Michael Wertheim helps employers navigate complex workplace disputes with a practical, business-minded approach. He represents employers in every aspect of employment law, including wage and hour class actions, PAGA matters, discrimination and harassment claims, wrongful termination disputes, and traditional labor law.
Michael’s practice centers on defending class, collective or representative actions involving allegations of misclassification, overtime violations, meal and rest break compliance, off-the-clock work, wage statement issues, reimbursement claims, and all manner of California Labor Code compliance. As a class action litigator, Michael understands high-value transactions. The scale of these cases typically involves thousands of individuals, where potential exposure can eclipse seven or eight figures.
In addition to class litigation, Michael defends whistleblower, discrimination, harassment, retaliation and wrongful termination cases, and serves as a day-to-day advisor to employers navigating California’s evolving employment laws. He works closely with management teams and in-house counsel on workplace policies, employee discipline, investigations, accommodations, reductions in force, separation issues, and preventative compliance strategies designed to reduce litigation exposure before disputes arise.
Michael is known for combining sophisticated litigation strategy with a calm, pragmatic style that clients trust when the stakes are high. He approaches disputes with an understanding that most employers are not looking for unnecessary conflict, they are looking for clear advice, efficient strategies, and counsel who understands the operational and human realities behind life-at-work. His clients, which range from startups to multinational employers operating in highly regulated industries, turn to him not only to defend claims, but to help evaluate risk, preserve business relationships where possible, and make intelligent long-term decisions.
Outside the office, you will find Michael traveling, cooking, or behind an instrument in his music studio.
