Sara Alexis Levine Abarbanel
Associate
Sara Abarbanel represents companies in litigation in wage and hour matters as well as discrimination, harassment, and retaliation claims. She advises clients regarding policy and litigation and also advises companies regarding compliance with California labor and employment laws. Working with a broad array of clients across all industries, Sara has diverse experience with litigation in both state and federal courts.
She is a member of the Labor & Employment Practice Group and the Innovative Technology Sector.
Prior to joining Foley, Sara worked in the California Attorney General’s Executive Office and the California Governor’s Office of Legal Affairs. Before attending law school, Sara worked with the Stanford Criminal Justice Center on research relating to California Public Safety Realignment.
Awards and Recognition
- Received, Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch recognition for Commercial Litigation (2024)
Pro Bono
- Devoted to pro bono work, including First Amendment issues and family court matters.
Presentations and Publications
- Co-authored, “Realigning the Revolving Door: An Analysis of California Counties’ AB 109 2011-2012 Implementation Plans,” Stanford Criminal Justice Center (2013).
- Co-authored, “Reallocation of Responsibility: Changes to the Correctional System in California Post-Realignment,” SSRN, (2014).
- Contributor to, “Voices from the Field: How California Stakeholders View Public Safety Realignment,” SSRN, (2014).
Sara Abarbanel and Jacqueline Hayduk Assess Best Practices for Employee Assistance Programs
Foley Secures Landmark Victory for Pro Bono Client in Federal and State Cases
California Supreme Court Affirms Single Comment Can Constitute Harassment and Addresses Standard for Retaliation
California Supreme Court Upholds App-Based Driver Worker Classification Statute
DOL Increases Compensation Threshold for Exempt Employees