professional bio
Prior to joining Bradford & Barthel, Deona Johnson's background garnered for her the equivalent of an advanced degree in California Workers' Compensation.
During Ms. Johnson's career as a Workers’ Compensation Auditor with the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR), she gained hands-on, practical exposure to the compensation system in general and garnered sophisticated revelations regarding strategies for obtaining expeditious, economical claim resolutions, in particular. Her auditing focused on open, closed, and denied claims, wherein she reviewed each for such issues as timeliness, benefit delivery, and compliance with what are oftentimes detailed, convoluted statutory requirements.
Preparing her for future sophisticated arguments before the WCAB, Ms. Johnson evaluated whether denials were supported by appropriate medical, factual, and/or legal grounds, and whether it issued within required timeframes. Her bailiwick also includes ensuring required notices and correspondence are properly issued. She reviewed claims handling activity within third-party administrator systems, assessed file organization and documentation for compliance, calculated reasonable reserves based on claim status and exposure, and confirmed that all medical bills and liens were appropriately adjusted and paid prior to closure.
Deona earned her Bachelor’s degree from Jarvis Christian College (JCC) and her Master of Arts (M.A.) degree from Texas Southern University (TSU). She obtained her J.D. from Trinity Law school by graduating in the top 10% of her class and receiving top marks in Evidence and Jurisprudence. During law school, Ms. Johnson gained practical experience as a small claims representative by developing skills in client communication, case review, and dispute resolution. She developed additional valuable insights via professional development opportunities and mentorship in TSU's Black Law Students Association.
Outside of work, Deona enjoys working out, trying new foods with her family, and traveling with her husband.
Education & Memberships
2024 Trinity Law School, Santa Ana, CA
Juris Doctor
2020 Texas Southern University, Houston, TX
Masters of Science (Administration of Justice)
2018 Jarvis Christian College, Hawkins, TX
Bachelor of Science (Criminal Justice)
2025 State Bar of California
