Jerry Pearson is a Partner at Young Wooldridge, LLP where he manages the firm’s business department. He was born in Torrance, Calif., but grew up in Fresno where he attended college. He received his bachelor’s degree in history from California State University, Fresno and his Juris Doctorate from San Joaquin College of Law, also in Fresno.

Jerry’s practice is limited solely to representing management in labor and employment law issues and making sure his clients stay in compliance with the State and Federal labor laws. He has successfully defended employers in wage and hour matters, as well as cases alleging harassment, discrimination, wrongful termination and other labor-related issues before the California State Superior Court, the California Court of Appeals, the United States District Court, the California Labor Commissioner and the Department of Fair Employment and Housing.

In his representation of employers, Jerry has also drafted and helped implement “Return to Work/Interactive Process” programs, which help employers determine if reasonable accommodations exist for an employee’s return to work from injury or disability leave. He also regularly authors employee handbooks for employers, both large and small. Jerry prides himself on getting to know his clients and their businesses before he represents them, so that he can provide optimal legal counsel that is tailored to the specific client and need.

Jerry’s clients include approximately 30 special districts throughout California, as well many private employers, including Jess Smith & Sons Cotton, one of the world’s largest cotton producers; Ensign United States Drilling, Inc., one of the world’s largest oil drilling entities; Seven Oaks Country Club; and the full-service construction firm of the S.C. Anderson Family of Companies.

Prior to joining Young Wooldridge, Jerry was a deputy district attorney with the Kern County District Attorney’s Office where he prosecuted juvenile gang crimes. During his career, he has litigated over 200 cases to verdict.
Jerry holds a B.A. in History from California State University, Fresno and a J.D. from San Joaquin College of Law, Fresno.

His Business and Professional Associations include:

• Board of Directors – Stockdale Christian School, 2006-2010
• Board of Directors – Kern County Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM), 2008-2011; President-Elect 2012; President 2013; Past President – 2014-2015.

Honors, Awards & Achievements:

• Honored as Best Business – Employment Law Attorney by the Kern County Bar Association, July 2008

“Taking the Stigma Out of the Interactive Process”

Attendees will learn the importance of using an interactive process for dialoguing with employees, what triggers the interactive process, examples of areas where the interactive process will assist in accommodating employees, and what constitutes reasonable accommodation. Jerry and Denise will also discuss undue hardship factors and how the courts view this concept for employers, along with tips for conducting an effective meeting with an employee. Examples will be provided, as well as a take-away form for use in setting up interactive dialogue meetings.