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Mika Marie Hilaire

Employment and labor Attorney at Sherman Oaks, CA

5.0   25 reviews
  • Licensed for 22 years
    State CA
    Acquired 2001
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Mika

Learn Mika’s areas of practice.

Attorney Mika M. Hilaire is a founding partner of the Equal Rights Law Group (). Ms. Hilaire's practice focuses on representing the interests of employees working in Los Angeles County, the Bay Area and throughout California, as well as nationally, in a wide range of matters related to employment law and litigation, including:

Civil Rights Law

Employment Litigation

Harassment

Sexual Harassment

Sexual Assault

Pregnancy Accommodations and Rights

Discrimination

Retaliation

Wage-and-hour disputes

Wrongful Termination

Negotiating Employment Contracts

Breach of contract

Invasion of privacy

Workplace Investigations

In addition to Ms. Hilaire's representation of clients, she also provides employment-related counsel. She regularly assists clients in contract negotiations, workplace negotiations and offers training on a variety of topics, such as sexual harassment and discrimination.

Ms. Hilaire earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Berkeley, with a major from the nationally recognized Rhetoric Department. While at Berkeley, she was a member of the Women’s Track and Field and Basketball teams. After earning her law degree from the University of California Hastings College of the Law and her admission to The State Bar of California in 2001, Ms. Hilaire began her legal career, immediately focused on employment law, giving her almost 20 years of valuable experience in the practice area.

Thanks to Ms. Hilaire's focus and extensive legal knowledge, she has secured countless successful settlements and verdicts for her clients, including one recent case that resulted in a $47 million verdict. Her long and impressive record of success has led to a number of honors, including a "Superb" rating from Avvo. Mika was recognized as a Southern California Super Lawyer in 2019 and 2020, and as a Southern Calfornia Rising Star from 2007-2013, for her representation of clients in employment law.

In addition to honors, Ms. Hilaire has also earned the respect of the legal community, in which she is an active member. She is a regular guest speaker on local, state and national levels. She is also a member of a number of organizations, including the Los Angeles County Bar Association.

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Contact Mika

Similar lawyers nearby

Equal Rights Law Firm
15233 Ventura Blvd., Suite 420
Sherman Oaks, CA, 91403

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  25 customer reviews
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Posted by Amber | June 14, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
5 Star Lawyer
From start to finish , Mika was attentive, personable and got the job done immaculately. She was very honest and explained everything to me so that I can understand everything . I would definitely recommend her and if ever in this situation I would hire Mika again.
Posted by Toni | March 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Social Services Consultant
Words can not adequately express the gratitude I have for Mika Hilaire of the Equal Rights Law Group. Ms. Hilaire was a Godsend at an extremely critical time in my life. Ms. Hilaire's legal expertise, professionalism and personability were her winning attributes. I thank you, again and again!!!
Posted by Tyler | September 3, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Trust The Process
Mika and her team helped me get through an extremely abusive work environment and helped ensure that I was fairly compensated for the emotional damage. Her team talked me through the structure of my lawsuit, all while encouraging me to trust the process. Thanks, Mika!
Posted by Jeannene Pinks | August 17, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding!!!
I am so thankful to have found Mika!! I have nothing but good things to say about her. I was extremely frustrated trying to find an attorney to take my case because no one would take the time to understand until I contacted Mika. She sat and actually listened to my case. She asked me multiple questions to understand what was going on, no one had done this before. The moment she agreed to take my case I knew I was in good hands and I constantly told her Im onboard with whatever she thought was best. I trusted her whole heartily. She constantly kept me updated on what was going on with my case. There was one time she even called me after hours just to check in on me. I really appreciated this. I felt like she really fought for me and got me what I deserved! I really could not have asked for a better attorney to help me through this dark time in my life. I am forever grateful for her and what she has done for myself and my family!
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Posted by anonymous | August 12, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mika Hilaire: A Top Notch Attorney You Definitely Want on Your Side
Mika handled an employment dispute on my behalf with a multi- billion dollar media conglomerate. While other lawyers couldn't see a path forward, Mika didn't hesitate. She listened to my challenges, offered guidance and was empathetic to my situation. When we encountered hurdles, her persistence and strategic negotiating expertise delivered impressive results. Mika thinks out of the box and is definitely an attorney you will want on your team.
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Posted by anonymous | June 3, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mika is one of the BEST in the business!!
I contacted Mika to help me with my case and she did exactly what I was told she was going to do! The outcome of my case would not have been what it was if it wasn’t for Mika. She is an extremely skilled attorney who’s legal acumen is off the charts! I’m very fortunate and thankful that I was able to have her represent me.
Posted by D | May 25, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Simply Fantastic!
I retained Mika's firm and I am so lucky that I found her! Mika is a clear communicator, a seasoned professional, and zealously advocated on my behalf to ensure that my case was resolved in the way I had hoped things would end. My only regret is that I did not find Mika's firm much earlier, as I would have benefited greatly from her guidance when I first realized I needed a lawyer. I strongly encourage you to schedule a consultation with Mika's firm if you're looking for affordable and competent representation.
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Posted by Cortney | May 11, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A shining light in my dark period
I had the opportunity to meet and work with Mika after a company I worked for termed me, based on what I believed was retaliation to a discrimination complaint I filed. Mika was exceptionally compassionate and patient with my situation. She explained in detail my options then talked me through the process. I am beyond thankful I had someone like Mika in my corner fighting against the corporate America giant tried to bully and push me around. Mika I am externally grateful for your support and assistance. I probably would have just given up on the process of not for your guidance and wisdom. Thank you Respectfully
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Posted by Chrystal | April 9, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional work!
Mika is amazing! She’s professional, respectful and transparent. The process was painless and quick! I was so fortunate for having her on my side I would definitely recommend her and her team any day.
Posted by Frankie | February 14, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Expert
I've dealt with a couple lawyers in the past and my faith in lawyers is non existent, I do not like them. Mika changed that. She did well on explaining the situation and what she planned on doing for my case in a realistic manner. I never had to call her to get updates on my case as she would keep me well informed along the way. Mika went against a big name in the world for me. She exceeded my expectations and I am happy with her work. Thanks Mika.
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Posted by Perkins | February 9, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
LOOK NO FURTHER !!!
Mika has represented me in two different cases, I couldn't be more satisfied with her years of experience & professionalism that she brings to the table. I was always kept informed on the progression of the cases, & ultimately in trusted Mika to get the best outcome as possible, which she did. Thanks Mika for everything.
Posted by anonymous | April 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mika Hilaire is a BOSS!
There are a handful of people in the industry of justice who see things through the periscope of action through compassion. Mika Hilaire is one. From the moment I spoke to her for the first time, I noticed she was incredibly knowledgeable, quick-witted, realistic, and wholesome. For me, stepping up to the podium and speaking up as a young woman in the music industry could have been daunting and catastrophic in various way, to both sides. Mika facilitated a life-changing outcome for me with poise, and success. Equally as important, she convinced one of the most prominent companies in the world to take educational, rather than issuing a termination, about quid quo pro sexual harassment under their own roof. She understood why it was important to me not to terminate, but to educate. She informed me of every point in progress professionally, yet every conversation we had over the phone felt like a motivational pep rally. I recommend Mika highly, for her expertise and her character. Thank you sooo much. <3
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Posted by Kelvin | January 30, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I hired the law firm of Hilaire&Mcgriff approximately two years ago to represent me in a race/ retaliation lawsuit against a previous employer. Mika and her colleagues displayed the utmost professionalism, and always kept me abreast of all the developments that were happening in my case. I was in awe of this law firm’s legal prowess, and how passionate they are about defending people/ plaintiffs who felt like, in my case, an adverse action was taking against them for making a legitimate complaint. I would definitely hire this law firm again, and I highly recommend this law firm to anyone seeking advice in employment law!
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Posted by Jay | November 17, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
There’s only one thing she’s missing ... a cape !!
Mika is a hero, seriously. If I wanted to end it at the first sentence it would honestly sum up my entire experience with her. I came to Avvo to thoroughly research attorneys for my employment case. I was very volatile and working in an environment engulfed in sexual harassment culture and race discrimination . I came across Mika’s profile after speaking to several attorneys before and upon initial contact I knew she was the one. Mika’s educational background, experience in law and overall demeanor are what one can only dream of finding in a professional. I’m really big on energy and Mika has a true kindred soul. She is full of personality and engagement!!! She is well versed and can communicate in many different mediums. That was something I really enjoyed about her. She understood where I came from and she made me feel comfortable in her space. The first day I met with her in a swanky Lil coffee shop near her office downtown, she took the time to understand and really hear my cries and woes about the hostility I was experiencing in my work place. I was able to open up to her very early on about things from my past that I felt would jeopardize my case. Mika allowed me to be transparent with her through and through without judgement or reservations. Her confidence is contagious. I knew Mika would fight for me because she took the time to embrace me as more than just another client. The entire time I worked with Mika I never felt like her client I really felt like a family member. It was easy to get to know Mika and it was clear that she impacts all her clients positively . Mika detailed what I’d expect from my employer and what she expected from me. At no point in time was I left in the dark about what was next or what to do and when to do it. Let me really break down how dedicated this woman was to my case ... I worked a grave yard shift at my job and anytime I felt weary or had a question Mika was UP at 2 in the morning texting me. This was often. She was not bothered. She found ways to get to me in her busy day. I would literally chat with Mika every other day and I spoke to her so frequent I found myself asking her for advice on parenting and career options. Mika had me believing I should follow in her footsteps and practice law too. I really admired her not only as my attorney but as someone to look up to. She became my hero. I was so appreciative of her efforts to see me thrive. Mika always knew what to do and say to ensure me she had the case secured. She never let me down. She fought hard for me to be removed out of that toxic environment and into a new position at a new facility, she fought to find me a therapist that would help me to manage the anxiety and crippling depression I was experiencing from the harassment at work , and she fought to bare the truth from all facets and in the end we were Victorious. Every time her or her husband David (see my review on David next. Super extraordinary!!! ) walked into those depositions it felt like I brought fire with me. I felt untouched. Mika was always 10 steps ahead of the opposing council and is the queen of courtroom rhetoric. Mika truly championed for my success. She was there every step of the way. From the time we sipped those lattes through the depositions and even after the check was cut. I am honored to have had an opportunity to work with her and her AMAZING STAFF (Jenifer is reeeeeallly on top of everything moving!! And see my review on Kipp too. He’s a remarkable attorney) I’m still laughing at the good times Mika and I shared after those deposition where she made it look like a breeze. Mika if you’re reading this THANK YOU, you helped change my family’s life. I have even referred two people to Mika whom are her current clients she’s THAT GOOD !! So there you have it. If you’re seeking someone that is going to advocate for you and get your the victory you deserve Mika and her team will definitely make it happen.
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Posted by anonymous | January 27, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A classy intelligent attorney for the ages and an honorable credit to her profession
I worked for a major insurance carrier for almost 23 years before I was wrongfully terminated after complaining to management about age and race discrimination that I endured. An attorney handling a class action case against my former employer recommended me to attorney Mika H. Mika agreed to meet with me to discuss the facts of my case. We met, she reviewed all of my documents and agreed to represent me. She explained in details how the legal proceedings work, everything from obtaining a right to sue letter, filing the suite, serving the suite, discovery, scheduling depositions and mediation. Mika Hilaire and her staff were absolutely amazing, her style and professionalism exemplify hard work with great results. My case was filed in April and settled by attorney Hilaire in December the same year. I knew that facing a major corporation would be difficult, but attorney Hilaire made sure that I was in good hands. She will always be a hero to me and my family.
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Posted by Sarah | July 22, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
What more can I say?
I rarely (and by rarely I mean THIS is my first review ever) take the time to write reviews, which is ironic because I depend so heavy on them. But I had to write this review because simply saying '"thank you" and "you're awesome, Mika" was not enough. I'll try to keep this short with hopes that I'm still able to make a potential client feel comfortable with his or her choice when it comes to Mika Hilaire. First of all, it is important to state that Mika was highly referred to me by another attorney/friend, at a point where I had all but given up on my situation. At the time I was introduced to Mika, I was mentally, emotionally and physically exhausted with my situation and my case. I had talked to a lot of potential attorneys but none made me feel as though they would make my case a priority and at that time, I needed to be a priority. I remember my first conversation with Mika and as I was at my emotional peak, she said to me "Don't worry. I got this." From then on, I put all my worries and trust in Mika and the rest is sweet history. Here's the kicker to this, she told me going in that she had a lot on her plate but she made it clear that I will not feel like an after thought or like I was forgotten. Can I tell you I never felt like I was being ignored or that she was not tending to my needs, ever? She was on it! I promised I would keep this short, so I will wrap up by highlighting a few things she did that I appreciated as a client. - she told me what to expect and assured me where we would land as a team. She totally managed my expectations. - She returned my calls, text and emails even when I knew she was going to be busy. - When I felt like giving in, she calmed me down and said... "Now is not the time. Let me do more work!" - She was FAIR! More than fair. - During my case, I felt like i had a family member fighting for me instead of an attorney. She made me feel like she cared! - She got it all done on a timely manner! Surely, this does not tell the complete story of my experience with Mika Hilaire. But I do pray that this review (my first review) helps someone move into the right direction and that is hiring Mika Hilaire to represent them!
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Posted by Carla | October 23, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
LEGAL GLADIATOR IN HIGH HEELS
I am deeply appreciative to Ms. Hilaire and her extraordinary law firm. I was subjected to wrongful termination after 25 years of full time service and in spite of bargaining unit representation. Consequently the realization came to be that I was on my own to advocate my protected employment rights. To my good fortune during the due diligence research process I discovered Ms. Hilaire's Law Firm. She is knowledgeable, personable, quick and trustworthy. On my behalf she established legal merits that resulted in a favorable settlement. My self-confidence has been restored which has allowed me to progress to a wholesome work/life balance. Should you be in need of superb legal representation contact the Hilaire McGriff Law Firm.
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Posted by Samantha | October 11, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent is an understatement....
Ms.Hilaire is one of thee best Lawyers thus far, she provided excellent customer service and handled my case very fast, 6 months to be exact. She is highly recommended, words can't describe how pleased with her services, I would most definitely use them again if needed. 5 stars isn't enough, Ms. Hilaire deserves 10....
Posted by Steve | July 15, 2015
California's premier employment attorney
In my opinion, Ms. Hilaire is California’s premier employment attorney. My case was daunting, time-consuming, and complex. I thought a positive result was untenable; she did not! She relentlessly pursued defending my position and bringing about justice. Because of her, my case ended positively, just as she thought it would. She is bright, knowledgeable, personable, and tenacious. These attributes make a great attorney. If it weren’t for her, I don’t think my case would have ended favorably. If you’re looking for a great employment attorney, search no more. Reach out to Ms. Hilaire. You will not regret it.
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Posted by anonymous | July 13, 2015
Superwoman!!
Mika was the best attorney in my horrific situation eith my employer. She is very professional and made me feel like I had a superhero on my side. My ex employer was a BIG organization that allowed horrible disriminitory practices to go on. Especially to me Mika quickly shut them down I can go on in life feeling vindicated. Hands down the BEST attorney to go up against the big guys.
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Cost

Rates
  • Contingency 33%-40%
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Founding Partner
  • Equal Rights Law Group
  • 2020 - Present
  • Managing Partner
  • Hilaire McGriff PC
  • 2013 - 2020
  • Partner and Chair of Employment Department
  • Freedman Weisz LLP
  • 2012 - 2013
  • Named Partner
  • Appell | Hilaire |Benardo LLP
  • 2004 - 2012
  • Associate Attorney
  • Silver & Freedman, Aplc
  • 2002 - 2004
  • Associate Attorney
  • Hill Farrer & Burrill, LLP
  • 2000 - 2002
View all work experience

Education

  • University of California, Hastings College of the Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2000
  • University of California - Berkeley
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1996

Associations

  • Los Angeles County Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Black Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles
  • Member
  • N/A
  • State Bar of California, Labor and Employment Law Section
  • Former Executive Committee Member
  • 2011 - 2013
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Southern California Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2020
  • Southern California Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2019
  • Super Lawyer - Rising Star
  • California Super Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Super Lawyer - Rising Star
  • California Super Lawyers
  • 2012
  • Super Lawyer - Rising Star
  • California Super Lawyers
  • 2011
  • Super Lawyer - Rising Star
  • California Super Lawyers
  • 2010
  • Super Lawyer - Rising Star
  • California Super Lawyers
  • 2009
  • Super Lawyer - Rising Star
  • California Super Lawyers
  • 2008
  • Super Lawyer - Rising Star
  • California Super Lawyers
  • 2007
View all awards

Publications

  • San Fernando Valley Business Journal
  • Mika Hilaire is featured on the cover of the San Fernando Valley Business Journal for Black Entrepreneurs Month
  • 2021

Speaking Engagements

  • Yearly Retreat - Black Women Lawyers Assocation of Los Angeles
  • Navigating Pregnancy Leave
  • 2014
  • Los Angleles County Bar Asociation, Employment Law Section Employment Symposium
  • Year in Review - Employment Law Update
  • 2014
  • Los Angeles County Bar Association, Labor and Employment Law Section, Labor Law Committee
  • Courtroom Advocacy: Arguing Discovery Motions
  • 2012
  • American Bar Association, Labor and Employment Law Section
  • Age Discrimination
  • 2012
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (4)
Given (1)
Endorse Mika
Employment and labor Attorney | Sep 01
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I was previously law partners with Mika Hilaire, and I have the benefit of continuing to work on cases together with Mika. In my experience, Mika is a truly talented and very knowledgeable attorney, who aggressively represents her clients."
Discrimination Attorney | Aug 19
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Mika is a fierce and dedicated defender of her clients rights and has always searching for the best possible outcome. Working with her has always been a pleasure."
Employment and labor Attorney | Aug 03
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have had the pleasure of working with Mika on several cases. I am consistently impressed with her performance on matters and her zealous advocacy on behalf of her clients."
Employment and labor Attorney | Apr 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Employment and labor