Employment Litigation
HB&B recognizes that litigation can be the least effective and most expensive method of dispute resolution. It is sometimes, however, unavoidable. Whether through direct representation or liability insurance (ELPI or D&O policies), HB&B’s employment attorneys work with companies to streamline the litigation process internally and to manage litigation in a cost-efficient manner.
When litigation is necessary, you will find that HB&B attorneys are experienced and effective in defending employers in the state and federal trial courts and before arbitrators, mediators and administrative agencies such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the California Fair Employment and Housing Commission. Our employment attorneys have handled numerous discrimination claims (involving race, sex, sexual harassment, religion, national origin, age, pregnancy, handicap, and disability arising under federal and state anti-discrimination law) as well as wrongful termination claims-two of the most frequently filed charges faced by employers in today’s workplace.
Representative Matters
HB&B trial attorneys have successfully defended employers against claims in a broad range of employment areas, including:
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Disability Discrimination: Defended a major airline resulting in a favorable decision that established workers’ compensation as the exclusive remedy for discrimination based on a work-related disability;
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Sexual Harassment: Summary judgment obtained in favor of a manufacturing client, where plaintiff claimed severe and pervasive sexual harassment throughout her employment;
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FMLA/CFRA: Trial and appeal decision for a major insurance carrier that leave to care for a child, terrorized by a nanny, was not a “serious health condition” warranting protected leave and that assigning new duties upon the employee’s return was not a constructive discharge;
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ERISA Benefits: Obtained summary judgment, upheld in a published appeal in favor of a manufacturing client, finding an employee was not entitled to certain pension contribution benefits;
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Gender Discrimination: Obtained a defense verdict on behalf of a large sport & gaming facility, reversing an EEOC finding that the client had discriminated against female employees;
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Breach of Implied Contract/Fraud: Successfully argued a motion for summary judgment in favor of a broadcast media client against plaintiff’s claims of an employment contract that automatically renewed and guaranteed continued employment.
