Sarah regularly conducts complex investigations across the public and private sectors.  In her work in the public sector, Sarah is well-informed regarding the rules and laws related to sworn peace officers and fire personnel.  She often manages large-scale and complex investigations involving high-level officials working in public safety and government positions. 

Sarah also conducts investigations in the private sector, in various industries such as technology and finance.  She works diligently to earn the trust of her clients and to build rapport with witnesses, complainants, and respondents alike to ensure that she gathers as much information related to her investigations as possible. 

In addition to her commitment to the practice of workplace investigations, Sarah also presents on topics related to best practices in investigations and complicated situations that can arise in investigations.  She has presented at the CALPELRA conference and conducted an Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI) webinar.  Sarah is committed to educating the public about the practice of neutral workplace investigations and the complex and varied situations that arise while conducting them.      

Prior to joining Van Dermyden Makus, Sarah represented a wide range of public employee associations, and their members, in administrative hearings and various labor and employment settings. 

Sarah previously represented and guided employees in diverse occupations throughout the disciplinary process, with a focus on the complex and vital careers of public safety officers.  This included internal affairs investigations, Skelly hearings, and evidentiary administrative hearings, as well as the day-to-day issues arising on the job.  Sarah also served as an Assistant City Attorney, during which time she advised public employees on matters ranging from the California Public Records Act to the structure and contents of City Council and Board of Public Utilities Meetings. 

Sarah worked in Civil Litigation for several years prior to her work in employment law.  She represented various builders and businesses throughout the litigation process, always with a focus on achieving the best possible outcome for her clients.

Sarah graduated from University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law with Distinction and with a concentration in business.  Sarah earned a Witkin Award in Sports Law along with appearing on the Dean’s Honor List.  Sarah also served as a Research Assistant during her time at McGeorge, for a second-year legal writing course. 

CA State Bar No. 290119