A trusted advisor and seasoned litigator, Chris Nepacena is a Partner in the Labor & Employment Practice Group where he focuses on management-side employment litigation and strategic counsel. Chris represents employers across various industries in high-stakes disputes and provides proactive guidance to minimize risk, ensure compliance, and protect company culture.
Known for his pragmatic, business-oriented approach, he takes pride in his ability to help clients find logical and efficient solutions to a wide spectrum of legal issues. Chris has represented clients in all aspects of employment litigation involving allegations of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wrongful termination, wage and hour/Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) violations, and unfair business practices. Throughout his career, Chris has obtained favorable results for his clients through mediation, negotiated settlement agreements, and has successfully argued dispositive motions at the pleading and summary judgment phases.
Beyond the courtroom, Chris regularly partners with clients to provide tailored, day-to-day advice on a broad range of employment-related topics including, but not limited to:
- Compliance with evolving state and federal employment laws;
- Recruiting;
- Hiring;
- Background checks;
- Data privacy;
- Compensation;
- Leave and accommodation issues;
- Terminations and reductions in force;
- Severance agreements;
- Crisis management and internal policy audits; and
- DEI strategy and training.
Whether it’s mitigating risk, ensuring business continuity, or navigating complex legal challenges, Chris works closely with his clients to provide practical, forward-thinking solutions that protect their organizations and position them for long-term success. Chris gives his clients the clarity and confidence they need to lead, adapt, and thrive, no matter what workplace challenge comes next.