LOS ANGELES – August 27, 2026 – Ogletree Deakins, one of the largest labor and employment law firms representing management, is pleased to welcome Alexander “A.J.” Harwin to the firm’s Los Angeles office as a shareholder. Harwin joins the firm from FordHarrison LLP, where he was a partner.
Harwin focuses his practice on all aspects of labor and employment litigation. For more than 20 years, he has represented employers in matters involving discrimination, harassment, defamation, wage-and-hour disputes, contractual obligations, privacy, and more. Harwin partners with employers to navigate complex legal challenges, develop practical strategies, and mitigate risk. When litigation is necessary, he manages all phases of the process, from deposition to pre-trial motions and through arbitration and trial.
“A.J. brings more than two decades of experience representing employers in complex employment litigation across California,” said Jack Sholkoff, office managing shareholder in Los Angeles. “His depth of experience, strategic approach to risk management, and ability to guide clients through high-stakes disputes make him an excellent addition to our Los Angeles office and our rapidly expanding litigation practice.”
Harwin regularly writes dispositive motions, manages all aspects of discovery, conducts investigations, interviews witnesses, and develops strategies to achieve success in deposition and trial. He also negotiates settlements, provides representation in mediation, and handles other alternative dispute resolutions.
“Ogletree Deakins has one of the strongest labor and employment litigation practices in the country, and they can meet my clients’ needs on a local, national, and international level,” said Harwin. “I was drawn to the firm’s collegial, collaborative culture and the strong wage and hour class action and PAGA practice, and I’ve been blown away by the firm’s resources.”
Harwin earned his JD from Loyola Law School and his BA from the University of California, Los Angeles. As a regular public speaker, he has delivered legal seminars and training at some of California’s most prominent venues and events, including Comic-Con and the Hollywood Bowl.
Harwin’s arrival reflects Ogletree Deakins’ continued strategic growth. The firm has added 20 shareholders this year, including seven this month, as client demand for labor and employment counsel continues to increase across key markets and practice areas.
About Ogletree Deakins
With more than 1,100 attorneys in 60 offices worldwide, Ogletree Deakins is one of the largest labor and employment law firms representing management. We handle all types of employment-related legal matters, including traditional labor and employment, workplace safety, employee benefits, and business immigration matters. Guided by our Client Pledge, we focus on understanding clients’ business and objectives, collaborating and anticipating needs, harnessing technology and innovation, communicating effectively, and providing quality representation with exceptional value. www.ogletree.com