Intro
Mikaela is an experienced employee benefits attorney who focuses on client matters concerning ERISA and the Internal Revenue Code, as well as IRS and Department of Labor regulations. She translates these complex policies and codes into straightforward best practices for her clients.
In addition, she advises for-profit and nonprofit clients on matters related to health care plans, retirement plans, and tax compliance issues. She provides guidance to clients on administrative and fiduciary issues, withdrawal liability issues, and nonqualified deferred compensation matters. Mikaela also has experience in a variety of employee benefits litigation matters, health and welfare matters, advising on fiduciary responsibilities, as well as benefits related components of merger & acquisition transactions.
Areas of Focus
Education
Academic Distinction
U.C. Hastings Business Law Journal, Staff Member
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
Admissions and Courts
California Lawyers Association, Wiley W. Manuel Pro Bono Legal Services Award (2022)
"Form W-2 Reporting Requirement for COVID-Related Paid Leave Could Apply to Governmental Employers This Year," Employee Benefits Law Alert (January 2022)
Hanson Bridgett 2024 Annual Employee Benefits Update (February 2024)
"Current IRS Audits Focused on Special District Issues," co-speaker, CSDA Annual Conference (August 2023)