Photo of Joanna Rivers

Joanna focuses on labor and employment law.

Inspired by summers spent with her mother, a sheriff, at the Los Angeles courthouse, Joanna developed a deep passion for law. Joanna’s interest in law was further fueled by her involvement in speech and debate, mock trial, and a semester at the public defender’s office during her undergraduate studies. During law school, she participated in a mediation clinic, where she honed her skills in active listening, empathy, and communication. She also served as a summer associate at Husch Blackwell, conducting research on employment matters, reviewing contracts, and observing mediations.

Joanna’s passion for labor and employment law is driven by a keen interest in trade secrets and non-compete agreements. She also defends clients in employment-related litigation. A judicial externship with the Arizona Court of Appeals provided her with valuable insights into the appellate and litigation processes, shaping her understanding of effective advocacy and the importance of clear, compelling legal reasoning.

Clients can expect Joanna to be efficient, reliable, and genuinely invested in their success. Known for her humility and dedication to continual learning, she stays informed about the latest legal developments and best practices. Joanna’s perspective as a first-generation attorney and an African American woman also enriches her practice, allowing her to approach each case with empathy and insight.

On January 20, 2025, President Donald J. Trump named Commissioner Andrea R. Lucas as Acting Chair of the EEOC. Since joining the commission in 2020, Lucas has been a strong advocate for addressing the evolving landscape of employment and civil rights issues. As these changes continue to shape the workplace, it’s crucial for both

On January 15, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a rare unanimous decision in EMD Sales Inc. v. Carrera, addressing the standard of proof employers must meet to establish that an employee is exempt from the minimum wage and overtime requirements under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The Court held employers need only prove employees meet an FLSA exemption by a preponderance of the evidence (more likely true than not), rejecting the Fourth Circuit’s use of the higher “clear-and-convincing-evidence” standard. This ruling carries significant implications for employers in the context of employee classification and defending against unpaid overtime claims.

High winds and drought conditions have fueled severe wildfires, devastating communities around Los Angeles, California. The fires have destroyed thousands of homes and businesses, while firefighters are working tirelessly to gain control. On January 8, 2025, President Biden approved a “Major Disaster Declaration” for California.