James Irwin Bourbeau

James Bourbeau is an Associate Attorney who joined the Law Office of Williams & Associates, PC, after working for the California Employment Development Department (EDD) for six years.

While at the EDD, Jim handled cases with tax assessments ranging from a few thousand into the millions of dollars and regularly appeared at hearings before the California Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board (CUIAB). He also negotiated settlements on many cases and advised the EDD on legislation and regulations affecting both the EDD and the employers of California. Jim also created the EDD's electronic discovery and electronic communications policies. His diligent work resulted in receiving the Director's Service Award for his work in the EDD Legal Office.

Jim's experience with the EDD allows him to fully understand the concerns California employers face during tax audits and petitions. Jim primarily handles employment tax matters representing business owners in audits and appeals concerning worker classification issues affecting employees and independent contractors, unemployment insurance rate manipulation and shareholder wages. He also assists clients with penalty abatement requests, in settlement negotiations and with claims for refund. Additionally, Jim advises business owners and assists employers with business planning issues that relate to employment taxation. He reviews current processes and recommends improvements such as preparing independent contractor agreements in compliance with California's tax laws.

Jim also represents clients in the area of employment and labor law matters, such as the defense of wage and hour claims by both governmental agencies and plaintiffs.

Prior to working for the EDD, Jim analyzed and drafted legislation for the Governor's Office and worked in the State Senate. Before practicing law, Jim had diverse careers in the construction trades and the arts and music fields.

Jim earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law and earned his Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts from California State University, Sacramento where he graduated summa cum laude.