Shareholder Laura Devane Rejoins Littler’s Arbitration Practice

(April 29, 2025) – Littler, the world’s largest employment and labor law practice representing management, has expanded its Arbitration Practice Group with the return of Laura E. Devane as a shareholder in California. Devane, who was previously a shareholder with Littler, rejoins the firm from Whitney, Thompson & Jeffcoach LLP and brings extensive experience in employment arbitration. Her arrival marks the tenth shareholder to join Littler this year. 

“Laura’s return builds on an exciting period of growth for the firm and it is always gratifying to welcome back a member of the Littler family,” said Erin Webber, Littler’s managing director and president. “Her background and depth of experience will further bolster our capabilities as we continue to partner with clients to effectively utilize arbitration agreements to avoid costly litigation.”

Devane focuses a significant part of her practice on working with clients to develop, implement and enforce their employment arbitration agreements. She regularly appears in California federal and state courts and counsels clients on matters through motion practice, at trial and on appeal.

“Laura has a successful track record partnering with our clients to design, implement and enforce effective employment arbitration agreements. We are excited to welcome her back to the leadership team of our group,” said Rob Friedman, co-chair of Littler’s Arbitration Practice Group. “As employment arbitration practices and strategies continue to evolve, Laura’s return will provide clients with the experience needed to navigate the complexities of the process with confidence and clarity.”

Devane also advises on a broad range of employment-related issues and defends employers in cases before state and federal regulators, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Department of Fair Employment and Housing, the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement, and the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board. Outside of her practice, Devane has provided pro bono representation in death penalty cases and served as a housing court volunteer to low-income individuals.

“Littler truly has unrivaled resources and a depth of experience that consistently provides best in the business service for clients,” said Devane. “I’m excited for the opportunity to return to the firm and to work alongside the best labor and employment attorneys in the industry while I continue to further develop and expand my practice both in California and nationwide.”

Devane received her J.D., magna cum laude, from the University of Minnesota Law School and her B.A. from the University of Minnesota. After completing law school, she served as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Paul B. Higginbotham of the Wisconsin Court of Appeals.

About Littler 

With more than 1,800 labor and employment attorneys in offices around the world, Littler provides workplace solutions that are local, everywhere. Our diverse global team and proprietary technology foster a culture that celebrates original thinking, delivering groundbreaking innovation that prepares employers for what’s happening today, and what’s likely to happen tomorrow.