Our Story
Joining Forces
Erin M. Wintersteen and Angel Casarez are experienced litigators who joined forces in order to provide their clients with a superior legal practice and promote a culture of inclusion and diversity. Together, the two provide over 30 years of workers’ compensation defense experience.
Ms. Wintersteen and Ms. Casarez have worked together since 2010, both in a co-manager capacity at a large nationwide defense firm, and then later in an attorney-client capacity.
Together, these women decided to start a women-owned, majority-minority-owned, operated and controlled law firm. They believe that representation matters in leadership. Although women and minorities are now more represented in law schools, law firms and managing roles, there remains a ceiling when it comes to partnership or ownership. (Per the 2019 National Association of Women Lawyers study, women make up 20% of all equity partners and minorities account for only 9% of all equity partners). WC Law Corporation wants to break down these barriers.
Erin M. Wintersteen, Founder
Ms. Wintersteen has worked as a defense attorney in workers’ compensation for over 18 years, working with a variety of insurance companies, large employers, small employers, brokers and collaborators. Her prior experience at other law firms means that she has seen what does work and what doesn’t work. Bringing that knowledge to the table, she has helped craft the perfect business model and environment so that WC Law Corp clients will get the most responsive, cutting-edge and functional “bang” for their already taxed “buck.”
Angel Casarez, Founder
Ms. Casarez has worked as a defense attorney in workers’ compensation for over 18 years. She has had prior experience managing attorneys in the Bay Area for a large-size defense firm, and then spent five years working for a national multi-office large self-insured employer. As litigation manager for this company, she helped to implement policies designed to keep a team of 30 defense attorneys on task and creating a program where they would report to her and ensure budgetary needs of the company remained the main focus. Coming from that background, she understands what insurance companies and employers are looking for in picking their legal team and has creative ideas on how to keep the bottom line as the focus.
Richelle Contreras, Firm Administrator
Ms. Contreras is the Firm Administrator for WC Law Corp. She is responsible for managing the firm’s operating and information systems and ensuring the security of the firm’s data management. Previously, she served as an Information Manager and Paralegal (Military Justice and Defense) in the Air Force for more than 12 years. She is a veteran of Operation Enduring and Iraqi Freedom. Prior to that, she was the Tax Manager for 4 years and as a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) for 6 years. After separating from the military, she worked as a Federal Employee for the Air Force for almost 8 years as a Discharge Clerk, Court Reporter, Legal Assistant and Victim-Witness Assistance Program Coordinator. She was also a certified California Notary.
Nichole Gauthier, Firm Director
Ms. Gauthier serves as the Firm Director of WC Law Corp. She has over 20 years’ experience working as an office manager for a nationwide workers’ compensation defense firm. Her ability to streamline workflows and keep everything running smoothly and efficiently is top notch and the reason why she was asked to join in on this venture.
Sarah Geivett, Human Resources Director
Ms. Geivett has worked in the workers’ compensation industry for over 20 years in various positions. She has held several different leadership roles in the claims department and in human resources while at a third-party administrator. She has a proven track record of leadership, creativity, team building, training and staff development. As the HR Director, she will focus on developing the firm’s strategies and implement human resources programs.
Vanessa Camacho, Marketing & Events Coordinator
Ms. Camacho currently serves as the firm’s Marketing and Events Coordinator. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for creating memorable experiences, she excels in planning and executing events that leave a lasting impact. Her strategic thinking and creativity converge to ensure that every aspect aligns seamlessly with WC Law Corp’s goals and vision. From inception to execution, her commitment to excellence shines through, resulting in events that not only meet but exceed expectations. Ms. Camacho’s dedication to her role goes beyond her job description – she is a true advocate for collaboration and innovation. As Marketing and Events Coordinator, she also orchestrates opportunities for individuals to come together, learn, and forge connections that transcend the office walls.
Camren Butler, Branding Coordinator
Mr. Butler is the firm’s Brand Coordinator. He is responsible for contributing to marketing projects, developing a brand strategy, creating content for online brand presence, scheduling communications, and evaluating the progress of company initiatives associated with branding and messaging. With a passion for creating unforgettable experiences and a proven track record in the realms of hospitality, event planning, and marketing, he is a versatile professional dedicated to turning ideas into reality.