • Vice Chair
  • Hispanic National Bar Association, Employment Law Section Co-Chair (2016-2017)
  • Casa Cornelia, Pro Bono Attorney, Asylum Case
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego, Pro Bono Attorney
  • Gompers Preparatory Academy, Speaker
  • King Chavez Primary Academy, Speaker

About Me

Guillermo and his wife, Marina, have two spoiled kiddos, and one spoiled dog (Romeo). Guillermo’s hobbies include movies (favorites are “Cinema Paradiso,” “Talented Mr. Ripley” and “Nacho Libre”), triathlons, designing men’s suits and stuffing his face with San Diego’s diverse cuisine.

  • "Build something you love with people you love."
  • Robert Lewis

Practice Emphasis

  • Defense of Employment Litigation, Including Class Claims
  • Wage and Hour Counseling
  • Employment Policy Formulation and Advice
  • Management Training
  • Sexual Harassment Investigations and Defense

Education

University of San Francisco, School of Law

  • J.D., 1999

University of California, San Diego

  • B.A., Sociology, 1996

Bar & Court Admissions

  • California, 2000
  • U.S. District Court for the Central District of California
  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California
  • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California
  • U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California

Languages

  • Spanish (fluent)
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