Arcelia Magaña Named Partner at Constangy

Constangy is proud to announce Arcelia Magaña has been named a partner at the firm, effective January 1, 2026.

“Arcelia’s elevation to partner reflects not only her exceptional legal skill, but also the trust she has earned from clients and colleagues alike,” said Neil Wasser, chair of Constangy’s executive committee. “She brings a strategic mindset, courtroom strength, and a genuine commitment to helping employers navigate some of their most complex challenges. We are proud to recognize her leadership and look forward to her continued impact on the firm.”

Arcelia is a litigator and trial attorney who concentrates on labor and employment law. Focusing on creating stable and high-functioning work environments, she leverages her extensive experience to guide employers on best practices that help avoid the costly disruptions of litigation.

Over the past seven years, Arcelia has successfully defended over 20 wage and hour class and representative actions, including cases under the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA). This track record underscores her experience in complex legal disputes and her adept handling of high-stakes cases. She also skillfully manages responses to inquiries from the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), further showcasing her legal acumen.

Arcelia collaborates closely with clients to keep them informed of ongoing labor and employment policy developments and ensure compliance, helping them stay out of the courtroom. Her particular experience defending hotels and restaurants in employment cases allows her to align litigation strategies with the unique challenges and business objectives of hospitality employers. Starting her career on the plaintiffs' side gives her a well-rounded perspective, enriching her case strategies with valuable insights.

In addition to her practice, Arcelia is deeply committed to advancing the academic and professional success of the Latino/a/x community. Fluent in Spanish, she remains actively involved with community and professional organizations and is frequently recognized for both her legal accomplishments and leadership. Her honors include being named a San Diego Business Journal “Leader of Influence in Law” (2025) and “Latino Leader of Influence” (2024–2025), receiving the National Latina Business Women Association–San Diego’s Latina in Law Award (2024), and earning recognition in The Best Lawyers in America® “Ones to Watch” for Labor and Employment Law – Management and Litigation (2023–present) and Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions – Defendants (2026). She has also been recognized as a San Diego Super Lawyers® “Rising Star” (2020, 2022–present).