Today we’re excited to be connecting with Toni Jaramilla again. If you haven’t already, we suggest you check out our prior conversation with them here.
Toni, thanks for joining us again. Just to level set a bit for folks who may have missed our last interview together, can you briefly introduce yourself?
I am an employment law and civil rights attorney based in Los Angeles, dedicated to combating all forms of workplace discrimination and harassment, including retaliation and wrongful termination. I also represent victims of police misconduct, such as wrongful arrest and excessive force (police beatings and shootings).
My parents immigrated from the Philippines seeking better opportunities in America. My father worked as a farmworker in Northern California, enduring harsh conditions, low wages, and blatant discrimination. Being the first in my family to earn a law degree, I was inspired by my father’s experiences to become a workers’ rights attorney. As a student activist at UCLA, I developed a passion for fighting injustices. My career has been defined by advocating for the underdog and driving change.
Great, so let’s jump into an update on what you have been up to since we last spoke. What can you share with us?
This year has been remarkable. I secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for my clients. Notably, I was interviewed to be featured in a documentary about a case where I represented women sexually harassed by a prominent CEO. I also advocated for parents whose son tragically died from fraternity hazing. We achieved a substantial seven-figure settlement, and my clients testified at the state capitol, leading to the enactment of “Tyler’s Law,” named after their son, Tyler Hilliard, and signed by Governor Newsom.
Additionally, I received the 2024 Community Service Award from the California Lawyers Association for promoting inclusion and diversity in the legal field. I am eager to continue making a difference in my clients’ lives, the community, and at the Capitol in the coming year.
Alright, so let’s do something a bit more fast-paced and lighthearted. We call this our lightning round and we’ll ask you a few quick questions.
- Favorite Band or Artist: Bob Marley, Lenny Kravitz, Olivia Rodrigo, Saweetie
- Sweet or Savory: Savory
- Mountains or Beach: Beach
- Favorite Sport (to watch): Women’s Volleyball
- Did you play sports growing up (if so which ones): Volleyball and basketball
- As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up: Doctor
- French Fries or Onion Rings: French Fries
- Favorite Cartoon growing up: Wonder Woman- Justice League
- Favorite Breakfast Food: Chicken and Waffles
What do you want people to remember about you and your brand? What are some of things that you feel are most important, unique, special, etc?
As lawyers, we wear many hats for our clients. We are advocates, problem solvers, and storytellers. We convey our client’s experiences to a jury or judge to seek justice. To succeed, we must listen well and show empathy. As a woman of color born to immigrant parents, I share life experiences with many of my clients, especially in discrimination cases. My compassionate nature fuels my fierce advocacy for those who have been wronged.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jaramilla.com
- Instagram: Toni Jaramilla
- Facebook: Toni Jaramilla, APLC
- LinkedIn: Toni Jaramilla
