Marisa serves as appellate counsel to assist trial attorneys in shaping legal arguments and preserving issues for appeal.andards of review, and carefully crafted written advocacy.
Drawing on decades of trial and appellate experience, she brings a rare dual perspective to each matter—advising on strategic decisions in the trial court to build a record capable of withstanding appellate scrutiny.
Her appellate work rests on disciplined analysis of the record, rigorous application of governing standards of review, and carefully crafted written advocacy.
Drawing on decades of litigation and appellate experience, Marisa represents employers in employment litigation and advises on compliance and internal investigations.
She works with organizations to implement proactive risk-mitigation strategies and conducts workplace policy and management best-practices training. She also provides the required California-compliant interactive sexual harassment prevention training.
In every engagement, she brings disciplined analysis, strategic judgment, and exceptional writing to matters that carry lasting consequences. The same disciplined perspective that shapes her appellate advocacy also informs her leadership beyond the courtroom.
Leadership & Service
Marisa contributes to both the legal community and her local community, reflecting her belief that the strength of the courts and community depends on engagement and meaningful contribution.
Prior to college, Marisa worked for nearly a decade as a licensed investment advisor and fixed income securities trader. That experience informs her analytical approach to complex matters. She initiated and presided over the inaugural San Diego Bench and Bar Summit, convening state, federal, and appellate judges and bar leaders to address issues affecting the courts during sequestration. She actively engaged in a national public education initiative promoting fair and free courts. She also provides pro bono legal services to local charitable organizations and serves on boards supporting academia and California’s appellate courts.
Marisa’s commitment to justice began well before law school, when she served as a guardian ad litem for abused children in California and North Carolina. She remains active in the community, mentoring students interested in the law and judging student mock trial and moot court competitions. Outside the courtroom, she supports local arts and education initiatives, including sewing prom dresses for foster youth and costumes for local theatre productions — reflecting the same disciplined commitment to service she brings to the law.