Erickson, Thorpe & Swainston, Ltd.
Working With Employers
Erickson, Thorpe & Swainston, Ltd.
Working With Employers
Erickson, Thorpe & Swainston was founded in 1969. Since that time, the Firm has efficiently and successfully represented its clients in state and federal courts in Nevada and Northern California. As experienced trial and appellate attorneys, we vigorously advocate our clients' interests while remaining committed to the principles of the highest legal ethics.
Erickson, Thorpe & Swainston offers committed support in all phases of commercial and civil litigation, including labor and employment law and associated preventative employment services. We provide the experience necessary to meet our clients' expectations for an effective, efficient and timely resolution of their conflicts and issues. Our continued success in this highly competitive market demonstrates our widely recognized ability to deliver satisfaction and positive outcome to those who give us their trust - our clients.
Areas of Law:
-General Civil and Trial Practice in all State and Federal Courts.
-Products Liability
-Professional Liability
-Medical-Dental
-Legal
-Architect-Engineer and Real Estate Broker-Agent Malpractice
-Insurance Defense.
-Personal Injury
-Civil Rights
-Aviation
-Commercial Litigation
-Labor and Employment Law
Main Office
99 West Arroyo Street
Reno, NV 89509
775-786-3930
775-786-4160
Working With Employers
Erickson, Thorpe & Swainston, Ltd., offers comprehensive employment law services and representation to Nevada's employers, employees and public entities. The preventative employment services our employment law division can provide include developing or reviewing your company handbooks and policies, including policies related to sexual harassment prevention, ADA/FMLA accommodations, workplace violence, drug testing and all other means of preventing claims and complying with state and federal law. We conduct sexual harassment training all over Nevada and eastern California. Erickson, Thorpe & Swainston can conduct, or assist in, the investigation and resolution of harassment or discrimination complaints.
The law firm has responded to and defended hundreds of administrative complaints and union grievances. We have over 35 years of representing Nevada's employers if a lawsuit is filed. We pride ourselves on our attention to your case and our accessibility to the client. We can provide the vigorous legal representation you need to put you in the best possible position to minimize or avoid liability.
Attorney in Reno, NV
Order of the Coif. Member, Traynor Honor Society. Recipient, American Jurisprudence Award in Constitutional Law. Listed, Best Lawyers in America, 2007. Judge Pro Tempore, Nevada "Short Trial" Program.
Areas of Law:
-Personal Injury
-Labor and Employment
-Employment Discrimination
-Civil Rights Litigation
-Sexual Harassment
-Construction Litigation
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 1986, Nevada
-1987, California
-U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-U.S. District Court, Northern, Eastern, Central and Southern Districts of California
-U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit and U.S. Supreme Court
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
Class of 1986
J.D.
with distinction
University Attended:
University of Nevada, Reno
Class of 1982
B.A.
Birth Information:
Born in 1960
Tonopah, Nevada, September 7, 1960
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada (Member: Disciplinary Panel; Fee Dispute Committee); State Bar of California; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Defense Research Institute, Inc.; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), 2005; Best Lawyers in America in Personal Injury Litigation 2007; Nevada Super Lawyer 2008; Masters, American Inns of Court.
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
Juris Doctorate, with distinction, 1986
Attorney in Reno, NV
Order of the Coif. Member, Traynor Honor Society. Recipient, American Jurisprudence Award in Constitutional Law. Listed, Best Lawyers in America, 2007. Judge Pro Tempore, Nevada "Short Trial" Program.
Areas of Law:
-Personal Injury
-Labor and Employment
-Employment Discrimination
-Civil Rights Litigation
-Sexual Harassment
-Construction Litigation
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 1986, Nevada
-1987, California
-U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-U.S. District Court, Northern, Eastern, Central and Southern Districts of California
-U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit and U.S. Supreme Court
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
Class of 1986
J.D.
with distinction
University Attended:
University of Nevada, Reno
Class of 1982
B.A.
Birth Information:
Born in 1960
Tonopah, Nevada, September 7, 1960
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada (Member: Disciplinary Panel; Fee Dispute Committee); State Bar of California; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Defense Research Institute, Inc.; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), 2005; Best Lawyers in America in Personal Injury Litigation 2007; Nevada Super Lawyer 2008; Masters, American Inns of Court.
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific Juris Doctorate, with distinction, 1986
Attorney in Reno, NV
Deputy District Attorney, Washoe County District Attorney's Office, 1981-1987. Chief Deputy District Attorney, Washoe County, 1987-1989.
Areas of Law:
-Civil Litigation
-Labor and Employment
-Personal Injury
-Real Estate Brokers Malpractice
-Insurance Defense
-Professional Liability
-Medical Malpractice
-Americans with Disabilities Act
-Premises Liability
-Civil Rights Litigation
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 1981, Nevada
-1982, California
-U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California
-U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
Law School Attended:
University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law
Class of 1981
J.D.
University Attended:
University of Nevada Reno
Class of 1978
B.A.
Birth Information:
Born in 1956
San Francisco, California, March 23, 1956
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada; State Bar of California; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada (President, 1998); Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada (Board of Directors 2006); Defense Research Institute.
University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law
Juris Doctorate, 1981
Attorney in Reno, NV
Deputy District Attorney, Washoe County District Attorney's Office, 1981-1987. Chief Deputy District Attorney, Washoe County, 1987-1989.
Areas of Law:
-Civil Litigation
-Labor and Employment
-Personal Injury
-Real Estate Brokers Malpractice
-Insurance Defense
-Professional Liability
-Medical Malpractice
-Americans with Disabilities Act
-Premises Liability
-Civil Rights Litigation
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 1981, Nevada
-1982, California
-U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California
-U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
Law School Attended:
University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law
Class of 1981
J.D.
University Attended:
University of Nevada Reno
Class of 1978
B.A.
Birth Information:
Born in 1956
San Francisco, California, March 23, 1956
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada; State Bar of California; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada (President, 1998); Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada (Board of Directors 2006); Defense Research Institute.
University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law Juris Doctorate, 1981
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law:
-Civil Litigation
-Personal Injury
-Medical Malpractice
-Construction Defect
-Nursing Malpractice
-Architect/Engineer
-Social Security Disability
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
Admitted in 1990, Nevada
1991, U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
Law School Attended:
Loyola Law School
Class of 1990
J.D.
University Attended:
Whitman College
Class of 1987
B.A.
History
Birth Information:
Born in 1965
Denver, Colorado, April 25, 1965
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada.
Loyola Law School
Juris Doctorate, 1990
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law:
-Civil Litigation
-Personal Injury
-Medical Malpractice
-Construction Defect
-Nursing Malpractice
-Architect/Engineer
-Social Security Disability
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
Admitted in 1990, Nevada
1991, U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
Law School Attended:
Loyola Law School
Class of 1990
J.D.
University Attended:
Whitman College
Class of 1987
B.A.
History
Birth Information:
Born in 1965
Denver, Colorado, April 25, 1965
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada.
Loyola Law School Juris Doctorate, 1990
Attorney in Reno, NV
Law Clerk to U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Phyllis Halsey Atkins; Member, Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern Nevada (President, 2005); Member, Board of Directors of Northern Nevada Human Resources Association (President, 2009). Author: "Setting Up Retaliation Claim for Summary Judgment," FOR THE DEFENSE (DRI; August 2005); "The Undocumented Worker: Illegal Aliens Have Civil Rights, Too," FOR THE DEFENSE (DRI, October 2006); "Employment Issues and Undocumented Workers," NEVADA LAWYER, August 2006. Author, Nevada Section DRI 50 State Compendium on Employment Law (2005); Electronic Information and Litigation Holds (NNHRA Newsletter - June 2007); "Religious Accommodation and Public Sector Employees," FOR THE DEFENSE (DRI, October 2007).
Areas of Law:
-Labor and Employment
-Employment Discrimination
-Civil Rights
-Americans with Disabilities Act
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2000, Nevada and U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
2001, California
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
Class of 1999
J.D.
University Attended:
California State University
Class of 1978
B.A., Government
Birth Information:
Born in 1953
Port Huron, Michigan, October 7, 1953
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada; State Bar of California; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; Defense Research Institute; Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association (President, 2004); Northern Nevada Human Resource Association (President, 2009).
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
Juris Doctorate, 1999
Attorney in Reno, NV
Law Clerk to U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Phyllis Halsey Atkins; Member, Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern Nevada (President, 2005); Member, Board of Directors of Northern Nevada Human Resources Association (President, 2009). Author: "Setting Up Retaliation Claim for Summary Judgment," FOR THE DEFENSE (DRI; August 2005); "The Undocumented Worker: Illegal Aliens Have Civil Rights, Too," FOR THE DEFENSE (DRI, October 2006); "Employment Issues and Undocumented Workers," NEVADA LAWYER, August 2006. Author, Nevada Section DRI 50 State Compendium on Employment Law (2005); Electronic Information and Litigation Holds (NNHRA Newsletter - June 2007); "Religious Accommodation and Public Sector Employees," FOR THE DEFENSE (DRI, October 2007).
Areas of Law:
-Labor and Employment
-Employment Discrimination
-Civil Rights
-Americans with Disabilities Act
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2000, Nevada and U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
2001, California
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
Class of 1999
J.D.
University Attended:
California State University
Class of 1978
B.A., Government
Birth Information:
Born in 1953
Port Huron, Michigan, October 7, 1953
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada; State Bar of California; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; Defense Research Institute; Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association (President, 2004); Northern Nevada Human Resource Association (President, 2009).
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific Juris Doctorate, 1999
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law:
-Employment Law
-Insurance Defense
-Civil Rights
-Government Tort Liability
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 2003, Nevada and U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-2004, California, U.S. District Court, Eastern District of -California and U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
-2007, Tribal Court of Nevada and California
Law School Attended:
University of Cincinnati Law School
Class of 2003
J.D.
University Attended:
Bowling Green State University
Class of 2000
B.S., Journalism and English
summa cum laude
Birth Information:
Born in 1978
Bowling Green, Ohio, July 1, 1978
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar and American Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada and Northern California; Defense Research Institute.
University of Cincinnati Law School
Juris Doctorate, 2003
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law:
-Employment Law
-Insurance Defense
-Civil Rights
-Government Tort Liability
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 2003, Nevada and U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-2004, California, U.S. District Court, Eastern District of -California and U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
-2007, Tribal Court of Nevada and California
Law School Attended:
University of Cincinnati Law School
Class of 2003
J.D.
University Attended:
Bowling Green State University
Class of 2000
B.S., Journalism and English
summa cum laude
Birth Information:
Born in 1978
Bowling Green, Ohio, July 1, 1978
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar and American Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada and Northern California; Defense Research Institute.
University of Cincinnati Law School Juris Doctorate, 2003
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law:
-Insurance Coverage
-Insurance Bad Faith
-Civil Rights
-Insurance Contracts
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 1990, California
-1992, Nevada
-1995, U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-1999, U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law
Class of 1990
J.D.
University Attended:
University of Central Florida
Class of 1985
B.A., History
Birth Information:
Born in 1963
Daytona Beach, Florida, April 18, 1963
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of California; State Bar of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; Defense Research Institute.
McGeorge School of Law
Juris Doctorate, 1990
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law:
-Insurance Coverage
-Insurance Bad Faith
-Civil Rights
-Insurance Contracts
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 1990, California
-1992, Nevada
-1995, U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-1999, U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law
Class of 1990
J.D.
University Attended:
University of Central Florida
Class of 1985
B.A., History
Birth Information:
Born in 1963
Daytona Beach, Florida, April 18, 1963
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of California; State Bar of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; Defense Research Institute.
McGeorge School of Law Juris Doctorate, 1990
Attorney in Reno, NV
Ms. Pressler was admitted to the State Bar of Nevada in 2003, serving as judicial clerk for Justice A. William Maupin of the Nevada Supreme Court that same year. She is currently a member of the Washoe County, Nevada and American Bar Associations, a member of the State Bar of Nevada's Construction Law Section (Chair 2012), and recipient of the 2010 Nevada Business Magazine Northern Nevada's Top 25 Lawyers and Reno Gazette Journal's 2010 Twenty under 40 Award.
She is also a member of the Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada (President, 2008), the Defense Research Institute, the Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association (President, 2007-2008) and the American Inns of Court (Bruce R. Thompson Chapter, 2003- 2007).
Selected publications authored by Ms. Pressler include "NRS Chapter 40 & the Evolving Area of Construction Defect Litigation In Nevada," ADC Defense Comment, Summer 2007.
Areas of Law:
-Construction Law
-Insurance Defense
-Civil Litigation
-Personal Injury
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2003, Nevada
Law School Attended:
Whittier Law School
Class of 2003
J.D.
Cum Laude
University Attended:
University of Nevada, Reno
Class of 1997
B.A., Psychology
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association (President, 2007); Inns of Court; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada (President, 2008); Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; Defense Research Institute; State Bar of Nevada (Chair, Construction Law Section, 2012).
Whittier Law School
Juris Doctorate, cum laude, 2003
Attorney in Reno, NV
Ms. Pressler was admitted to the State Bar of Nevada in 2003, serving as judicial clerk for Justice A. William Maupin of the Nevada Supreme Court that same year. She is currently a member of the Washoe County, Nevada and American Bar Associations, a member of the State Bar of Nevada's Construction Law Section (Chair 2012), and recipient of the 2010 Nevada Business Magazine Northern Nevada's Top 25 Lawyers and Reno Gazette Journal's 2010 Twenty under 40 Award.
She is also a member of the Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada (President, 2008), the Defense Research Institute, the Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association (President, 2007-2008) and the American Inns of Court (Bruce R. Thompson Chapter, 2003- 2007).
Selected publications authored by Ms. Pressler include "NRS Chapter 40 & the Evolving Area of Construction Defect Litigation In Nevada," ADC Defense Comment, Summer 2007.
Areas of Law:
-Construction Law
-Insurance Defense
-Civil Litigation
-Personal Injury
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2003, Nevada
Law School Attended:
Whittier Law School
Class of 2003
J.D.
Cum Laude
University Attended:
University of Nevada, Reno
Class of 1997
B.A., Psychology
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association (President, 2007); Inns of Court; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada (President, 2008); Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; Defense Research Institute; State Bar of Nevada (Chair, Construction Law Section, 2012).
Whittier Law School Juris Doctorate, cum laude, 2003
Attorney in Reno, NV
Formerly with Alexander & Associates; Assistant Special Education Director, Nevada Department of Education, (1990-2000). Presenter, state, regional and national conferences concerning special education law. Co-Author, "Special Education Guide for Nevada School Administrators".
Areas of Law:
-Education Law
-Disability Discrimination
-Special Education
-Civil Rights
-Civil Practice
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 2000, Nevada, California and U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-U.S. Supreme Court
Law School Attended:
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
Class of 1999
J.D.
University Attended:
Boise State University
Class of 1975
B.A., English
University of Arizona:
Class of 1982
M.Ed.
University of Arizona:
Class of 1987
Ph.D., Elementary Education
Birth Information:
Born in 1954
Lodi, California, October 15, 1954
Associations & Memberships:
Nevada and American Bar Associations; Northern Nevada Women Lawyer's Association; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Association of Defense Counsel of Northern Nevada; Defense Research Institute.
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
Juris Doctorate, 1999
Attorney in Reno, NV
Formerly with Alexander & Associates; Assistant Special Education Director, Nevada Department of Education, (1990-2000). Presenter, state, regional and national conferences concerning special education law. Co-Author, "Special Education Guide for Nevada School Administrators".
Areas of Law:
-Education Law
-Disability Discrimination
-Special Education
-Civil Rights
-Civil Practice
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 2000, Nevada, California and U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-U.S. Supreme Court
Law School Attended:
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
Class of 1999
J.D.
University Attended:
Boise State University
Class of 1975
B.A., English
University of Arizona:
Class of 1982
M.Ed.
University of Arizona:
Class of 1987
Ph.D., Elementary Education
Birth Information:
Born in 1954
Lodi, California, October 15, 1954
Associations & Memberships:
Nevada and American Bar Associations; Northern Nevada Women Lawyer's Association; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Association of Defense Counsel of Northern Nevada; Defense Research Institute.
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law Juris Doctorate, 1999
Attorney in Reno, NV
Staff Writer, "The Scholar Law Review," St. Mary's University School of Law, 2006.
Areas of Law:
-Labor and Employment
-Civil Rights
-Litigation
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Associate
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2007, Nevada
Law School Attended:
St. Mary's University School of Law
Class of 2007
J.D.
cum laude
University Attended:
University of Nevada
Class of 1998
B.S.
Business Management with an emphasis in Human Resources Management
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada; Defense Research Institute; Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association; Northern Nevada Human Resources Association; Society for Human Resource Management.
St. Mary's University School of Law
Juris Doctorate, cum laude, 2007
Attorney in Reno, NV
Staff Writer, "The Scholar Law Review," St. Mary's University School of Law, 2006.
Areas of Law:
-Labor and Employment
-Civil Rights
-Litigation
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Associate
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2007, Nevada
Law School Attended:
St. Mary's University School of Law
Class of 2007
J.D.
cum laude
University Attended:
University of Nevada
Class of 1998
B.S.
Business Management with an emphasis in Human Resources Management
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada; Defense Research Institute; Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association; Northern Nevada Human Resources Association; Society for Human Resource Management.
St. Mary's University School of Law Juris Doctorate, cum laude, 2007
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law
Construction Law
Construction Defects
Litigation
Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Associate
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2009, Nevada
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law
Class of 2008
J.D.
University Attended:
University of Nevada, Reno
Class of 2005
B.S.
Criminal Justice
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County and American Bar Associations; State Bar of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada; Defense Research Institute.
McGeorge School of Law
Juris Doctorate, 2008
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law
Construction Law
Construction Defects
Litigation
Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Associate
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2009, Nevada
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law
Class of 2008
J.D.
University Attended:
University of Nevada, Reno
Class of 2005
B.S.
Criminal Justice
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County and American Bar Associations; State Bar of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada; Defense Research Institute.
McGeorge School of Law Juris Doctorate, 2008
Erickson, Thorpe & Swainston was founded in 1969. Since that time, the Firm has efficiently and successfully represented its clients in state and federal courts in Nevada and Northern California. As experienced trial and appellate attorneys, we vigorously advocate our clients' interests while remaining committed to the principles of the highest legal ethics.
Erickson, Thorpe & Swainston offers committed support in all phases of commercial and civil litigation, including labor and employment law and associated preventative employment services. We provide the experience necessary to meet our clients' expectations for an effective, efficient and timely resolution of their conflicts and issues. Our continued success in this highly competitive market demonstrates our widely recognized ability to deliver satisfaction and positive outcome to those who give us their trust - our clients.
Areas of Law:
-General Civil and Trial Practice in all State and Federal Courts.
-Products Liability
-Professional Liability
-Medical-Dental
-Legal
-Architect-Engineer and Real Estate Broker-Agent Malpractice
-Insurance Defense.
-Personal Injury
-Civil Rights
-Aviation
-Commercial Litigation
-Labor and Employment Law
Main Office
99 West Arroyo Street
Reno, NV 89509
775-786-3930
775-786-4160
Working With Employers
Erickson, Thorpe & Swainston, Ltd., offers comprehensive employment law services and representation to Nevada's employers, employees and public entities. The preventative employment services our employment law division can provide include developing or reviewing your company handbooks and policies, including policies related to sexual harassment prevention, ADA/FMLA accommodations, workplace violence, drug testing and all other means of preventing claims and complying with state and federal law. We conduct sexual harassment training all over Nevada and eastern California. Erickson, Thorpe & Swainston can conduct, or assist in, the investigation and resolution of harassment or discrimination complaints.
The law firm has responded to and defended hundreds of administrative complaints and union grievances. We have over 35 years of representing Nevada's employers if a lawsuit is filed. We pride ourselves on our attention to your case and our accessibility to the client. We can provide the vigorous legal representation you need to put you in the best possible position to minimize or avoid liability.
Attorney in Reno, NV
Order of the Coif. Member, Traynor Honor Society. Recipient, American Jurisprudence Award in Constitutional Law. Listed, Best Lawyers in America, 2007. Judge Pro Tempore, Nevada "Short Trial" Program.
Areas of Law:
-Personal Injury
-Labor and Employment
-Employment Discrimination
-Civil Rights Litigation
-Sexual Harassment
-Construction Litigation
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 1986, Nevada
-1987, California
-U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-U.S. District Court, Northern, Eastern, Central and Southern Districts of California
-U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit and U.S. Supreme Court
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
Class of 1986
J.D.
with distinction
University Attended:
University of Nevada, Reno
Class of 1982
B.A.
Birth Information:
Born in 1960
Tonopah, Nevada, September 7, 1960
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada (Member: Disciplinary Panel; Fee Dispute Committee); State Bar of California; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Defense Research Institute, Inc.; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), 2005; Best Lawyers in America in Personal Injury Litigation 2007; Nevada Super Lawyer 2008; Masters, American Inns of Court.
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
Juris Doctorate, with distinction, 1986
Attorney in Reno, NV
Order of the Coif. Member, Traynor Honor Society. Recipient, American Jurisprudence Award in Constitutional Law. Listed, Best Lawyers in America, 2007. Judge Pro Tempore, Nevada "Short Trial" Program.
Areas of Law:
-Personal Injury
-Labor and Employment
-Employment Discrimination
-Civil Rights Litigation
-Sexual Harassment
-Construction Litigation
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 1986, Nevada
-1987, California
-U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-U.S. District Court, Northern, Eastern, Central and Southern Districts of California
-U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit and U.S. Supreme Court
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
Class of 1986
J.D.
with distinction
University Attended:
University of Nevada, Reno
Class of 1982
B.A.
Birth Information:
Born in 1960
Tonopah, Nevada, September 7, 1960
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada (Member: Disciplinary Panel; Fee Dispute Committee); State Bar of California; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Defense Research Institute, Inc.; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), 2005; Best Lawyers in America in Personal Injury Litigation 2007; Nevada Super Lawyer 2008; Masters, American Inns of Court.
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific Juris Doctorate, with distinction, 1986
Attorney in Reno, NV
Deputy District Attorney, Washoe County District Attorney's Office, 1981-1987. Chief Deputy District Attorney, Washoe County, 1987-1989.
Areas of Law:
-Civil Litigation
-Labor and Employment
-Personal Injury
-Real Estate Brokers Malpractice
-Insurance Defense
-Professional Liability
-Medical Malpractice
-Americans with Disabilities Act
-Premises Liability
-Civil Rights Litigation
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 1981, Nevada
-1982, California
-U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California
-U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
Law School Attended:
University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law
Class of 1981
J.D.
University Attended:
University of Nevada Reno
Class of 1978
B.A.
Birth Information:
Born in 1956
San Francisco, California, March 23, 1956
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada; State Bar of California; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada (President, 1998); Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada (Board of Directors 2006); Defense Research Institute.
University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law
Juris Doctorate, 1981
Attorney in Reno, NV
Deputy District Attorney, Washoe County District Attorney's Office, 1981-1987. Chief Deputy District Attorney, Washoe County, 1987-1989.
Areas of Law:
-Civil Litigation
-Labor and Employment
-Personal Injury
-Real Estate Brokers Malpractice
-Insurance Defense
-Professional Liability
-Medical Malpractice
-Americans with Disabilities Act
-Premises Liability
-Civil Rights Litigation
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 1981, Nevada
-1982, California
-U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California
-U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
Law School Attended:
University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law
Class of 1981
J.D.
University Attended:
University of Nevada Reno
Class of 1978
B.A.
Birth Information:
Born in 1956
San Francisco, California, March 23, 1956
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada; State Bar of California; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada (President, 1998); Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada (Board of Directors 2006); Defense Research Institute.
University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law Juris Doctorate, 1981
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law:
-Civil Litigation
-Personal Injury
-Medical Malpractice
-Construction Defect
-Nursing Malpractice
-Architect/Engineer
-Social Security Disability
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
Admitted in 1990, Nevada
1991, U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
Law School Attended:
Loyola Law School
Class of 1990
J.D.
University Attended:
Whitman College
Class of 1987
B.A.
History
Birth Information:
Born in 1965
Denver, Colorado, April 25, 1965
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada.
Loyola Law School
Juris Doctorate, 1990
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law:
-Civil Litigation
-Personal Injury
-Medical Malpractice
-Construction Defect
-Nursing Malpractice
-Architect/Engineer
-Social Security Disability
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
Admitted in 1990, Nevada
1991, U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
Law School Attended:
Loyola Law School
Class of 1990
J.D.
University Attended:
Whitman College
Class of 1987
B.A.
History
Birth Information:
Born in 1965
Denver, Colorado, April 25, 1965
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada.
Loyola Law School Juris Doctorate, 1990
Attorney in Reno, NV
Law Clerk to U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Phyllis Halsey Atkins; Member, Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern Nevada (President, 2005); Member, Board of Directors of Northern Nevada Human Resources Association (President, 2009). Author: "Setting Up Retaliation Claim for Summary Judgment," FOR THE DEFENSE (DRI; August 2005); "The Undocumented Worker: Illegal Aliens Have Civil Rights, Too," FOR THE DEFENSE (DRI, October 2006); "Employment Issues and Undocumented Workers," NEVADA LAWYER, August 2006. Author, Nevada Section DRI 50 State Compendium on Employment Law (2005); Electronic Information and Litigation Holds (NNHRA Newsletter - June 2007); "Religious Accommodation and Public Sector Employees," FOR THE DEFENSE (DRI, October 2007).
Areas of Law:
-Labor and Employment
-Employment Discrimination
-Civil Rights
-Americans with Disabilities Act
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2000, Nevada and U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
2001, California
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
Class of 1999
J.D.
University Attended:
California State University
Class of 1978
B.A., Government
Birth Information:
Born in 1953
Port Huron, Michigan, October 7, 1953
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada; State Bar of California; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; Defense Research Institute; Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association (President, 2004); Northern Nevada Human Resource Association (President, 2009).
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
Juris Doctorate, 1999
Attorney in Reno, NV
Law Clerk to U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Phyllis Halsey Atkins; Member, Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern Nevada (President, 2005); Member, Board of Directors of Northern Nevada Human Resources Association (President, 2009). Author: "Setting Up Retaliation Claim for Summary Judgment," FOR THE DEFENSE (DRI; August 2005); "The Undocumented Worker: Illegal Aliens Have Civil Rights, Too," FOR THE DEFENSE (DRI, October 2006); "Employment Issues and Undocumented Workers," NEVADA LAWYER, August 2006. Author, Nevada Section DRI 50 State Compendium on Employment Law (2005); Electronic Information and Litigation Holds (NNHRA Newsletter - June 2007); "Religious Accommodation and Public Sector Employees," FOR THE DEFENSE (DRI, October 2007).
Areas of Law:
-Labor and Employment
-Employment Discrimination
-Civil Rights
-Americans with Disabilities Act
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2000, Nevada and U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
2001, California
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific
Class of 1999
J.D.
University Attended:
California State University
Class of 1978
B.A., Government
Birth Information:
Born in 1953
Port Huron, Michigan, October 7, 1953
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada; State Bar of California; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; Defense Research Institute; Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association (President, 2004); Northern Nevada Human Resource Association (President, 2009).
McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific Juris Doctorate, 1999
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law:
-Employment Law
-Insurance Defense
-Civil Rights
-Government Tort Liability
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 2003, Nevada and U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-2004, California, U.S. District Court, Eastern District of -California and U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
-2007, Tribal Court of Nevada and California
Law School Attended:
University of Cincinnati Law School
Class of 2003
J.D.
University Attended:
Bowling Green State University
Class of 2000
B.S., Journalism and English
summa cum laude
Birth Information:
Born in 1978
Bowling Green, Ohio, July 1, 1978
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar and American Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada and Northern California; Defense Research Institute.
University of Cincinnati Law School
Juris Doctorate, 2003
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law:
-Employment Law
-Insurance Defense
-Civil Rights
-Government Tort Liability
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 2003, Nevada and U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-2004, California, U.S. District Court, Eastern District of -California and U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
-2007, Tribal Court of Nevada and California
Law School Attended:
University of Cincinnati Law School
Class of 2003
J.D.
University Attended:
Bowling Green State University
Class of 2000
B.S., Journalism and English
summa cum laude
Birth Information:
Born in 1978
Bowling Green, Ohio, July 1, 1978
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar and American Bar Association; State Bar of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada and Northern California; Defense Research Institute.
University of Cincinnati Law School Juris Doctorate, 2003
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law:
-Insurance Coverage
-Insurance Bad Faith
-Civil Rights
-Insurance Contracts
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 1990, California
-1992, Nevada
-1995, U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-1999, U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law
Class of 1990
J.D.
University Attended:
University of Central Florida
Class of 1985
B.A., History
Birth Information:
Born in 1963
Daytona Beach, Florida, April 18, 1963
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of California; State Bar of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; Defense Research Institute.
McGeorge School of Law
Juris Doctorate, 1990
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law:
-Insurance Coverage
-Insurance Bad Faith
-Civil Rights
-Insurance Contracts
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 1990, California
-1992, Nevada
-1995, U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-1999, U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law
Class of 1990
J.D.
University Attended:
University of Central Florida
Class of 1985
B.A., History
Birth Information:
Born in 1963
Daytona Beach, Florida, April 18, 1963
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; State Bar of California; State Bar of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; Defense Research Institute.
McGeorge School of Law Juris Doctorate, 1990
Attorney in Reno, NV
Ms. Pressler was admitted to the State Bar of Nevada in 2003, serving as judicial clerk for Justice A. William Maupin of the Nevada Supreme Court that same year. She is currently a member of the Washoe County, Nevada and American Bar Associations, a member of the State Bar of Nevada's Construction Law Section (Chair 2012), and recipient of the 2010 Nevada Business Magazine Northern Nevada's Top 25 Lawyers and Reno Gazette Journal's 2010 Twenty under 40 Award.
She is also a member of the Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada (President, 2008), the Defense Research Institute, the Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association (President, 2007-2008) and the American Inns of Court (Bruce R. Thompson Chapter, 2003- 2007).
Selected publications authored by Ms. Pressler include "NRS Chapter 40 & the Evolving Area of Construction Defect Litigation In Nevada," ADC Defense Comment, Summer 2007.
Areas of Law:
-Construction Law
-Insurance Defense
-Civil Litigation
-Personal Injury
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2003, Nevada
Law School Attended:
Whittier Law School
Class of 2003
J.D.
Cum Laude
University Attended:
University of Nevada, Reno
Class of 1997
B.A., Psychology
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association (President, 2007); Inns of Court; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada (President, 2008); Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; Defense Research Institute; State Bar of Nevada (Chair, Construction Law Section, 2012).
Whittier Law School
Juris Doctorate, cum laude, 2003
Attorney in Reno, NV
Ms. Pressler was admitted to the State Bar of Nevada in 2003, serving as judicial clerk for Justice A. William Maupin of the Nevada Supreme Court that same year. She is currently a member of the Washoe County, Nevada and American Bar Associations, a member of the State Bar of Nevada's Construction Law Section (Chair 2012), and recipient of the 2010 Nevada Business Magazine Northern Nevada's Top 25 Lawyers and Reno Gazette Journal's 2010 Twenty under 40 Award.
She is also a member of the Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada (President, 2008), the Defense Research Institute, the Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association (President, 2007-2008) and the American Inns of Court (Bruce R. Thompson Chapter, 2003- 2007).
Selected publications authored by Ms. Pressler include "NRS Chapter 40 & the Evolving Area of Construction Defect Litigation In Nevada," ADC Defense Comment, Summer 2007.
Areas of Law:
-Construction Law
-Insurance Defense
-Civil Litigation
-Personal Injury
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2003, Nevada
Law School Attended:
Whittier Law School
Class of 2003
J.D.
Cum Laude
University Attended:
University of Nevada, Reno
Class of 1997
B.A., Psychology
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association (President, 2007); Inns of Court; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada (President, 2008); Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California; Defense Research Institute; State Bar of Nevada (Chair, Construction Law Section, 2012).
Whittier Law School Juris Doctorate, cum laude, 2003
Attorney in Reno, NV
Formerly with Alexander & Associates; Assistant Special Education Director, Nevada Department of Education, (1990-2000). Presenter, state, regional and national conferences concerning special education law. Co-Author, "Special Education Guide for Nevada School Administrators".
Areas of Law:
-Education Law
-Disability Discrimination
-Special Education
-Civil Rights
-Civil Practice
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 2000, Nevada, California and U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-U.S. Supreme Court
Law School Attended:
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
Class of 1999
J.D.
University Attended:
Boise State University
Class of 1975
B.A., English
University of Arizona:
Class of 1982
M.Ed.
University of Arizona:
Class of 1987
Ph.D., Elementary Education
Birth Information:
Born in 1954
Lodi, California, October 15, 1954
Associations & Memberships:
Nevada and American Bar Associations; Northern Nevada Women Lawyer's Association; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Association of Defense Counsel of Northern Nevada; Defense Research Institute.
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
Juris Doctorate, 1999
Attorney in Reno, NV
Formerly with Alexander & Associates; Assistant Special Education Director, Nevada Department of Education, (1990-2000). Presenter, state, regional and national conferences concerning special education law. Co-Author, "Special Education Guide for Nevada School Administrators".
Areas of Law:
-Education Law
-Disability Discrimination
-Special Education
-Civil Rights
-Civil Practice
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Member
Admission Details:
-Admitted in 2000, Nevada, California and U.S. District Court, District of Nevada
-U.S. Supreme Court
Law School Attended:
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
Class of 1999
J.D.
University Attended:
Boise State University
Class of 1975
B.A., English
University of Arizona:
Class of 1982
M.Ed.
University of Arizona:
Class of 1987
Ph.D., Elementary Education
Birth Information:
Born in 1954
Lodi, California, October 15, 1954
Associations & Memberships:
Nevada and American Bar Associations; Northern Nevada Women Lawyer's Association; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Association of Defense Counsel of Northern Nevada; Defense Research Institute.
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law Juris Doctorate, 1999
Attorney in Reno, NV
Staff Writer, "The Scholar Law Review," St. Mary's University School of Law, 2006.
Areas of Law:
-Labor and Employment
-Civil Rights
-Litigation
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Associate
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2007, Nevada
Law School Attended:
St. Mary's University School of Law
Class of 2007
J.D.
cum laude
University Attended:
University of Nevada
Class of 1998
B.S.
Business Management with an emphasis in Human Resources Management
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada; Defense Research Institute; Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association; Northern Nevada Human Resources Association; Society for Human Resource Management.
St. Mary's University School of Law
Juris Doctorate, cum laude, 2007
Attorney in Reno, NV
Staff Writer, "The Scholar Law Review," St. Mary's University School of Law, 2006.
Areas of Law:
-Labor and Employment
-Civil Rights
-Litigation
-Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Associate
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2007, Nevada
Law School Attended:
St. Mary's University School of Law
Class of 2007
J.D.
cum laude
University Attended:
University of Nevada
Class of 1998
B.S.
Business Management with an emphasis in Human Resources Management
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County Bar Association; Association of Defense Counsel of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada; Defense Research Institute; Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association; Northern Nevada Human Resources Association; Society for Human Resource Management.
St. Mary's University School of Law Juris Doctorate, cum laude, 2007
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law
Construction Law
Construction Defects
Litigation
Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Associate
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2009, Nevada
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law
Class of 2008
J.D.
University Attended:
University of Nevada, Reno
Class of 2005
B.S.
Criminal Justice
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County and American Bar Associations; State Bar of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada; Defense Research Institute.
McGeorge School of Law
Juris Doctorate, 2008
Attorney in Reno, NV
Areas of Law
Construction Law
Construction Defects
Litigation
Insurance Defense
Experience & Credentials:
Position:
Associate
Admission Details:
Admitted in 2009, Nevada
Law School Attended:
McGeorge School of Law
Class of 2008
J.D.
University Attended:
University of Nevada, Reno
Class of 2005
B.S.
Criminal Justice
Associations & Memberships:
Washoe County and American Bar Associations; State Bar of Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern Nevada; Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California and Nevada; Defense Research Institute.
McGeorge School of Law Juris Doctorate, 2008
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