Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani is proud to announce that Debra Ellwood Meppen, Chair of the firm's National Employment Law Practice Group, and Mercedes Colwin, Founding Partner of the firm's New York City office, have once again been named to the prestigious Lawdragon 500 Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers guide for 2025. Their inclusion highlights the exceptional work they continue to provide in corporate employment law from coast to coast.
On the West Coast, Debra Meppen has been recognized for resolving complex employment disputes within the entertainment industry. Known for her expertise in protecting high-profile clients, Meppen has developed a reputation as a skilled negotiator, often described as a "dragon slayer" for her ability to resolve challenging cases without resorting to litigation. Her leadership within the firm extends beyond the courtroom, where she plays a pivotal role as Chair of the firm's Women's Initiative and Co-chair of the Leadership, Equality, and Diversity program, furthering diversity and empowerment for women attorneys.
On the East Coast, Mercedes Colwin, a prominent trial attorney, continues to earn recognition for her vast experience across various litigation areas, including employment law, commercial litigation, and class actions. Having achieved a success rate of over 90 percent in trials and proceedings, Colwin is renowned for her relentless advocacy and outstanding legal acumen. In addition to her legal achievements, she has been recognized by Forbes Business American Airlines as one of the six most influential women in America. She has received the Graciela Olivarez Award from Notre Dame Law School, an honor shared with Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor.
The Lawdragon 500 Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers guide recognizes the top attorneys specializing in employment litigation, discrimination, wage and hour disputes, and trade secret defense, among other key areas.
Both Meppen and Colwin exemplify the caliber of leadership and skill that have earned them repeated accolades in this elite category. The firm celebrates these outstanding "law dragons" from both coasts and their continued commitment to delivering exceptional results for our clients
Read more about the 2025 Lawdragon 500 Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers guide.