Jessica E. Ehrlich

With more than a decade of experience advising on public works’ projects, Jessica Ehrlich guides K-12 school districts, community college districts and courts throughout California in transactions and litigation, procurements and purchases, construction and facilities, property acquisitions and sales and land use and environmental matters. She also helps districts implement funding and support bond programs for the construction and modernization of school facilities. With unique knowledge and experience in the areas of buildings and bonds, she lightheartedly characterizes her practice as “dirt and money.”

Jessica enjoys working with clients on their construction and renovation programs, particularly when she’s involved in the creation of a new structure from the concept to the ribbon-cutting ceremony for a tangible, completed project. In addition to educational entities, Jessica works with the Judicial Council of California on courthouse projects throughout the state of California. Playing a role in creating something that enhances people’s lives—such as a new courthouse, science center, classroom facility or athletics complex—gives her a great sense of accomplishment. Jessica’s also honored to act as a dedicated steward who helps ensure taxpayer dollars are used as wisely as possible. As co-chair of the firm’s Higher Education Practice Group, she spearheads effective representation of community college districts in the business and facilities arenas.

Always looking down the road, Jessica stays alert for potential difficulties and helps protect her clients’ interests by nipping small problems in the bud before they can grow. When issues are best addressed in the courtroom, she draws on her significant experience as an advocate for public agencies in civil litigation, as well as in arbitration, mediation and informal dispute resolution. No matter what avenue she and her client pursue, Jessica strives to “out-prepare” the opponent. She fully understands that such diligence pays dividends by achieving optimal outcomes for her clients.

Large public entities’ scale and assets can rival those of Fortune 500 companies, and Jessica adeptly fields the wide range of issues that crop up for these highly complex organizations. Whether clients have concerns or disputes stemming from overhauls to existing structures, affordable housing for college students, energy efficiency in new buildings, bond measures on the ballot, unscrupulous contractors, or any number of other issues, Jessica guides them through challenges with steadfast resolve, sharp legal acumen, and a sense of fun that clients say helps take the stress out of work.