Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani is proud to announce that Debra Ellwood Meppen, National Chair of the firm’s Employment practice, and Mercedes Colwin, Founding Partner of the firm’s New York City office, have once again been named to the prestigious Lawdragon 500 Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers guide for 2027. Their inclusion highlights the exceptional work they continue to provide in corporate employment law from coast to coast.
On the West Coast, Meppen has been recognized as an entertainment industry powerhouse for her successful work resolving complex and sensitive litigation matters. Often described as a “dragon slayer” for her ability to aggressively resolve even the most challenging cases, Meppen has developed a reputation as a formidable negotiator, skillfully protecting her high-profile clients. Her leadership within the firm extends beyond the courtroom, where, in addition to her roles as National Chair of the firm’s Employment practice and Co-Managing Partner of GRSM’s Ventura County office, she serves as GRSM’s Women’s Initiative Chair, championing the advancement of women in law and leadership.
On the East Coast, Colwin continues to earn recognition for her vast experience across various litigation areas, including employment law, commercial litigation, and class actions. Having achieved a success rate of more than 90% in trials and arbitrations, Colwin is renowned for her relentless advocacy and outstanding legal acumen. In addition to her legal achievements, she has been recognized by Forbes Business American Airlines as one of the six most influential women in America. She has also received the Graciela Olivarez Award from Notre Dame Law School, an honor shared with Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. Widely regarded as a top national legal analyst, she regularly appears on television to discuss critical legal issues affecting the nation.
The Lawdragon 500 Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers guide recognizes the top attorneys focusing their practice on employment litigation, discrimination, wage and hour disputes, and trade secret defense, among other key areas.
The firm celebrates these outstanding “law dragons” from both coasts and their continued commitment to delivering exceptional results for GRSM’s clients.
Read the full 2027 Lawdragon 500 Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers guide.