Managing Partner
Kari J. Brown
With a strong litigation background, Kari Brown represents employers in nearly all areas of employment law and litigation, helping them navigate complex and often overwhelming situations. She brings strong analytical skills to her work, with a focus on resolution and practical outcomes. Kari describes her approach as “breaking things down into smaller digestible steps so clients can move forward with their business and with life,” even when challenges feel daunting. She is known for making difficult issues approachable and actionable. Kari has two young children and spends much of her free time with her family, often at sporting events, enjoying time together and staying active.
My primary goal is to ensure that our clients are in a position to make smart and informed decisions on issues that impact their businesses, employees, and life decisions.
Practice Areas
Employment
- Employment Law & Employer Counseling
- Workplace Investigations
- Wage and Hour Compliance
- Employee Leave Laws (CFRA, FMLA, ADA)
- Severance & Termination Guidance
- Employment Agreements & Policies
- Workplace Violence Restraining Orders
- Background Check & Immigration Compliance
- Exempt vs. Non-Exempt Classification
Education & Credentials
Education
- J.D., University of California, Hastings College of the Law (2006)
Admitted to Practice
- California, 2006
Background
Kari J. Brown is a trusted advisor and litigator who brings a practical, problem-solving approach to employment law. She provides counsel to employers on a wide range of workplace matters, including wage and hour compliance, employee leave laws, immigration issues, exempt status classifications, background check regulations, and employment agreements. She is particularly adept at guiding employers through sensitive issues such as workplace investigations, violence restraining orders, severance negotiations, and terminations.
In addition to her advisory practice, Kari regularly defends clients in employment litigation, handling cases in California Superior Court as well as before various administrative agencies. She also draws on a broad civil litigation background—including experience with business, contract matters, and personal injury cases—giving her clients well-rounded and strategic legal guidance.
Prior to joining Spaulding McCullough & Tansil LLP, Kari worked extensively in civil litigation and served as a criminal prosecutor. Her work has included complex matters in commercial loss, property disputes, construction defect, and environmental law. Her courtroom experience, coupled with her diverse legal training, allows her to effectively advocate in both litigation and advisory roles.
Professional Affiliations
- Board of Directors, YWCA of Sonoma County
- Member, Sonoma County Bar Association
- Member, Sonoma County Women in Law
Additional Credits
- Honoree, North Bay Business Journal "Forty Under 40" (2018)
- Named Best Employment & Labor Law Attorney by North Bay Bohemian (Twice)
Work with Kari J. Brown
Tell us about your matter and we'll help you find the right path forward.
