Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP partner Erika Contreras has been named to the Daily Journal’s 2025 list of Top Women Lawyers. The annual list recognizes and honors the best 100 women lawyers practicing in the state of California.
In the Daily Journal profile featuring Ms. Contreras, the 16-year attorney says she was drawn to personal injury law because it provided an opportunity to make a difference. Her approach centers on providing guidance to her clients during challenging times and this perspective frames her practice.
“At the end of the case, you can truly say you changed someone’s life for the better and they are in a better position because they met you. It is truly a privilege to represent your clients,” said Ms. Contreras to the Daily Journal.
The publication features Ms. Contreras on the cover and highlights a recent $5 million settlement she obtained for survivors after three family members were killed in a collision with a drunk driver. The case presented substancial challenges, including the defense’s attempt to minimize plaintiff’s damages by claiming the defendant driver was off-duty when the collision occurred.
“By taking various depositions and conducting a thorough investigation, we were able to trace the driver’s actions back to the employer defendant and prove vicarious liability,” Ms. Contreras said.
To read the full article featuring Ms. Contreras, login here to Daily Journal.