
Dawn M. Irizarry
Partner & Co-Chair of CDF's Healthcare Industry Employment Defense Practice Group
About Dawn
Dawn M. Irizarry is a seasoned litigator with over 20 years’ experience defending California businesses in the full spectrum of employment law matters, with extensive experience representing clients in both Southern and Northern California. Dawn has litigated hundreds of matters involving claims of sexual harassment, unlawful discrimination, hostile work environment, retaliation, wrongful discharge, defamation, failure to accommodate, and related claims. Dawn also provides strategic advice and counsel to employers regarding California’s stringent employment laws, offering guidance on personnel policies, employee discipline, terminations, and other critical employment issues. Dawn has successfully represented clients in federal and state courts, before the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and state civil rights enforcement agencies, as well as through private mediation and arbitration.
As the chair of CDF’s Healthcare Industry Employment Practice Group, Dawn brings substantial expertise in representing employers in the healthcare industry, including hospitals, medical technology companies, physician groups, and urgent care centers.
Dawn also defends employers in a myriad of other industries, including aviation, the airline, technology, financial services, retail, hospitality, among others. Dawn prides herself on being responsive and in being a true collaborator with her clients in terms of learning their business and understanding the client needs that are specific to their industry and workplace dynamics.
Dawn boasts an impressive record of successful case outcomes, reflecting her deep expertise and commitment to her clients. Notably, Dawn has led the defense in numerous cases where summary judgment has been obtained, in its entirety, both in state and federal court and in arbitration. Dawn’s ability to navigate complex legal challenges and secure favorable results underscores her proficiency in employment law and her dedication to protecting her client’s interests.
Dawn is a sought-after speaker and author on topics ranging from employment law compliance in the healthcare industry to emerging legal trends and workforce management strategies for employers managing workforces in California. Dawn's ability to communicate complex legal issues in an accessible manner has made her a sought-after speaker and author in the field of employment law. Her expertise and engaging presentation style make her a valuable resource for employers navigating California’s complex legal landscape.
Areas of Practice
- EEO Litigation
- Wrongful Termination and Workplace Tort Litigation
- Workplace Solutions, Advice and Training
- Internal Investigations
Education
Southwestern University School of Law, J.D., cum laude, 2002
- Extern, Honorable Arthur Alarcon, Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, 2001
- Southwestern Law Review, Associate Editor, 2000-2002
- Southwestern Moot Court Honors Program, 2000
Florida International University, B.A., Human Resources Management, 1997
Publications
How Healthcare Employers Can Avoid the Legal Perils of a Remote Workforce
Compliance Tips for Healthcare Employers Utilizing AI in the Recruitment Process
The Legal Interplay Between Peer Review and Discipline of Physician-Employee
What Healthcare Organizations Can Do to Stay Compliant in the Era of Marijuana Legalization
Healthcare's Hurdles in 2020 Employment Law
Recognitions
Listed, Best Lawyers®, Employment Law - Management, Los Angeles, CA, 2023 - 2024
Listed, Southern California Super Lawyers, 2022 - 2025
Member, California Society for Healthcare Attorneys, 2021
Listed, Top Health Care Lawyers, Daily Journal, 2020
Member, California Hospital Association, 2018 – present
Listed, Southern California Super Lawyers - Rising Star, 2007
CDF Labor Law LLP
- Co-Chair, CDF's Healthcare Industry Employment Practice Group, 2023 - Present
- Chair, CDF's Healthcare Industry Employment Practice Group, 2019 - May 2023
- Liaison to Executive Committee, CDF Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, 2021 - Present
- Member, Executive Committee, 2021 - Present
National Institute for Trial Advocacy's Building Trial Skills Program, Participant
Pro Bono
Dawn has represented Salvadorian nationals seeking political asylum before the Los Angeles Immigration Court.