V. James DeSimone

V. James DeSimone is a highly respected employment attorney with decades of experience advocating for workers’ rights. Admitted to the California Bar in 1985, he focuses on representing employees in cases involving workplace discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wrongful termination, and wage-and-hour violations. His commitment to ethical, vigorous representation has earned him a reputation as a powerful voice for justice in California employment law.

Mr. DeSimone earned his undergraduate degree from Johns Hopkins University in 1981 and his J.D. from the University of California at Los Angeles School of Law in 1985. Early in his career, he served as a staff attorney at Westside Legal Services, providing trial representation for lower-income clients. In 1990, he co-founded Schonbrun & DeSimone, a civil rights and employment law firm that gained national recognition. After 25 years as a partner, he established V. James DeSimone Law, continuing his focus on protecting employees from unlawful workplace practices.

Mr. DeSimone’s record of success includes multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements in employment retaliation, discrimination, and wrongful termination cases. Notable victories include a $7.39 million jury award in an employment retaliation case and significant recoveries in class actions for wage-and-hour violations, achieving settlements of $17 million, $16 million, $12.5 million, $10.5 million, and $5 million for workers in various industries.

In addition to trial work, V. James (“Jim”) DeSimone has argued precedent-setting appellate cases that have advanced workplace protections under California law. His leadership in complex litigation, both at trial and on appeal, has helped shape legal standards in employment discrimination, harassment, and wage law. With a career defined by dedication to employee rights, Mr. DeSimone combines strategic litigation skills with a deep understanding of workplace law. He continues to fight for fair treatment, equal opportunity, and justice for workers across California.

Law Office Affiliations

• Owner, V. James DeSimone Law
• Member, Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles
• Member, California Employment Lawyers Association
• Member, National Employment Lawyers Association
• Member, Santa Monica Bar Association
• Member, The State Bar of California
• Honorary Board Member, Trial Lawyers Charities

Licensed State

• California

Education

• University of California at Los Angeles School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• The Johns Hopkins University
  BA in Political Science
• Manalapan High School

Awards & Badges