Cohen & Gresser represents employers, from startups to multinational companies, and executives across the United States and abroad in nearly every aspect of employment law, from risk management and counseling on day-to-day personnel matters, to complex employment litigation, arbitration, and mediation.

On the risk management side, we regularly provide advice on employment policies and practices, including drafting offer letters, employee handbooks, social media and privacy policies, and advising on reductions in force and restructuring, leave management and accommodations, and compliance with state and federal law. We also routinely provide strategic guidance in connection with talent acquisition and on-boarding, termination, executive compensation, compliance with the various state laws on background checks and drug testing, discipline and performance management, and diversity and inclusion initiatives. Our attorneys are highly skilled in the drafting and negotiation of separation and release agreements, employment contracts, confidentiality, consulting and work for hire agreements, and restrictive covenants.

Our attorneys have conducted workplace investigations for public and private corporations arising from allegations of individual discrimination, harassment, retaliation, hostile work environment and pay equity, as well as for audit committees and other special committees. A key outcome of successful investigations is the creation and implementation of appropriate corrective actions that can help minimize future liability. To this end, C&G partners with its clients to recommend appropriate disciplinary actions, and any necessary policy, operational and compliance changes.

The firm was also appointed by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York to monitor the Fire Department of New York and is helping address its hiring and employment practices, including overseeing the recruitment, testing, hiring, training, and promotion of entry-level firefighters.

When litigation is unavoidable, we know how to try cases, and we know how to win. The firm’s U.S.-based Employment Law group advocates for employers and executives in state and federal court actions as well as before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the New York State Division of Human Rights, and the New York City Commission on Human Rights. We have significant experience defending employers and key employees against the full range of federal, state and administrative employment claims. We have successfully handled matters centering on restrictive covenants, including non-compete and non-solicit agreements, trade secrets, wrongful termination, discrimination, wages and benefits, and whistleblowing and retaliation claims.