Meet Our Attorneys

Lawrence B. Trygstad

With over 50 years of experience, Lawrence B. Trygstad is the founding force behind our firm. Starting his career as a teacher with the Los Angeles Unified School District, he became the first attorney for United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA) after earning his law degree from USC Gould School of Law. His pioneering work has helped shape education law in California, protecting the rights of teachers and educators across the state.

Education: USC Gould School of Law, J.D.; University of Michigan, B.A.
Professional Affiliations:  Los Angeles County and American Bar Associations, National Organization of Lawyers for Education Associations, Consumer Attorneys of California, among others.
Published Appellate Decisions: Taylor v. Board of Trustees of the Del Norte Unified School Dist. and more

Richard J. Schwab

Senior Attorney

For over 40 years, Richard J. Schwab has distinguished himself in trial and appellate courts. Coming from a family with roots in education and law, he has achieved numerous trial and appellate victories and crafted legislation that has expanded teachers’ rights. Richard's advocacy for members of United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA) and California Teachers Association (CTA) has resulted in fundamental improvements to the individual rights of educators as well as substantial compensation for those whose rights were violated.

Education:  UCLA School of Law, J.D.; UCLA, B.A.
Primary Practice Areas: Education Law, Criminal Law, Civil Rights, Administrative Law, Employment Law.

Published Appellate Decisions: Marken v. Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School Dist. and more

Shanon D. Trygstad

Senior Attorney

Building on her father’s legacy for over 30 years, Shanon D. Trygstad has a proven track record in employment law and disability cases. Known for her empathetic approach, Shanon excels in helping employees navigate discrimination and harassment claims and securing CalSTRS and CalPERS disability retirements. Her strong negotiation skills bring clients successful resolutions in complex disputes.

Education: USC Gould School of Law, J.D.; UC San Diego, B.A.
Languages: Proficient in Spanish.
Primary Practice Areas: Civil Rights, Employment Law, Disability Law, Education Law, Personal Injury.

Published Appellate Decisions: Taylor v. Board of Trustees of the Del Norte Unified School Dist. and Walent v. Los Angeles Unified School Dist.

With more than 30 years of legal practice, Daniel J. Kolodziej brings a wealth of experience, including roles as Director of Business & Legal Affairs in the film industry and General Counsel for corporate clients. His background on the “management side” gives him unique insights for advocating for individuals facing employment disputes, business transactions, and intellectual property issues. Daniel is also licensed in Nevada.

Education: UCLA School of Law, J.D.; University of Michigan, B.A.
Languages: Fluent in French and German.
Primary Practice Areas: Employment Law, Criminal Law, Business Transactions, Intellectual Property, Real Estate, Estate Planning & Probate

Published Appellate Decisions: Walent v. Los Angeles Unified School Dist. and Marken v. Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School Dist.