Texas Employment Litigation Attorney
In today’s complex business environment, traditional methods of navigating employment litigation and law are no longer sufficient.
At Ritter Spencer Cheng PLLC, we are intensely attuned to the challenges our clients face on a day-to-day basis, and the need to balance legal options against business strategies. We offer a blend of expertise and dedication in this challenging landscape, particularly on the management side of labor and employment matters.
We serve as labor and employment advisors and lawyers for companies throughout Texas and beyond, using sophisticated strategies to protect and position our clients from future legal challenges. When the need does arise, as highly experienced labor and employment lawyers, we handle all aspects of litigation, from administrative proceedings, arbitration and mediation to courtroom confrontations, and are committed to advancing your business’s legal standing.
Understanding Employment Litigation
What is Employment Litigation?
Employment litigation involves legal disputes between employers and employees, often centering on allegations of wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, unfair labor practices or wage disputes. As dedicated Texas employment litigation lawyers, we navigate these cases with a deep understanding of both state and federal laws, including the intricacies of Title VII, of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the National Labor Relations Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Civil Rights Act. Our goal is to protect your business from potential legal threats and ensure compliance with these continually evolving regulations under the Employment Act. Our Texas employment lawyers strive to maintain your company’s legal health in an ever-changing legislative environment.
Common Types of Employee Claims
Employee claims vary widely but commonly include allegations of discrimination, workplace harassment, wage and hour violations and violations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Each claim poses significant risks to a business if not managed effectively. We leverage our in-house legal experience, extensive trial experience and deep knowledge of employment law matters at our law firm to defend Texas and multi state employers against such claims. We are especially vigilant in cases involving age discrimination, applying our expertise to mitigate risks and uphold your company’s integrity.
OUR ATTORNEYS
Jeff M. Schagren
Jeffrey M. Schagren joined RSC most recently from an AmLaw 100 law firm where he was a member of the...
Contact JeffRichard Y. Cheng
Richard Y. Cheng, a distinguished member at Ritter Spencer Cheng PLLC, brings a wealth of experience and expertise in corporate...
Contact RichardKey Areas of Employment Law
Discrimination and Harassment
Investigating and defending against claims of discrimination and harassment requires a careful, informed approach that respects the legal rights of all parties while vigorously protecting our client’s interests. Our attorneys, skilled as labor and employment lawyers, are adept at navigating cases from internal investigations, the administrative charge process through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Texas Workforce Commission, Department of Labor, National Labor Relations Board and beyond, ensuring employer actions are compliant with both state, federal and local labor and employment laws. We act firmly to uphold your rights, reinforcing workplace integrity and fostering a discrimination-free environment.
Wage and Hour Compliance
Issues surrounding unpaid overtime, minimum wage, working off the clock and other wage and hour claims are notably prevalent in employment disputes. As experienced Dallas employment lawyers, we provide expert legal counsel to ensure your business practices are in full alignment with the Fair Labor Standards Act and other pertinent legislation. Our strategic guidance helps you avoid costly litigation and fines, ensuring operational compliance and safeguarding against common financial pitfalls in employment practices.
Legal Framework Governing Employment
Navigating Local, State and Federal Laws
The legal landscape for employers is characterized by a sophisticated interplay of local, state and federal laws. This complex framework is crucial for effectively managing and defending against employment claims. As your employment lawyer, we navigate these legal waters precisely, utilizing best practices by focusing on compliance with laws such as Title VII, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (Pregnancy Discrimination Act), the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act , the Family Medical Leave Act and any state and local equivalent. We ensure that your policies and practices are up to date, align with legal requirements, and are defensible, thus protecting your interests across all jurisdictions.
Role of Agencies
Employment and related litigation often involves interactions with various administrative agencies, such as the TWC, EEOC, DOL, NLRB and OSHA. Our firm adeptly represents employers in these interactions, providing expert guidance on responding to claims and preparing for potential litigation while ensuring compliance with all pertinent federal and state regulations. Our proactive approach helps mitigate risks and manages the complexities of numerous employment claims, ensuring your business adheres to legal standards and minimizes liability.
Why Choose Ritter Spencer Cheng, PLLC?
Our Legal Specialization and Credentials
As a board-certified business law firm, we bring certified expertise recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Our attorneys are practitioners and scholars of employment law with decades of experience, continuously enhancing their knowledge to stay abreast of the latest legal developments. This expertise particularly extends to employment discrimination, positioning us as leading Texas employment litigation attorneys dedicated to representing businesses with unparalleled legal acumen.
Legal Advocacy for Employers
Litigation and Arbitration
We offer thorough legal services in litigation, mediation and arbitration, representing employers in federal and state courts and arbitral panels including the American Arbitration Association and similar organizations . Our tailored approach accounts for the unique characteristics of each venue and the specific nuances of each case. With our profound trial experience and deep insights into labor and employment law and complex litigation, we vigorously defend our client’s interests, ensuring robust representation in all legal challenges.
Preventative Legal Strategies
Our approach extends beyond reactive defense; we focus on proactive measures to prevent disputes. This includes drafting and revising employee handbooks, employer policies and ensuring employment contracts and job duties comply with current legislation. Our proactive legal advice is designed to minimize the risk of litigation and promote a harmonious workplace environment. By integrating intellectual property considerations, our employment attorneys ensure your business is legally fortified.
Representing Employers in Court
Federal and State Court Representation
Navigating the complexities of federal and state courts requires deep legal knowledge and strategic acumen. Our law firm excels in representing employers across Texas in these high-stakes environments. Whether defending a case in Federal Court or a local Texas court, our focus is always on achieving the best outcome for our clients while minimizing risks and disruptions to their operations. As seasoned employment lawyers within a dedicated law firm focused on our client’s needs first and foremost, our approach is meticulously structured to protect your business interests at every turn.
Appeals and Higher Court Cases
Sometimes, employment disputes extend beyond initial verdicts, necessitating appeals. We have a strong track record in appellate courts, where we challenge unfavorable decisions and defend favorable ones. Our attorneys are adept at arguing complex legal issues and leveraging our extensive experience to benefit our clients at every judicial level. This strategic persistence ensures that we continue to offer comprehensive support and advocacy, maximizing the potential for a favorable resolution in higher courts.
Proactive Employer Legal Practices
Positive employee relations through proactive, regular communication and constructive problem solving is key to the success of any good organization.
Creating Effective Employee Handbooks and Positive Employee Relations Policies
A well-crafted employee handbook is one of the most effective tools in preventing employment litigation. We assist employers in drafting comprehensive handbooks that clearly communicate workplace policies and procedures. This helps standardize operations and significantly reduces legal vulnerabilities by ensuring all employees understand their rights and obligations. These handbooks are grounded in the latest labor and employment law principles, offering an up-to-date, solid legal foundation for employers and employees. We also advise on and draft policies that effect the workplace, including progressive discipline and performance reviews, paid time off and other leave policies, safety, anti-harassment, diversity, crisis and public relations protocols, risk management, diversity, social media and preventing violence in the workplace.
Training and Compliance
We provide training programs for employees, management and Human Relations personnel to keep them informed of the latest developments in labor and employment law and best practices for positive employee relations and compliance. These training sessions are crucial for maintaining a lawful workplace and can prevent many potential disputes from arising, safeguarding the company from potential litigation. Our focused training in labor and employment law helps companies navigate complex regulatory environments, ensuring all management and HR staff are equipped to handle legal challenges proactively.
Your Trusted Employment Lawyers in Texas and Beyond
At Ritter Spencer Cheng, we are more than just your legal representatives; we are your strategic partners in navigating the intricate world of employment law. With our deep expertise, unwavering commitment to excellence, and proactive approach, we ensure your business is prepared to meet future challenges head-on. As dedicated Texas employment litigation attorneys, we understand the local landscape and tailor our strategies to suit your needs.
We represent domestic and international businesses spanning a variety of industries, including energy, retail, healthcare, alternative substances, hospitality, manufacturing, alcohol and beverage and entertainment & sports.
With a deep-rooted commitment to upholding justice and a proven track record of success, we stand ready to address your unique legal challenges. Whether you’re an employer seeking advice on compliance or an executive seeking guidance, our expertise is your asset.
Our skilled team handles matters across our multi-state footprint, including Texas, Minnesota, New York, Maryland, Connecticut and Florida, where labor and employment issues are jurisdiction specific. We also have ample experience in mediation (both private and at the EEOC) and arbitrations in labor and employment disputes. We’re a strong team across the board, and can call upon the deep resources of our entire firm to bring the right knowledge and capabilities to your matters.
Ritter Spencer Cheng, PLLC, is here to assist you every step of the way. If you’re seeking comprehensive legal support, schedule an initial consultation with us today to explore how we can serve your labor and employment law requirements and help your business thrive.