Our employment practice focuses on helping employers. Some of the areas in which we help employers include:

Employment policy review – Laws and workplace customs are continually evolving. One of the best ways to prevent a potential employment lawsuit is to have clear policies that are responsive to the latest legal changes. We can review existing policies and manuals and assist in drafting new ones.

Non-compete and employment agreements – we are experienced in drafting, defending, and enforcing employment, non-compete, non-solicitation, and severance agreements.

Protecting confidential information and trade secrets – we help employers protect electronic information and trade secrets from poaching by former employees through enforcement of Missouri’s computer tampering law and non-compete agreements.

Legal advice regarding termination decisions – we can help employers minimize legal risk by advising the employer about legal options and considerations in terminating an employee. Having good legal advice before and during a termination decision can substantially minimize legal risk and potential litigation costs down the road.

Investigations – When an employee alleges harassment or hostile work environment, it can help to have an investigation conducted by a neutral, outside observer who can advise as to the credibility of the allegations and the best course moving forward. We have experience in conducting this type of investigation, and can tailor an investigation to fit the scope of the allegations and budget.

Employee classification issues – using independent contractors
can be beneficial in many situations, but misclassifying a worker as an independent contractor can be a costly mistake. We can help employers evaluate whether a worker is truly an “independent contractor” or an “employee.”

Unemployment claims – we provide advice and assistance in responding to unemployment claims, including an overview of the process, an honest assessment of whether the claim should be challenged, and assistance with appealing a negative determination.

Discrimination defense – We have successfully defended employment discrimination claims brought against our clients, from the complaint filed at the MCHR/EEOC to final resolution. We work to minimize cost for the employer by early investigation and negotiation. Where a matter cannot be resolved outside of litigation, we have successfully resolved many claims through dispositive motions practice.

Wrongful termination / whistleblower defense – We have successfully defended claims that an employee’s termination was wrongful or retaliation for a whistleblowing complaint, whether filed as a lawsuit or a complaint to a state or federal agency.