If you are looking for an employment lawyer or workplace advisor who understands what you’re going through, you have come to the right place.
I offer “escape planning” to ensure your safe exit from a toxic workplace.
Are you…
Suffering from workplace abuse?
Being gaslit by your boss and / co-workers?
Feeling like people are talking behind your back?
Under investigation for something bogus?
Feeling like something is just “off”?
Worried you might get laid off or fired?
Experiencing attempts to silence you with NDAs or other tactics?
Planning to leave your current position in the next few months or preferably sooner?
You have rights and I can help you understand them. Let me help you exit a toxic workplace safely using escape planning.
FAQs about working with Michele Simon
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A smear campaign often begins with subtle changes such as sudden criticism, gossip, or exclusion that feels intentional. These behaviors are designed to isolate you and damage your credibility. I’ve lived through this kind of covert abuse myself, which is why I help clients recognize the signs early and protect their reputation before the damage spreads. Learn more here.
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Much sooner than most people realize. Many wait until they’ve already quit or been terminated, which can limit what a lawyer can do. The best time to reach out is while you still have access to your emails, files, and communication history. I can help you create a strategic plan and document what’s happening while you still have leverage. Reach out here.
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Workplace abuse cases are complex and deserve real time and care. I start each consultation by listening to your story, understanding the timeline, and identifying your goals. From there, I explain your options clearly and provide specific next steps. My approach is thorough because every detail matters when building a strategy that protects you. Learn more here.
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Gather documentation as early as possible. Save emails, chat messages, performance reviews, or any written notes that show shifts in tone or treatment. Keep them securely stored outside your work systems. The more organized your evidence, the easier it is for me to evaluate your case and guide you toward the best course of action. Reach out here.
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It is illegal for employers to retaliate against you for reporting harassment or discrimination, but retaliation can still happen in subtle ways. You might see your workload change, relationships shift, or reviews suddenly turn negative. If that happens, contact me right away so we can document it properly and take action to protect your rights. Learn more here.
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Yes. Workplace abuse has no borders, and the same manipulation tactics appear everywhere. I represent California employees directly, including remote workers, and advise clients in other states or countries on strategy, documentation, and safe exit planning. I can also connect you with trusted local attorneys when necessary. Reach out here.
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I charge a fair hourly rate (not a percentage) because I believe your severance belongs to you, not your lawyer. My consultations include real, actionable advice, not a quick screening. In some cases, I offer reduced or no-cost help depending on your situation. My goal is to make quality legal guidance accessible and financially transparent. Learn more here.
I’m Michele Simon, an employment lawyer who understands what you’re going through — because I’ve been there myself.
After a long career in food advocacy, I experienced a severe form of workplace trauma and lost everything I built due to a smear campaign. If I were not an attorney, I may have walked away with nothing.
I'm more than just an employment lawyer – I have survived severe workplace trauma and workplace betrayal, including a smear campaign. My personal experience gives me unique insight into the tactics used in toxic environments and the emotional toll they take.
I offer strategic legal counsel combined with genuine empathy to help you navigate your escape and reclaim your life. I represent clients in California and serve as a strategic workplace advisor throughout the United States and globally.
I specialize in covert abuse ….
Smear campaigns and workplace defamation
Psychological abuse, bullying, and gaslighting
Bogus investigations, ambush meetings with HR
Weaponizing of PIPs (performance improvement plan)
Moral injury — when your personal ethics collide with workplace practices.
Mobbing: when co-workers gang up on you.
Attempts to silence you by forcing you to sign a NDA (non-disclosure agreement).
I can help plan your exit either as your attorney in California, or as a strategic advisor in other states and around the world. Have more questions? Check out my FAQs.
How can I help you?
Smear Campaign Defense: Protect your reputation and career from false allegations.
Gaslighting & Psychological Abuse: Document and counter manipulation in the workplace.
Bogus Investigations & HR Ambush Tactics: Defend yourself against unfair disciplinary actions.
Workplace Bullying & Harassment: Take legal action to stop hostile treatment.
Moral Injury Support: Find resolution when workplace ethics violate your personal values.
NDA Guidance & Silencing Prevention: Understand your rights and resist oppressive silencing tactics.
I promise to….
Listen, really listen
Be honest about your options
Respect whatever path you take
Be in your corner no matter what
Remain available to you when you need me
Never, ever ghost you
Never advise you to agree to be silenced
Not take your business unless I can help you
Offer transparency and flexibility regarding my fees
Refer you to other lawyers more suited to your situation, if needed
My goal is to get you to safety, as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Have questions about working with me? I've answered the most common questions about my process, fees, and approach in my FAQs for clients.