Arcelia N. Magaña

Arcelia N. Magaña is an associate in the San Diego, California, office of Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete, LLP. An experienced litigator, she provides insight into best practices to develop a stable, high-functioning workforce to avoid the disruption and expense of litigation.

Arcelia has defended more than 20 wage and hour class and representative actions over the last seven years, including actions brought under the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA). Arcelia also handles discrimination and harassment cases, and responses to inquiries by the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). She recently helped a client secure a full defense arbitration award in a disability discrimination case.

To keep clients out of the courtroom, Arcelia partners with them to ensure they are informed of ongoing labor and employment policy developments and are prepared to ensure compliance.

Arcelia has particular experience defending hotels and restaurants in employment cases. Understanding the unique challenges facing hospitality employers today, she works to align her clients’ litigation strategy to their business goals and objectives.

Arcelia’s focus in labor and employment law began early in her legal career and she still finds this complex and constantly evolving area of law exciting. Arcelia began her career on the plaintiffs’ side, which provides the benefit of a well-rounded perspective and valuable insight when developing case strategies for her clients.

Arcelia speaks Spanish and dedicates much of her free time to advancing Latinos/as/xs academically and professionally through her various organizational memberships. Arcelia enjoys salsa dancing, running, reading, and spending time with her husband, nieces and nephews, and dogs Lula and Benito.