James Hart

James Hart represents and counsels public and private sector employers in a wide range of employment and labor matters, with experience in all facets of the litigation process, from initial investigation and filing through trial and appeal. He practices in federal and state courts in California, both at the trial and appellate level, and before the Department of Fair Employment and Housing, the Department of Labor, the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement and the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board. He has specific experience with:

• Wage and hour laws and regulations, including those that cover classification, overtime, off-the-clock, and meal and rest policies
• The Americans with Disabilities Act and corresponding state disability laws
• Privacy laws
• Appellate procedure

Additionally, James has assisted with internal human resources investigations of employees, audits of company policies, and other ongoing employee matters, such as workplace violence restraining orders. He also provides his clients with compliance counseling.

James regularly represents clients in the following industries:

• Hospitality such as hotels and restaurants
• Medical including hospitals, paramedics, doctors, and pharmacies
• Technology companies
• Retail establishments including supermarkets and clothing chains
• Transportation including trucking companies and travel associations

James conducts training on harassment, termination procedures, wage and hour and other issues. He regularly presents for the Continuing Education of the Bar. A founding member of Littler's Orange County office, he is active in the international employment law activities of the firm.

Prior to joining Littler, James practiced criminal law as a deputy attorney general in the California Attorney General's Office. While there, he prosecuted felonies and misdemeanors and defended criminal convictions on appeal and in habeas corpus proceedings. He also participated in an exchange program with the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office, worked in the business affairs department at an entertainment company and worked in the music industry. James was an extern to the Hon. Consuelo B. Marshall of the U. S. District Court for the Central District of California.