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this pageManagers and Departments
Our managers ensure that each department runs smoothly and efficiently, and meets established goals. They oversee long–range projects as well as daily tasks, often filling multiple roles as coaches, mentors, and directors. They also provide support for our attorneys, helping them better serve our clients. We are proud of all that our managers accomplish, and invite you to read about their challenges and achievements below.
Marion R. DeCarlo, Manager, Workers’ Compensation Department
The manager of the Workers’ Compensation Department, Marion R. DeCarlo, has sixteen years of legal experience, including twelve years with Brayton Purcell. Prior to starting her legal career, Ms. DeCarlo was a partner in a construction company in Northern California that specialized in commercial renovations. She has worked for several major financial institutions in real estate development and appraisal and was active in real estate sales.
Ms. DeCarlo is responsible for overseeing the day to day operations of the Workers’ Compensation Department. She is also a hearing representative who makes appearances for our clients before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board.
Brayton Purcell represents workers who suffer from employment–related injuries or diseases. These include victims of asbestos and beryllium exposure, construction accidents, and repetitive stress injuries. We have helped hundreds of injured workers and their families obtain workers’ compensation benefits. The Workers’ Compensation Department aids clients in receiving monetary benefits, medical treatment, and vocational rehabilitation. It also works to obtain death benefits for dependents of deceased workers.
Donna Peters, Manager, Settlement Department
Donna Peters has been with Brayton Purcell since 1984. She started out as a temporary receptionist, stayed on as a clerk processing settlement documents, and was promoted to Manager of the Settlement Department as the firm rapidly grew. She is a graduate of California Lutheran University with a bachelor’s degree in History.
The Settlement Department currently consists of 12 employees. They are responsible for preparing the appropriate closing documents for every settlement offer that is made and forwarding to our clients for approval. They also have the task of mailing all settlement checks out to our clients. Prior to settlement negotiations, the Department is also responsible for gathering the appropriate data and materials about cases to assure that those taking part in settlement negotiations have all the facts and information they need.
The Settlement Department receives numerous telephone calls each day. They are the primary contact for many of our clients, providing updates on the status of negotiated settlements. With the exception of her first couple of months with the firm, Ms. Peters has spent her entire career with Brayton Purcell working with Settlements. She enjoys being part of a great team of people serving our clients.
Jerry Peters, Manager, Properties and Facilities
Jerry Peters has been the manager of the Properties and Facilities Department at Brayton Purcell for 12 years. Previously, he spent five years in small business marketing and consulting, and 19 years in the airline industry as a manager. He obtained his BA and MBA from San Francisco State University.
The purpose of the Properties and Facilities Department is to “provide safety, comfort, material, transportation and building facilities support for our staff in an efficient, effective and professional manner,” Mr. Peters comments. Its functions include security, purchasing, transportation, buildings, and landscaping maintenance. The Department is responsible for all systems and equipment except computers and computer–related equipment.
Christina C. Skubic, Manager, Bankruptcy Department
Christina C. Skubic graduated from Sonoma State University and McGeorge School of Law. Admitted to practice law in the state of California, Ms. Skubic works at Brayton Purcell as an associate attorney and also heads its Bankruptcy Department.
The Bankruptcy Department files claims for our clients against asbestos defendants that are under the protection of bankruptcy courts. It also pursues claims against companies that have emerged from bankruptcy and established trusts to pay out asbestos–related injury claims.
The Department has been instrumental in streamlining our claims processing procedures and working with the various bankruptcy trusts. Staff members diligently file claims, address deficiencies, review and process offers, and maintain positive working relationships.
Nancy Williams, Manager, Probate Department
Nancy Williams earned a B.A. in English from the University of Iowa. She then attended the University of San Francisco, where she earned her J.D. After becoming a member of the California Bar in 1999, Ms. Williams began work as an associate at Brayton Purcell.
Ms. Williams later became our Probate Manager. She oversees the department that assists with the filing and releasing of litigation proceeds for all wrongful death cases. Along with her own duties as manager of the Probate Department, Ms. Williams also helps with the management of attorney resources.