Employment Litigation and Administrative Advocacy

Overview

Robinson+Cole’s employment litigators serve regional, national, and international organizations, from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies, and represent corporate, governmental, and nonprofit entities.  If your organization has employees, we can help you.

Although proactive counseling, training, and policy development can help minimize litigation and legal risks, management decisions are frequently challenged in court or in administrative actions. While our lawyers regularly seek to achieve results for our clients through dispositive motions and favorable settlements, we are equally ready to bring cases to trial.

Our Services and Our Team

Robinson+Cole defends employers in employment claims before federal and state trial and appellate courts, administrative agencies, and in arbitrations and mediations. Our broad trial experience enables us to handle virtually any claim filed against our clients. We partner with our clients to avoid litigation exposure or to help them achieve a resolution in step with their business goals. Our employment litigation services including the following:

  • Defending discrimination and retaliation claims based on Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), the Connecticut Fair Employment Practices Act (CFEPA), and other federal, state, and local equal employment opportunity laws in federal and state court and before administrative agencies
  • Defending single plaintiff and multiplaintiff lawsuits, including collective actions and hybrid class actions, under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and state and local wage and hour laws, including exempt/nonexempt misclassification overtime claims and independent contractor misclassification claims in federal and state court and before the Department of Labor (DOL)
  • Defending common law claims based on public policy, contract, or tort, including the covenant of good faith and fair dealing, infliction of emotional distress, fraud, defamation, invasion of privacy, and negligent hiring and supervision in federal and state court
  • Defending free speech, whistleblower retaliation, and similar claims by single and multiple plaintiffs in federal and state court and before government agencies
  • Defending claims before federal, state, and local agencies, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO), the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD), the New York Department of Human Rights (NYDHR), the United States Department of Labor (USDOL), the Connecticut Department of Labor (CTDOL), and many others
  • Enforcing, or preventing enforcement of, noncompetition, nondisclosure, nonsolicitation, and confidentiality agreements; protection of trade secrets; prosecution of misappropriation of trade secret claims; and other intellectual property disputes
  • Coordinating or managing counsel to oversee litigation in multiple forums to achieve cost-savings and minimize risks of inconsistent positions in strategy, discovery, and outcomes
    • Experience
      • Engineered plaintiff's withdrawal of all national origin, and religious discrimination claims in federal court following jury selection with no money paid in settlement.
      • Serving as outside employment counsel for national fluids testing company with laboratories across the US for all multistate employment matters including investigations, wage and hour compliance, individual terminations and mass layoffs, electronic record keeping issues, and all other risk-management matters.
      • Represented a national truck rental company in lawsuits filed by two current and six former employees alleging discrimination based on sex, race, color, and national origin, and retaliation for having opposed discrimination in the workplace in violation of Title VII, Section 1981, and Connecticut law. The plaintiffs also sought to have their claims certified as a class action. Positioned the cases for mediation that resulted in a favorable global settlement.

      • Investigated and prosecuted former president, vice president, and plant manager in claims alleging misappropriation of trade secrets, theft, and breach of fiduciary duties for establishing and running a competitive business using our client's employees. Worked with private investigators, forensic accountants, and police officers to gather evidence establishing claims. Served as temporary in-house employment department, handling terminations, payroll, benefits, security, communications, and other matters.

      • After a three-day trial, a federal court jury returned a verdict in favor of our client, a municipal corporation, against an employee claiming race discrimination, hostile environment, and retaliation under Sections 1981 and 1983 and Title VII of the Civil Rights Acts.
      • Counseled national insurer on mass layoffs, risks-management issues, and separation packages, resulting in no lawsuits despite laying off over 1,000 employees and closing two offices over two years.
      • Obtained summary judgment on all counts in a case involving a multicount gender and disability discrimination matter in federal court for a Fortune 500 managed health care company.
      • Defended human service provider in superior court claim involving "fixed salary for fluctuating workweek" overtime.
      • Defended community health center in wide range of discrimination claims, including claims of sexual harassment, race, and disability discrimination.
      • Defended community health center in MCAD claim brought by terminated doctor for age, national origin, sex and sexual harassment claims.
      • Represented a school board sued for violation of Connecticut's free speech statute, defamation, invasion of privacy, and infliction of emotional distress, receiving a verdict in the board's favor on all counts.
      • Defended a national hotel company from wage and hour claims relating to a claimed failure to properly pay tips for banquet employees over a 14-year period.
      • Defended human service provider in litigation brought by employer for alleged breach of oral promise.
      • Counseled and represented a satellite technology company in the formation of a new business that was wrongly accused of misappropriation of trade secrets and other claims.
      • Represented a governmental entity through planning, trial, and appeals of a legal challenge to the entity's ordered conversion of health insurance offerings for retirees who had retired under long-expired collective bargaining agreements. Developed and oversaw all legal aspects of the conversion and defense strategy, which resulted in a groundbreaking Connecticut Supreme Court decision permitting the conversion.
      • Defended a shoe design company in a lawsuit filed by a former employee alleging sexual harassment and hostile environment charges. A Connecticut U.S. District Court Judge dismissed the case and agreed with the defendant’s legal argument that the plaintiff’s allegations did not amount to a severe and pervasive hostile work environment as compared to established law in the Second Circuit.
      • Representation of the board of directors of the Housing Authority of the City of New London on executive personnel matters.
      • Achieved summary judgment for a New York City-based global management consulting firm in employment contract litigation brought by former executive.
      • Achieved summary judgment for a New York City-based global management consulting firm based on 8 of 12 counts of noncompetition litigation on behalf of client and several of its senior executives.
      • Representation of a New York-based direct media company, with offices in South Carolina, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Indiana, in defending various employment-related discrimination claims before state and federal administrative fair employment agencies and courts. Representation includes employment counseling, employee policies, state and federal Department of Labor audits, and assistance in development and execution of several multiple-state reduction-in-force programs.
      • Representation of a federal defense contractor of submarines, and a key subsidiary of a Fortune 100 company, as lead counsel in a wrongful termination suit involving allegations of anti-kickback and related violations and several state and federal actions to compel arbitration of employment-related disputes pursuant to the company's comprehensive arbitration policy.

        • Business Litigation

      • Defended an international postal product manufacturer against Americans with Disabilities Act discrimination, constructive discharge, and wrongful termination claims. Resolved the case favorably before trial

        • Other Experiences

      • Defending a Global 500 international financial institution against Sarbanes-Oxley whistleblower retaliation claims filed by a former executive-level employee.

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    • News
      • October 20, 2016

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at AICUM Fall Symposium 2016

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at AICUM Fall Symposium 2016

          Labor and Employment Group lawyer Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Business Litigation Group lawyer Kathleen E. Dion presented at the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) Fall Symposium on October 14, 2016, at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. The session, "Scandal on Campus and the Modern Day Investigation: Harassment, Sexting, and Avoiding the 'Rabbit Hole,'" covered what today's workplace scandal looks like, the impact of technology on investigations, how to determine when an employer must investigate a complaint, and how to craft a witness interview strategy and investigation scope. Click here for the PowerPoint. AICUM provides a public voice on key policy matters that concern private independent colleges and universities in Massachusetts. 

      • April 15, 2016

        Ian Clarke-Fisher Presents at CLM 2016 Conference

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          Ian Clarke-Fisher Presents at CLM 2016 Conference

          Employment litigation lawyer Ian T. Clarke-Fisher spoke at the Claims and Litigation Management Alliance (CLM) Annual Conference on April 7, 2016, in Orlando, Florida. In his session, "Clearing the Smoke on Medical Marijuana in Employment," Mr. Clarke-Fisher, along with his co-presenters, Rachel Freedman of CNA Insurance, William Oberts of Tribler Orpett & Meyer, and Sarah Schmitz of OneBeacon Insurance Group, discussed issues surrounding medical marijuana use and the workplace. In particular, they focused on similarities and differences between state laws, unique issues faced by employers in certain sectors, and reasonable accommodations, among other issues.

          CLM works to promote the highest standards of claims and litigation management, bringing together the thought leaders of both industries.

      • October 2, 2015

        Ian Clarke-Fisher Is Nominated for CLM Membership

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          Ian Clarke-Fisher Is Nominated for CLM Membership

          Robinson+Cole lawyer Ian T. Clarke-Fisher has been invited to join the Claims and Litigation Management Alliance (CLM). Membership is extended by invitation only, based on nominations from CLM Fellows. An inclusive, collaborative organization, the CLM brings together thought leaders in claims and litigation management who promote and further the highest standards in both industries. The CLM's mission is to sponsor educational programs, provide resources, and foster communication through collaboration, education, communication, inclusion, and dedication.

          Mr. Clarke-Fisher, an employment litigation lawyer in the firm's New York office, is a member of the Labor and Employment Group.

      • July 8, 2015

        Stephen Aronson Serves as Panelist at UConn Law School

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          Stephen Aronson Serves as Panelist at UConn Law School

          Stephen W. Aronson, employment litigation lawyer in the Hartford office, participated in a panel discussion during a University of Connecticut School of Law class on employment litigation on April 15, 2015, to talk about the "real-life" practice of law. Adjunct faculty members Robyn Sondak, senior counsel at Travelers, and Jonathan Harris, partner at Axinn, Veltrop & Harkrider LLP, invited Mr. Aronson and two other panelists to discuss with the law students best practices, time management, civility, and building relationships.

      • July 7, 2015

        Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson Presents to SHRM Western CT Chapter

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          Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson Presents to SHRM Western CT Chapter

          Labor and employment lawyer Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson presented the session "The Workplace Scandal and Modern-Day Investigations: Harassment, Sexting, and Avoiding The 'Rabbit Hole'" to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Western CT on June 16, 2015, in Danbury, Connecticut. Ms. Cole-Johnson discussed internal employee investigations. The topics ranged from a review of what today's workplace scandal looks like and the impact of technology on investigations to determining when an employer must investigate a complaint and crafting a witness interview strategy and investigation scope.

          To find out more, click here to view the session's agenda and learning objectives.

      • November 21, 2014

        New York Lawyers Present New Developments in New York City and State Employment Law

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          New York Lawyers Present New Developments in New York City and State Employment Law

          Robinson+Cole lawyers Matthew T. Miklave, Katherine C. Glynn, Laura A. Torchio, and Ian T. Clarke-Fisher spoke on the ever-expanding employment laws and regulations in New York City and State on October 23, 2014. The CLE breakfast briefing, held in the firm's New York City office, explored the radically changing legal landscape resulting from these laws and specifically provided ways to address employment concerns in the City and State before they become major distractions.

          Mr. Miklave, Ms. Glynn, Ms. Torchio, and Mr. Clarke-Fisher, all resident in the New York City office, provide employment litigation services and counsel clients on various employment law matters.

      • November 20, 2014

        Stephen Aronson Appears on Talk Show, Participates in Presentations at USLFG Annual Meeting

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          Stephen Aronson Appears on Talk Show, Participates in Presentations at USLFG Annual Meeting

          Employment litigation lawyer Stephen W. Aronson appeared on the radio talk show In the Workplace on October 23, 2014. Along with Peter Cappelli, Professor of Human Resources Management at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business, and Daniel O'Meara, labor and employment lawyer at Montgomery McCracken, Mr. Aronson discussed social media and employment litigation. The panel fielded questions from listeners across the United States and Canada.

          In addition, Mr. Aronson participated in two sessions at the United States Law Firm Group's (USLFG) annual meeting in Philadelphia on October 24, 2014. He presented the Connecticut State Law Update to USLFG members. The update covered new legislation, court decisions, and other matters of interest to labor and employment practitioners. He also hosted a presentation on "Use of Social Media Evidence in Labor and Employment Cases," where the discussion focused on how social media evidence found on Facebook, LinkedIn, Snapchat, and other sites is used in employment litigation as well as the process for gathering, preserving, and showing such evidence in legal proceedings.

      • January 31, 2014

        R&C Attorneys Speak About Data Privacy and Security in the Workplace

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          R&C Attorneys Speak About Data Privacy and Security in the Workplace

          Litigation lawyer Andrea Donovan Napp and employment lawyer Jean E. Tomasco presented a seminar entitled "Big Data, Big Problems: Data Privacy and Security in the Workplace" for the Labor & Employment Law Section of the Connecticut Bar Association on January 23, 2014. Ms. Napp provided an overview of the numerous federal and state statutes and regulations concerning privacy, data security, and reporting of data breaches. Ms. Tomasco gave an update on recent civil litigation and enforcement actions, including tips on best practices for minimizing the risk of data breaches in the workplace and containing potential exposure for any breaches that might occur. The presentation also included guidance on drafting various employment policies that might implicate data privacy issues, such as policies concerning mobile communication devices and protection of confidential personal and health information.
      • November 8, 2013

        Hartford Lawyer Elected to Board of UConn's Law School Alumni Association

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          Hartford Lawyer Elected to Board of UConn's Law School Alumni Association

          Employment and benefits litigation lawyer Jean E. Tomasco has been elected to the Board of Directors of the University of Connecticut's Law School Alumni Association. Board elections were held at the Alumni Association's Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner, attended by over 250 law school alumni, faculty, and guests, at the Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville, Connecticut, on October 29, 2013.

          The association's mission is "to cultivate the spirit of community and pride among those who have attended the law school and to contribute to the advancement of the law school and the legal profession." All students who have attended the University of Connecticut School of Law are automatically members of the Alumni Association; there are currently over 8,500 members.
      • October 28, 2013

        Hartford Lawyers Write Article for NYSBA Journal

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          Hartford Lawyers Write Article for NYSBA Journal

          Employment litigation lawyers Stephen W. Aronson and Ian T. Clarke-Fisher wrote the article "Disloyal Employees Under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act: Recent Splits of Authority Within the Second Circuit," published in the Summer 2013 issue of the New York State Bar Association's (NYSBA) Labor and Employment Law Journal. The article discusses how using the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) to prosecute disloyal employees can test the limits of the act and examines its purpose and targeted audience. Specifically, Mr. Aronson and Mr. Clarke-Fisher consider these key points: the apparent ambiguities of the CFAA, the federal circuit court splits in considering the CFAA's application in the employment context, recent CFAA court decisions in the Second Circuit, and the consequences and application resulting from the ambiguity and varied approaches of the CFAA in the employment context.

          To view the article, please click here. (Reprinted with permission from: Labor and Employment Law, Summer 2013, Vol. 38, No. 2, published by the New York State Bar Association, One Elk Street, Albany, NY 12207.)
      • October 21, 2013

        Super Lawyers® Names 61 Robinson & Cole Attorneys to 2013 List

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          Super Lawyers® Names 61 Robinson & Cole Attorneys to 2013 List

          A total of 61 Robinson & Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Florida for 2013. The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.

          In addition, 19 attorneys at the firm were recognized as "Rising Stars." Read an explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology here.

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      • September 13, 2013

        Nicole Bernabo Appointed to Lead CBA's Labor and Employment Law Section

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          Nicole Bernabo Appointed to Lead CBA's Labor and Employment Law Section

          Labor and employment counsel Nicole A. Bernabo has been appointed as chair of the Connecticut Bar Association's (CBA) Labor and Employment Law Section for the 2013-2014 bar year. Ms. Bernabo served as vice chair of the section for the 2012-2013 bar year.

          The goals of the Labor and Employment Law Section are to promote legal analysis, dialogue, education, diversity, and leadership among practitioners who represent individuals, unions, employers, and agencies or serve as neutrals.

      • August 16, 2013

        Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

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          Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

          Robinson & Cole was again recognized as having the highest number of attorneys in Connecticut selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2014 (Copyright 2013 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). Across the firm's practice groups and offices, 56 attorneys were named to this year's list, including 48 in Connecticut and 2 who received the distinction for the first time.

          Additionally, three lawyers were named "Lawyer of the Year" for 2014. Judith M. Keppelman was named Hartford Trusts and Estates "Lawyer of the Year," Dwight H. Merriam was named Hartford Litigation - Real Estate "Lawyer of the Year," and James A. Wade was named Hartford Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants "Lawyer of the Year."

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      • May 17, 2013

        Hartford Lawyers Write Article for Connecticut Lawyer

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          Hartford Lawyers Write Article for Connecticut Lawyer

          Employment litigation lawyers Stephen W. Aronson and Ian T. Clarke-Fisher co-wrote an article entitled "Employee Free Speech in Connecticut: The Unsettled Landscape of Connecticut General Statutes § 31-51q," featured in the April 2013 publication of Connecticut Lawyer. In the article, Mr. Aronson and Mr. Clarke-Fisher address the unsettled state of employee free speech protections in Connecticut under the state's employee free speech statute. They analyze conflicting court rulings based on differences between the free speech rights under the federal Constitution compared with those rights under the Connecticut Constitution. Mr. Aronson and Mr. Clark-Fisher conclude that the landscape of employee free speech rights will remain in flux in Connecticut until further court rulings can guide employers and employees on the limits of free speech rights in the workplace.
      • March 5, 2013

        Steve Aronson and Ian Clarke-Fisher Write Article for Westlaw Journal

      • February 21, 2013

        The Connecticut Law Tribune Publishes Article by Steve Aronson and Ian Clarke-Fisher

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          The Connecticut Law Tribune Publishes Article by Steve Aronson and Ian Clarke-Fisher

          Employment litigation attorneys Stephen W. Aronson and Ian T. Clarke-Fisher authored the article "In Search of a Balance: When Employees Are Misclassified, There Are Competing Ways to Calculate Damages,” published in the Connecticut Law Tribune on October 22, 2012. The article examines the recent rise in actions filed under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) by current and former salaried employees claiming they were misclassified as exempt from the FLSA and emphasizes the need for Connecticut employers to keep tabs on their own situations as misclassification actions continue through the courts.
      • December 21, 2012

        Robinson & Cole Attorneys Appointed to Board of Directors of Nonprofits

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          Robinson & Cole Attorneys Appointed to Board of Directors of Nonprofits

          Robinson & Cole attorneys have recently joined the boards of four nonprofit agencies. Business litigation attorney Amanda B. Barry has joined the Board of Directors of The Children's Law Center, employment and labor attorney Nicole A. Bernabo was appointed to the Board of Directors of Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut, Inc., business litigation attorney Edward J. Heath has been elected to the Board of Directors of Greater Hartford Legal Aid, and health law attorney Brian D. Nichols has joined the Executive Board of Give an Hour.
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      • December 13, 2012

        Robinson & Cole Attorneys Earn Additional Honors for Pro Bono Work

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          Robinson & Cole Attorneys Earn Additional Honors for Pro Bono Work

          The pro bono efforts of Robinson & Cole attorneys have earned the attention and recognition of multiple agencies over the course of 2012. In the last few months, five new awards were given to honor the commitment of the firm's lawyers to pro bono work.

          The Connecticut Veterans Legal Center presented the firm with its 2012 Veterans Justice Award and named William J. Egan a Volunteer Hero; the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut gave Jeffrey J. White and Craig A. Raabe its 2012 Pro Bono Award on October 19; Connecticut Legal Services selected April F. Condon as one of its three 2012 honorees for her extensive pro bono work and honored her at its annual meeting on October 23; and the Pro Bono Partnership selected Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson as one of its five Volunteers of the Year from a pool of almost 1,000 attorneys in the tri-state area.
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      • August 28, 2012

        Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

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          Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

          Robinson & Cole LLP was again recognized as having the highest number of attorneys in Connecticut selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2013 (© 2012 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). Across the firm's practice groups and offices, 55 attorneys were named to this year's list, including 46 in Connecticut and 10 who received the distinction for the first time.

          Best Lawyers is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which more than 4.4 million confidential evaluations are submitted by attorneys on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their practice areas. Additional information regarding the Best Lawyers selection methodology may be read here. Corporate Counsel magazine has called Best Lawyers "the most respected referral list of attorneys in practice."

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      • July 11, 2012

        Labor & Employment Attorneys Discuss How to Navigate the Hiring Process

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          Labor & Employment Attorneys Discuss How to Navigate the Hiring Process

          Nicole A. Bernabo and Jean E. Tomasco, labor and employment attorneys, presented the two-part webinar “From Application to Offer: Navigating the Hiring Process” in May and June. The webinar examined how employers need to balance their need to obtain information regarding job applicants with various laws that restrict or prohibit certain inquiries. In part 1, “Vetting the Candidate,” attorneys Bernabo and Tomasco discussed pre-employment inquiries and screenings and criminal and credit background checks, including recently issued EEOC guidance on the use of criminal history. They also discussed the pros and cons of searching social media sites for information on applicants and using third-party entities to conduct background searches. In part 2, “Interviewing and Beyond,” they covered drug testing, pre-employment physicals, interview do’s and don’ts, and conditional employment offers.
      • June 30, 2012

        Theodore J. Tucci to Participate in the Metro Hartford Alliance’s Panel Discussion on the U.S. Supreme Court’s Ruling on Health Care Reform

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          Theodore J. Tucci to Participate in the Metro Hartford Alliance’s Panel Discussion on the U.S. Supreme Court’s Ruling on Health Care Reform

          Join leading health lawyers and professionals at Metro Hartford Alliance’s Rising Star Breakfast series on July 10, 2012, at The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts in Hartford, Connecticut.

          The Metro Hartford Alliance Rising Star Breakfast series will host a panel discussion on the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on health care reform featuring:

          • Theodore J. Tucci, Partner, Robinson & Cole LLP
          • Kevin Counihan, Chief Executive Officer, Connecticut Health Insurance Exchange
          • J. Bruce Boisture, Of Counsel, Day Pitney LLP
          The program runs from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. Registration, networking, and continental breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m.

          For more information and to register, click here.
      • May 31, 2012

        Robinson & Cole Expands Labor & Employment Practice with Addition of Three New Attorneys

      • May 31, 2012

        Wage and Hour Case Argued by Robinson & Cole Highlighted at Annual National Limousine Association Day on the Hill in Washington D.C.

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          Wage and Hour Case Argued by Robinson & Cole Highlighted at Annual National Limousine Association Day on the Hill in Washington D.C.

          Robinson & Cole labor and employment lawyer Katherine C. Glynn was a featured speaker earlier this month at the National Limousine Association's Day on the Hill in Washington D.C. The association invited Ms. Glynn to discuss a U.S. District Court decision in which she served as defense counsel on behalf of Commonwealth Worldwide Chauffeured Transportation of New York. In Andrew Ellis v. Commonwealth Worldwide Chauffeured Transportation of NY, LLC (United States District Court, Eastern District of New York) the court granted the defendants' motion for summary judgment in its entirety and dismissed all claims brought against Commonwealth. Ms. Glynn was defense counsel for Commonwealth and its executive vice president.
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      • May 22, 2012

        Labor and Employment Attorney Coaches Fifth Graders in Mock Trial

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          Labor and Employment Attorney Coaches Fifth Graders in Mock Trial

          Fifth grade students in Mrs. Cece Kendrick's class at Hartland Elementary School experienced a day in court at the school's Law Day with Robinson & Cole labor and employment attorney Nicole A. Bernabo on May 1, 2012.
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      • May 14, 2012

        Robinson & Cole Welcomes Twelve New Attorneys in Five Offices Expanding its Presence across the Northeast

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          Robinson & Cole Welcomes Twelve New Attorneys in Five Offices Expanding its Presence across the Northeast

          Robinson & Cole is pleased to announce that two partners and ten other lawyers have joined the firm's ranks across its Northeast offices. The new attorneys add a depth and breadth of experience to various practice areas, including business, labor & employment, finance, litigation, land use, and construction.

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      • April 11, 2012

        Employment Law Partner on Connecticut Employment Lawyers Association Panel Discussion

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          Employment Law Partner on Connecticut Employment Lawyers Association Panel Discussion

          Alice E. DeTora, chair of the Labor, Immigration and Employment Practice Group, participated on a panel of management lawyers invited to speak at a meeting of the Connecticut Employment Lawyers Association on March 21, 2012. The panel discussed ways to improve working relationships between plaintiff bars and defense bars.

          The Connecticut Employment Lawyers Association is a nonprofit organization of employment law attorneys who represent employees.
      • July 25, 2011

        Nicole Bernabo Moderates Panel on Arbitration in Employment Disputes

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          Nicole Bernabo Moderates Panel on Arbitration in Employment Disputes

          Labor and employment counsel Nicole A. Bernabo moderated the panel “Arbitration in Employment Disputes” at the Connecticut Bar Association annual meeting on June 23, 2011. The panel discussed best practices for presenting an employment dispute in arbitration, including new developments in arbitration case law, the role of discovery and motion practice, and how to best approach those issues in an arbitral forum.
      • March 30, 2010

        Robinson & Cole Attorney Speaks at Continuing Legal Education Seminar on the Discovery Process in Employment Litigation

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          Robinson & Cole Attorney Speaks at Continuing Legal Education Seminar on the Discovery Process in Employment Litigation

          Employment litigator Stephen W. Aronson spoke at the Continuing Legal Education seminar “Effective and Practical Uses of Discovery in Preparing Your Case for Summary Judgment and Trial,” hosted by the Labor and Employment Law Section of the Connecticut Bar Association. The program discussed effective use of discovery in employment litigation and provided practical tips and strategies on how to use and manage the discovery process. Mr. Aronson served on the panel and also led a discussion on "Electronic Discovery Issues in Employment Litigation: Efficient Management and Best Practices."
      • November 12, 2009

        Robinson & Cole Attorneys Present on Employment Program to Connecticut Chapter of American Institute of Architects

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          Robinson & Cole Attorneys Present on Employment Program to Connecticut Chapter of American Institute of Architects

          Employment partner Stephen W. Aronson and Construction partner Martin A. Onorato spoke at a recent educational program for the Connecticut chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) entitled "Employment Practices: Difficult Times Bring Difficult Issues." Mr. Aronson talked about reductions-in-force and other cost-saving techniques, misclassification of contractors and employees, response to the swine flu and business continuity approaches, protecting confidential information, and establishing a positive work environment. Mr. Onorato, chair of the AIA Connecticut Professional Practice Committee, moderated the program.
    • Publications + Presentations
    • "Scandal on Campus and the Modern Day Investigation: Harassment, Sexting, and Avoiding the 'Rabbit Hole'," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Kathleen E. Dion, presented at the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) Fall Symposium, College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts (10/14/2016)
      • » more info

        • Scandal on Campus and the Modern Day Investigation: Harassment, Sexting, and Avoiding the 'Rabbit Hole'

        "Scandal on Campus and the Modern Day Investigation: Harassment, Sexting, and Avoiding the 'Rabbit Hole'," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Kathleen E. Dion, presented at the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) Fall Symposium, College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts (10/14/2016)

        The session covered what today's workplace scandal looks like, the impact of technology on investigations, how to determine when an employer must investigate a complaint, and how to craft a witness interview strategy and investigation scope. Click here for the PowerPoint. 


      "The Workplace Scandal and Modern-Day Investigations: Harassment, Sexting, and Avoiding the 'Rabbit Hole'," presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, presented to the Society for Human Resource Management in Danbury, Connecticut (6/16/2015)

      "Religious Accommodations for Employers in the Health Care Workplace," co-authored by Stephen W. Aronson and Pamela H. Del Negro (June 2015)

      "Use of Social Media Evidence in Labor and Employment Cases," at United States Law Firm Group's (USLFG) annual meeting in Philadelphia, presented by Stephen W. Aronson (10/24/2014)
      • » more info

        • Use of Social Media Evidence in Labor and Employment Cases

        "Use of Social Media Evidence in Labor and Employment Cases," at United States Law Firm Group's (USLFG) annual meeting in Philadelphia, presented by Stephen W. Aronson (10/24/2014)

        Mr. Aronson hosted the discussion, which focused on how social media evidence found on Facebook, LinkedIn, Snapchat, and other sites is used in employment litigation as well as the process for gathering, preserving, and showing such evidence in legal proceedings.


      "New York City and State Employment Law: Recent Developments," presented at Robinson+Cole's New York City office, co-presented by Ian T. Clarke-Fisher, Matthew T. Miklave, Katherine C. Glynn and Laura A. Torchio (10/23/2014)
      • » more info

        • New York City and State Employment Law: Recent Developments

        "New York City and State Employment Law: Recent Developments," presented at Robinson+Cole's New York City office, co-presented by Ian T. Clarke-Fisher, Matthew T. Miklave, Katherine C. Glynn and Laura A. Torchio (10/23/2014)

        The session explored the radically changing legal landscape resulting from these laws and specifically provided ways to address employment concerns in the City and State before they become major distractions.


      "Practical Implications of the Revamped Connecticut Personnel Files Act," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Nicole A. Bernabo, webinar (10/29/2013)

      "Check out our Manufacturing Law Blog" (09/10/2013)

      "Employee Free Speech in Connecticut: The Unsettled Landscape of Connecticut General Statutes § 31-51q," published in Connecticut Lawyer, co-authored by Ian T. Clarke-Fisher and Stephen W. Aronson (04/2013)

      "2012 Employment Law Roundup," co-presented by Nicole A. Bernabo, Jean E. Tomasco and Andrea Donovan Napp, webinar (11/15/2012)

      "A Key Court Decision for Employers in Connecticut" (10/16/2012)

      "Supreme Court Holds Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act Constitutional" (06/29/2012)

      "Defense of Marriage Act Ruled Unconstitutional" (06/04/2012)

      "Arbitration in Employment Disputes," presented by Nicole A. Bernabo, moderated panel at Connecticut Bar Association Annual Meeting (6/23/2011)

      "Social Media in the Workplace - What to Consider to Protect Your Company," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Nicole A. Bernabo and Alice E. DeTora, webinar (3/30/2011)

      "Understanding & Applying Daubert Principles in Today's Cases," at West LegalEdcenter CLE Course, Iselin, New Jersey, presented by Rebecca Levy-Sachs (9/22/2010)
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        • Understanding & Applying Daubert Principles in Today's Cases

        "Understanding & Applying Daubert Principles in Today's Cases," at West LegalEdcenter CLE Course, Iselin, New Jersey, presented by Rebecca Levy-Sachs (9/22/2010)
        Tutorial Program on the Background and History of Fed. R. Civ Pro 702, review of the Daubert trilogy of U.S. Supreme Court cases related to judicial gatekeeping to determine the admissibility of expert testimony to the trier of fact; review of Daubert factors, and litigation strategy in light of post Daubert decisions; strategy for retention, preparation, defense, and attack of expert witnesses in litigation.

      "States divided over asset purchases and non-competes," published in New England In-House, more details (1/2010)

      "The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act: An Overview and Discussion of a Recent First Circuit Case," at Boston Bar Assocation (3/11/2008)

      "Common Benefits Mistakes (and How to Minimize Risk)," at the Hartford Chapter of W.E.B. (Working in Employee Benefits), a group of benefits professionals (2/28/2008)

      "Wrongful Termination and Exceptions to At-Will Employment," at Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education Seminar, cochair of seminar, contributing author to seminar handbook (6/15/2007)

      "Is an Employer Liable When Its Sales Employee Breaches a Noncompetition or Nonsolicitation Agreement with a Former Employer?" published in Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education (2007)

      "Enforcing Noncompetition Agreements Against Out-of-State Employees," published in Connections: Cambridge Chamber of Commerce Newsletter (12/2006)
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        • Enforcing Noncompetition Agreements Against Out-of-State Employees

        "Enforcing Noncompetition Agreements Against Out-of-State Employees," published in Connections: Cambridge Chamber of Commerce Newsletter (12/2006)
        The article explores some of the variations in state law concerning the enforcement of noncompetition agreements.

      "Big Brother, Hidden Cameras & Other Surveillance in the Workplace," at Massachusetts Bar Association Luncheon Roundtable, presented by Jeffrey M. Feuer, Esq., and David R. Kerrigan, Assistant Attorney General (1/11/2006)
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        • Big Brother, Hidden Cameras & Other Surveillance in the Workplace

        "Big Brother, Hidden Cameras & Other Surveillance in the Workplace," at Massachusetts Bar Association Luncheon Roundtable, presented by Jeffrey M. Feuer, Esq., and David R. Kerrigan, Assistant Attorney General (1/11/2006)
        This program discusses legal and practical issues related to the employer as "big brother." When, how and at what risk can you probe into seemingly personal, private aspects of employees' lives, both inside and outside the workplace, including where you should and should not install surveillance cameras? And what employer policies should you have to protect you from claims of invasion of privacy? Learn the inside story on Nelson v. Salem State College, currently before the SJC and where Massachusetts law is headed regarding hidden cameras in the workplace.

      Labor and Employment in Connecticut: A Guide to Employment Laws, Regulations, and Practices, authored by Jeffrey L. Hirsch (2006, 2007)

      "Challenges Facing Payroll Managers in an Electronic Workplace," at American Payroll Association, Hartford Chapter, quarterly meeting, presented by Stephen W. Aronson (6/23/2005)

      "Aetna v. Davila: A New Look at ERISA Preemption of Medical Malpractice Claims," published in The Brief, American Bar Association, Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section (5/24/2005)
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        • Aetna v. Davila: A New Look at ERISA Preemption of Medical Malpractice Claims

        "Aetna v. Davila: A New Look at ERISA Preemption of Medical Malpractice Claims," published in The Brief, American Bar Association, Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section (5/24/2005)
        This article discusses the facts behind the Supreme Court's groundbreaking decision regarding federal preemption of state law medical malpractice claims against HMOs, explores the legal landscape leading up to the decision, and considers lessons to be learned.

      ERISA Survey of the Federal Circuits, Health and Disability Insurance Law Committee, contributing author (2005 edition)

      "Practical Guidance for Drafting and Enforcing Mandatory Arbitration Agreements in Employment Contracts: Ensuring Arbitral Adherence to Agreed-Upon Procedural Rules," published in Bender's Labor & Employment Bulletin (5/2003)

      "Deposing the Plaintiff in an Employment Lawsuit," at LEB in Practice, presented by Stephen W. Aronson (1/28/2003)

      "The Great Compromise: Where to Convene the Trial of the Suspects Implicated in the Pan Am Flight 103 Bombing Over Lockerbie, Scotland," published in Suffolk Transnational Law Review (Fall 1999)

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