Alana A. Karbal

STRIVING TO BRING A VOICE TO THOSE WHO ARE AND FEEL UNHEARD. 

Inspired by historic tragedy, guided by a strong sense of purpose, and grounded in empathy and compassion, Alana Karbal advocates for employees across the country who have been wronged or shortchanged by their employers. A shareholder in the firm’s Employment Law and Unpaid Wages & Overtime practice groups, Alana has developed a record of successes in workplace disputes and fair compensation matters, with her efforts helping to protect and vindicate the rights of thousands of American workers.

The granddaughter and great-niece of Holocaust survivors, Alana grew up appreciating how injustices committed by the powerful against the powerless can rob people of their dignity, humanity, and spirit. She embarked on a career in the law to help level the playing field and advocate for individuals who lack the resources or knowledge to effectively fight back. To that end, Alana has built a well-established practice that focuses largely on Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) class and collective actions and related wage and hour matters, recovering millions of dollars on behalf of her clients.

Alana’s work requires careful preparation, thoughtful advocacy, and deep subject matter knowledge. Her practice involves managing a high volume of cases, claims, and arbitrations simultaneously in jurisdictions nationwide, requiring meticulous organizational skills and an ability to see both the larger strategic picture and individual nuances with clarity. That same organizational approach also informs the written and oral arguments Alana crafts, presenting complex legal issues in a clear and persuasive manner for courts and arbitrators.

The employers opposing Alana’s clients often include large national companies, represented by experienced defense counsel. Alana welcomes the challenge of these matters, approaching each case with preparation and focus, and earning the respect of courts and arbitrators, as well as colleagues, co-counsel, and opposing counsel.

Both through the firm and individually, Alana has consistently demonstrated a commitment to service, contributing her time and efforts to a range of charitable and philanthropic causes, including the Yad Ezra food pantry and Jewish Family Services. Alana has co-chaired the firm’s Sommers Schwartz Serves initiative for several years, coordinating volunteer and fundraising opportunities for attorneys and staff in support of community organizations throughout the Detroit Metro area.