Vince Winters is a seasoned Workers’ Compensation defense attorney with more than 24 years of experience.
Emily Keliher graduated from University of California- Davis with a B.S. in neurobiology, physiology, & behavioral studies. After a gap year, Emily decided to go to law school, graduating with honors from Santa Clara University School of Law in the Tech Edge program.
During law school, she was able to gain experience in Santa Clara County’s Superior Court, the US Patent and Trademark Office, and in-house as legal counsel to a research and development company. At the Law Offices of Stacey L. Tokunaga, Emily is passionate about starting her career and building litigation skills.
In her free time, she enjoys reading, crafting, and running with friends.
Vince Winters is a seasoned Workers’ Compensation defense attorney with more than 24 years of experience representing employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators throughout California. Over the course of his career, he has tried more than 70 Workers’ Compensation cases, taken over 500 applicant depositions, and conducted more than 60 physician cross-examinations. He also has extensive experience handling and defending claims involving CIGA.
Mr. Winters’ depth of litigation experience across all aspects of Workers’ Compensation enables him to develop practical, strategic solutions tailored to each claim. He is committed to providing responsive client service, timely communication, and proactive case management to achieve efficient and cost-effective results.
James has been an integral part of the firm for more than three decades. He began his career with the firm as a law clerk in 1994 while attending law school and, after being admitted to the California Bar in 1996, continued with the firm as an Associate Attorney. His longstanding commitment to the firm reflects his dedication to both his clients and the practice of workers’ compensation law.
With over 30 years of experience, James represents employers and insurance carriers in all aspects of California workers’ compensation defense. His practice encompasses the full range of workers’ compensation matters, from routine claims to complex litigation, and he is known for his proactive approach to file management, strategic case handling, and extensive knowledge of California workers’ compensation law.
James primarily represents clients in the parking and construction industries, with a particular emphasis on defending construction-related workers’ compensation claims. His deep understanding of the unique challenges facing construction employers allows him to develop practical, effective strategies that minimize exposure while achieving favorable outcomes for his clients.
Clients value James for his responsiveness, thorough preparation, and practical legal guidance. His decades of experience, combined with his commitment to proactive claims management, have earned him the trust of clients who rely on him to navigate even the most complex workers’ compensation matters.
Miguel is a seasoned Workers’ Compensation attorney with over a decade of experience navigating the California Workers’ Compensation system.
Miguel began his Workers’ Compensation career in 2011 and has handled cases throughout California, appearing at WCABs statewide. He has developed extensive experience in both applicant and defense work, giving him a uniquely well-rounded perspective. His background includes restructuring and managing a full Workers’ Compensation department, representing injured workers and employers, and litigating hundreds of cases from inception through settlement or trial.
Miguel has served in the Board of Directors for the Orange County Hispanic Bar Association since 2024.
Outside of his professional work and board service, Miguel enjoys hiking, camping, and traveling with his family throughout the United States and Baja California. Miguel is fluent in Spanish and takes great pride in serving, supporting and building meaningful connections within his community on both sides of the border.
Daniel Higuera received his California State Bar license in January of 2024. Daniel attended his undergraduate studies at Loyola Marymount University, where he received two bachelors of the arts degrees in Political Science and Economics. He then gained his Juris Doctor through attending the University of Oregon School of Law.
Throughout this time, Daniel gained a variety of professional experiences highlighted by a stint working in the University of Oregon Athletic Compliance Department. Daniel takes his prior experiences, as well as his academic studies, to build from and grow as an attorney to suit the needs of his clients.
Daniel defends employers and insurance carriers in all stages of workers’ compensation claims litigation encompassing detailed case analysis, cost-effective resolution strategies, and advocacy before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board. Specifically, he specializes in Sports Workers’ Compensation and pre-2013 claims.
In his personal time, he enjoys sports, food, and a diverse variety of entertainment.
I am an experienced Hearing Representative specializing in the defense of employers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators in California workers’ compensation matters. With a strong command of the Labor Code and WCAB procedures, I provide skilled representation at hearings and conferences across the state.
Throughout my career, I have developed a reputation for thorough case preparation, effective negotiation, and a strategic, defense-focused approach that prioritizes cost containment and timely resolution. I work closely with claims examiners as well as employers to evaluate exposure, assess settlement potential, and ensure compliance with procedural and evidentiary requirements.
Known for my professionalism and reliability in the courtroom, I consistently deliver detailed case analysis, persuasive advocacy, and strong communication with all parties involved. From discovery and witness coordination to settlement conferences and lien resolution, I ensure that every case is advanced efficiently and in the best interest of the defense.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with husband, family, and friends. I enjoy watching and supporting women sports or sports in general and unwinding with my pets (dogs: Thor & Watson, cats: Loki and Callie) and a good book. I am passionate about music, love to explore new restaurants, and have a soft spot for travel as well as a good conversation. My down-to-earth approach and sense of humor make me not only a strong advocate in the courtroom, but also a genuine person to work with.
Tom Jarboe brings more than 25 years of legal knowledge and experience to his workers’ compensation practice. His legal career began in 2001 in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps, where he served as a paralegal noncommissioned officer with assignments across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. While attending law school, Tom honorably separated from military service but continued serving veterans through the TJSL Veterans Clinic.
After law school, Tom practiced in civil litigation and military law. His civil practice focused primarily on business and partnership disputes and real property litigation, with experience working on behalf of both plaintiffs and defendants. That experience gave him an appreciation for the differing needs and perspectives of individual and institutional clients.
Tom’s military law practice included working with service members facing matters under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, veterans seeking upgrades and corrections to their military discharge records, and defense-contractor personnel navigating security clearance matters before the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals. His continued work with veterans allowed him to combine his military background with legal advocacy on behalf of those confronting the lasting consequences of military administrative and disciplinary actions.
Tom ultimately transitioned to workers’ compensation, where he draws upon his diverse legal background, military experience, and advocacy skills to develop practical solutions to complex legal problems.
Jan is a Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law with more than 30 years of experience representing employers and insurance carriers in all aspects of California workers’ compensation defense. Throughout his career, he has developed extensive trial experience and a comprehensive understanding of the workers’ compensation system, successfully handling matters from inception through resolution.
His practice encompasses the full spectrum of workers’ compensation litigation, including depositions, petitions for reconsideration and removal, Labor Code section 132a discrimination claims, and serious and willful misconduct matters. In addition to his workers’ compensation practice, Jan serves on an arbitration panel, where he presides over and resolves employer disputes, further demonstrating his depth of experience and respected standing within the legal community.
Shrey is a Master of Laws graduate from Texas A&M University School of laws. He has passed the California Bar in July 2024 and is pending admittance to the California Bar as an attorney. He is a good communicator and has an eye for detail. He has experience settling cases as a volunteer mediator as well. His curiosity and sincerity to growth makes him an asset at Law Offices of Stacey Tokunaga. Shrey is currently working as a hearing representative in Workers’ Compensation Defense. He deeply regards the defense side and looks forward to serving his client’s needs in the best way possible.
Besides work, Shrey enjoys creating inner-improvement YouTube videos and loves singing and dancing.
Alexandria Alvarez is a dedicated legal advocate who brings analytical precision and creative insight to her practice. She earned her Juris Doctor from Western State College of Law in 2024 after completing her undergraduate studies at the University of California, San Diego, where she received a B.A. in Comparative Politics and a minor in Studio Art. Her legal background spans estate planning, corporate law, and civil litigation. She is now focused on Workers’ Compensation defense, where she brings her analytical skillset, litigation experience, and client-first approach to representing her clients by navigating complex claims and protecting client interests.
Prior to passing the California Bar Exam, Alexandria ran a successful online business selling custom art to clients across all 50 states and in over 40 countries. Her artwork has been featured in local galleries, reflecting her deep appreciation for creativity and detail. In 2019, she was honored by Congressman Lou Correa with the “Woman of the Year” award, recognizing her contributions to community engagement and entrepreneurship.
Outside the office, Alexandria enjoys volunteering, painting, sewing, and spending time with her beloved pets. Her multifaceted background and creative mindset enhances her ability to inform her approach to legal advocacy, making her a dynamic legal advocate.
Craig Morrison graduated from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, in 1990 with a dual major including a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Studies. He then earned his Master of Arts in Education from Pepperdine in 1991, graduating as Valedictorian of his class.
Following his studies, Mr. Morrison lived for a year each in Germany and Japan. In Japan, he taught English and computer skills to children ranging from 2 to 12 years old.
He received his Juris Doctor from Lincoln Law School in Sacramento in 1999. Prior to becoming an attorney, Mr. Morrison worked for five years as a claims adjuster, case manager, and paralegal before practicing insurance defense as a civil defense attorney. For over two and a half decades, he has focused his practice on Workers’ Compensation law in California and is certified as a Workers’ Compensation Specialist by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. His expertise lies in handling intricate and complex litigation, and he has conducted nearly 2,000 depositions and over 200 workers’ compensation trials throughout California.
Rick Nehora graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, as well as Santa Clara University School of Law. During law school, Rick clerked with the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara. He is presently licensed in both California and Arizona and practices before State and Federal Courts. Rick is a Super Lawyers Rising Star recipient (2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020) and a National Trial Lawyers – Top 40 Under 40 recipient.
Rick has also undergone American Board of Trial Advocacy’s College of Trial Advocacy 2015, as well as CLM Litigation Management Institute 2016. Rick has tried, arbitrated and mediated numerous cases for both plaintiffs and defendants. Prior to entering private practice, Rick represented large corporations and individuals at a national law firm and previously specialized in the representation of financial institutions such as Bank of America, Citi Bank, J.P. Morgan Chase and Wells Fargo, among others. Rick is now the Managing Attorney of the Civil Department at the Law Offices of Stacey L. Tokunaga and dedicated to providing aggressive representation to his clients in all matters relating to civil defense, general liability, and subrogation.
Peter is a graduate of Syracuse University having earned his BA in Spanish Language, Literature and Culture. After a number of years adjusting workers’ compensation claims, Peter returned to school, earning his Juris Doctorate at Brooklyn Law School.
As a workers’ compensation adjuster, Peter honed his skills as a negotiator and quickly became a top settler of cases at Republic Indemnity. Inspired by his own defense counsel, Peter returned to scholarly pursuits and earned his JD, and thereafter enjoyed working as a Deputy City Attorney, house counsel, as well as an applicant attorney. After over two decades serving clients with their legal issues, Peter was introduced to Mamie’s Pies, selling over 1,000,000 pies on QVC. However, with comp in his blood Peter returned to workers’ compensation defense.
Peter has been happily married to his college sweetheart for over thirty years. They have two children, Hannah, a PhD. candidate and James, a college senior. Peter loves the Bay Area and Lake Tahoe, is involved in various philanthropic interests, loves to read, sail and travel and has been practicing Pilates for seven years.
Mr. Hodgson joined our Northern California office. His work focuses on defending employers, insurance carriers and third-party administrators in their workers’ compensation claims. My ethos has always been that good working relationships, through clear communication, leads to better outcomes. Good relationships with claims professionals, judges, employers and opposing counsel is critical to closing claims, Mr. Hodgson has been assisting clients achieve their goals since 2014. Mr. Hodgson grew up in Redding and currently lives in both Sacramento and Santa Cruz and thus handles all northern California venues—from Redding to Salinas.
Mr. Hodgson began practicing in workers’ compensation as a lien specialist when the reforms of SB 863 were implemented. Mr. Hodgson has given lectures on a variety of workers’ compensation topics and case law updates—including how to think like a lawyers, how to attack liens, utilization review, the Panel QME process, medical treatment issues in complex claims, permanent disability, apportionment and denied claim closure strategies.
He is a private pilot, an avid golfer, disc golfer and enjoys playing legos with his kids. When not in the office, he can be found exploring the surf breaks of California and getting lost in the redwoods.
Michelle Hunter is an Associate Attorney at the Law Offices of Stacey L. Tokunaga who graduated from Loyola Law School in 2021 and was a member of the Women’s Law Association. In law school, Michelle explored multiple types of law to develop a diverse legal background that has led her to a developing passion for worker’s compensation law.
Michelle has previously been recognized in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch since 2023 for her work in Plaintiff’s Personal Injury Litigation.
When she is not working, Michelle enjoys staying active, exploring new food spots, and watching horror films.
Since 1997 started career in workers’ compensation arena. I started my career working at GAB Robins in the Special Investigations Unit defending clients against potential fraud.
In 2005, started working as a Lien Specialist / Hearing Representative in Southern California diligently focused on the defense of workers’ compensation claims and specialize in case management, settlements, and attending hearings. Appeared at WCAB venues throughout California for lien conferences and lien trials where I have obtained successful outcomes for clients. My goal is to resolve cases quickly!
In my free time, I enjoy boating in Lake Havasu with friends, family, children and grandchildren. We spent many summers with our children on the lake and now enjoying the grandchildren experiencing “lake life”.
Education:
Southern California College of Business & Law
Paralegal degree – 1995
Originally educated in Durango, Mexico, Jorge began his career with six years of litigation experience. Seeking broader horizons, in the year 2020 he relocated to California, where he gained experience in diverse practice areas including Civil, Immigration, and Workers Compensation.
In 2023, Jorge reached a pivotal milestone in his educational journey by graduating with high honors from Loyola Law School and earning an LLM degree.
Currently, Jorge serves as an Associate Attorney at the Law Offices of Stacey L. Tokunaga, focusing on Workers’ Compensation. Driven by his strong sense of justice and client advocacy, Jorge aims to make a positive impact in the legal community.
Naomi is a newly licensed attorney, joining the State Bar in January 2021. Naomi attended California State University, Long Beach where she received her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a minor in Communications. After taking a year off, she attended law school at Chapman University while working part-time as a Starbucks barista. Naomi is an eager attorney excited to gain more experience and provide the best outcome for her clients. In her free time, Naomi enjoys watching basketball, playing with her dogs, and learning new recipes.
Cecilia utilizes her experience in litigation and skill in alternative dispute resolution to not only avidly advocate on behalf of her clients, but also balance the importance of cost-effective resolutions.
In law school, Cecilia focused on skillfully mastering subjects such as contract drafting, negotiations, workers’ compensation, and employment law. She also competed on the UO Law’s Moot Court team and tied second at the 2020-2021 ABA Mediation Competition.
Aside from work, Cecilia enjoys traveling, binge watching TV shows, and trying new food spots.
Servicing all Southern California Venues from Bakersfield down.
Education:
Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, California
Juris Doctorate, 1985
Admitted to California State Bar, 1986
Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
Masters in Education (Counseling Psychology), 1977
University of California, Santa Barbara, California
Bachelor of Arts – Psychology
About Jim:
Since 1999, Jim has practiced exclusively in the defense of employers and insurance carriers before the WCAB. He graduated from UC Santa Barbara with an emphasis in psychology and at Duke University he obtained a graduate degree in Counseling Psychology. His background in civil litigation and complex subrogation matters provides a foundation of experience and knowledge to deal with many cross-over issues in Workers’ Compensation defense.
Jim is a musician and ardent animal lover who likes taking his dogs to the park. In his off time, he enjoys poker, golf and basketball, especially the Lakers.
Servicing all Southern California Venues from Bakersfield down.
Education:
Pacific Coast University, Long Beach, California
Juris Doctor, 1994
Stacey owns a successful law firm. She has been a Defense Attorney for 3 decades. Well-versed in the California Workers’ Compensation System, she continually keeps abreast of the changes that evolve from year to year. A skillful researcher, strategist, litigator, and negotiator, she believes that creating an environment of trust and respect between all parties is the foundation to ensure the successful resolution of cases in an amiable manner. For relaxation, Stacey enjoys: TV mysteries such as “NCIS”, “Bones”, and “Sherlock Holmes” ; casual dining with friends and family.
