Biography

Ms. Morales is an experienced litigator whose current practice focuses on the resolution of complex construction-related disputes, contract disputes, product liability and defense of common interest communities. Her approach to all client matters is rooted in her desire to ensure each client’s goals are met in a manner that is both efficient and cost-effective.

In addition to business consulting for developers and contractors on ongoing and new projects, Norma handles cases involving HOA liability, product liability, contract disputes, shoring, subsurface site conditions, lateral and subjacent support, construction and premises liability.

She takes pride in thoroughly understanding each client’s business needs and all elements of the particular matter at hand. Norma diligently works to resolve each case as efficiently as possible or to develop customized defenses in order to mitigate exposure for her clients.

Her successful work on behalf of her clients includes striking indemnity provisions, obtaining a complete defense by prevailing on a motion for summary judgment in a dispute involving a foreign jurisdiction, and thereafter obtaining an award for attorney’s fees and costs. She has also worked with local and Fortune 500 companies in matters involving single-family homes, condominiums and high-rise buildings.

Additionally, Norma has resolved a multitude of claims prior to the inception of litigation, obtained a defense verdict in a civil arbitration involving a boom truck transporting logs, and settlement of multi-million-dollar claims, inclusive of releases from primary and additional insurer carriers. Her civil litigation practice has also included personal injury claims, premise liability, contract disputes, property, products liability and environmental torts.

Norma began her legal career as a prosecutor with the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office.  Her previous experience also includes serving as clerk in the office of the U.S. Attorney and the Department of Water Resources.

Prior to earning her law degree, Norma was the spokesperson for various landowners in Monterey County with respect to pre-1914 water rights and allocations before local, county and state government forums.  She earned her Juris Doctor from University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, and Norma also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Berkeley.

Norma’s professional memberships and affiliations include the California State Bar, the San Diego County Bar Association, San Diego Defense Lawyers, and the Claims and Litigation Management Alliance.