About

Jerry Pearson is a Partner at Young Wooldridge, LLP, and a member of the firm’s Business Department. He was born in Torrance, Calif., but grew up in Fresno where he also attended college. He received his bachelor’s degree in history from California State University Fresno and his Juris Doctorate from San Joaquin College of Law, also in Fresno.

Jerry’s practice is limited solely to representing management in labor and employment law issues and making sure his clients stay in compliance with the State and Federal labor laws. He has successfully defended employers in wage and hour matters, as well as cases alleging harassment, discrimination, wrongful termination and other labor-related issues before the California State Superior Court, the California Court of Appeals, the United States District Court, the California Labor Commissioner and the Department of Fair Employment and Housing.

In his representation of employers, Jerry has also drafted and helped implement “Return to Work/Interactive Process” programs, which help employers determine if reasonable accommodations exist for an employee’s return to work from injury or disability leave. He also regularly authors employee handbooks for employers, both large and small. Jerry prides himself on getting to know his clients and their businesses before he represents them so that he can provide optimal legal counsel that is tailored to the specific client and need. His clients include approximately 30 special districts throughout California, as well as private employers.

Prior to joining Young Wooldridge, Jerry was a deputy district attorney with the Kern County District Attorney’s Office where he prosecuted juvenile gang crimes. During his career, he has litigated over 200 cases to verdict.

Education
  • B.A., History, California State University, Fresno, 1991
  • J.D., San Joaquin College of Law, Fresno, 1995
Professional Associations
  • Kern County Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM), Board of Directors, 2008-2011; President-Elect 2012; President 2013; Past President – 2014-2015
    https://kcshrm.com/
Community Involvement
Awards
  • Honored as Best Business – Employment Law Attorney by the Kern County Bar Association, July 2008
    http://kernbar.org