Maria represents employers in complex employment litigation and provides strategic counsel across the full spectrum of labor and employment matters. Her practice includes defending companies against claims of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and wrongful termination, with a focus on matters involving executives and other high-stakes claims.
Maria has developed a strong reputation for her work and expertise in matters involving restrictive covenants. She regularly leads litigation to uphold non-compete, non-solicitation, and confidentiality agreements, helping employers safeguard trade secrets and proprietary business information. Likewise, she counsels employers on the contours around hiring employees with restrictive covenants and leads their defense in litigation with new hires’ former employers, helping protect her clients’ ability to hire the best workforce. Maria’s experience spans state and federal courts across the nation, as well as proceedings before administrative agencies such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Texas Workforce Commission.
In addition to her litigation practice, Maria advises clients throughout the employment lifecycle—from hiring and onboarding to discipline and separation. She works closely with employers to develop and refine workplace policies, employee handbooks, and training programs. Maria also drafts and negotiates employment agreements and separation packages tailored to business needs and legal compliance.
Maria’s practical, solutions-oriented approach supports employers in navigating sensitive workforce issues with confidence and clarity.
Prior to joining VKHH, Maria was a senior-level associate at a major global law firm.
