Cory Mickels’ practice encompasses employment counseling and litigation, as well as business and commercial litigation for clients across diverse industries. From individual complaints to complex class actions, in both state and federal court, Cory has successfully dealt with cases involving discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wage and hour, wrongful termination and PAGA violations.

In addition to complex employment law cases, Cory has litigated high-stakes breach of contract disputes and trademark infringement battles, consistently safeguarding his clients’ interests and securing favorable outcomes.

Whether navigating high-stakes litigation or intricate legal disputes, Cory’s dedication establishes him as a trusted advisor and staunch advocate for those confronting legal obstacles.

Beyond the law, Cory is committed to community service. He serves as the Board President for an award winning nonprofit, Open Door Legal, dedicated to providing universal access to the law. He is also the Board Secretary for SMART (Student Mentor & Resource Team), a nonprofit championing education equity for students on the journey to college. He serves on the audit committee for Live Oak School, an organization focused on empowering K-8 students. Additionally, he serves as a committee member for Bay Area Rapid Transit’s (BART) Equity Advisory Committee.

My legal approach centers on the client, ensuring each case receives the meticulous attention it merits. I am dedicated to delivering results that protect and uphold my clients’ interests.

Areas of Focus

Services

Sectors

Experience

 

 

Credentials

Education

  • University of San Francisco School of Law (J.D.)
  • University of San Francisco (B.A., Political Science)

Admissions

Bar Admissions

  • California

Court Admissions

  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California

Recognitions

  • Northern California Super Lawyers, Rising Star, Litigation, 2024

Presentations

  • Co-presenter, "Welcome to the Wild West: California Employment," Lathrop GPM 2024 Employment & Labor Law Seminar, October 23, 2024 (Minneapolis)
  • Co-presenter, “Two Threats and a Ray of Hope: What Employers Need to Know About Class Actions, PAGA, and Binding Arbitration,” August 13, 2024

Professional Activities

  • San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce, Member, 2023–Present
  • San Mateo Chamber of Commerce, Member, 2022–Present
  • San Francisco Bar Association, Insurance Committee Chair, 2021 – Present

Community Involvement

  • Open Door Legal, Board President, 2022–Present
  • Student Mentor And Resource Team (SMART), Board Secretary, 2022–Present
  • Live Oak School, Audit Committee Board Member, 2022–Present
  • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), Equity Advisory Committee Member, 2021–Present