Clarisse C. Petersen

Clarisse C. Petersen is a principal in the Orange County, California, office of Jackson Lewis P.C. She counsels and defends employers in all aspects of employment law, including wrongful termination, harassment, discrimination, retaliation, defamation, disability-related claims, and wage-and-hour violations.

Clarisse is a fierce advocate for employers who strives to connect with her clients to understand their story, their people, and their vision—which, in turn, allows her to craft thoughtful and practical solutions tailored to the client’s goals. Whenever possible, her advice to clients weaves in the same core values and collaborative environment that Jackson Lewis thrives on to this day.

Clarisse is an experienced litigator with a proven track record of success both inside and outside the courtroom. She has secured defense verdicts at trial and arbitration, achieved summary judgments or adjudications on her cases, and obtained favorable settlements for less than the client’s authority or potential exposure.

Beyond litigation, Clarisse’s true passion lies in recruiting and mentoring the firm’s next generation of leaders. Over the past decade, Clarisse has played an instrumental role in the growth of the Orange County office and the ongoing professional development of the team. Her keen eye for talent, constant pulse on the legal industry, and commitment to upholding the firm’s values and vision have brought in countless top-notch attorneys to Jackson Lewis. Clarisse’s contributions have expanded to the regional level, and many of her local initiatives and sourcing strategies now serve as a blueprint for recruitment and professional development across the firm’s seven California offices.

Prior to joining Jackson Lewis, Clarisse worked at a national law firm where she defended insurance companies in complex coverage disputes and bad-faith litigation. She also spent years litigating as a plaintiff’s attorney, representing individual and corporate clients in a variety of civil matters, including labor and employment. With her dual perspective on civil litigation and trials, Clarisse offers valuable insight into the many challenges that come with navigating employment lawsuits in California.

Honors and Recognitions

• Legal 500 USA, "Recommended Attorney" (2023)