Derek Sachs

Overview

Derek Sachs exclusively represents both public and private employers in all aspects of employment litigation. He routinely handles employer/employee disputes in state and federal courts and before the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement, California Civil Rights Department, Department of Industrial Relations, and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Derek's comprehensive knowledge of employment law precedents and regulatory changes enables him to anticipate opposing counsel's arguments and develop compelling counter-strategies.

Derek brings longevity of practice and proven success to representing clients across various industries, including healthcare, property management, manufacturing, recreation, construction, restaurants, and insurance. He is particularly skilled in resolving difficult and large-scale wage and hour class actions with the highest level of competency. Derek is most valued by clients and colleagues alike for his ability to statistically analyze the liability and damages inherent in these complex matters.

Derek also routinely provides preventive counseling to employers through training sessions. Additionally, he drafts and audits employment handbooks and policies, conducts wage and hour audits, analyzes exemption classification reviews, and evaluates and advises on termination decisions. His proactive approach to compliance counseling helps clients build robust internal systems that significantly reduce litigation risk. Derek excels at translating complex legal requirements into practical workplace policies that managers can consistently implement. Clients appreciate that his guidance has helped them foster more positive workplace cultures while avoiding costly employment claims.

Experience

• In a defamation case, successfully prevailed on an Anti-SLAPP motion involving a property management employee who provided a written statement to the police regarding a tenant dispute; the awarding of the Anti-SLAPP motion disposed of the case, and the client was awarded over $30,000 in attorneys’ fees
• Prevailed on a Motion for Summary Judgment in a highly contentious age and race discrimination case where the plaintiff demanded a multiple seven-figure settlement at mediation

Professional

• Member, California State Bar Association, 2007 to Present