Finding the best employment lawyers in the United States can be challenging. Whether you’re facing workplace discrimination, wrongful termination, or wage disputes, having a skilled attorney by your side is important. The area overview of employment law is constantly evolving, and the best employment lawyers in the United States stay ahead of these changes. They’re not just legal experts; they’re advocates who understand the real-world impact of workplace issues on people’s lives.
Table of Contents:
- Best Employment Law Firms in the United States
- Notable Individual Employment Lawyers
- What Makes an Outstanding Employment Lawyer?
- Choosing the Right Employment Lawyer
- The Importance of the National Employment Lawyers Association
- The Role of Technology in Modern Employment Law
- FAQs about Best Employment Lawyers in the United States
- Conclusion
Best Employment Law Firms in the United States
While individual attorneys often make headlines, many of the best employment lawyers in the United States work as part of larger firms specializing in labor and employment law. These firms bring together teams of experts to tackle complex cases and provide comprehensive services to both employees and employers.
Here’s a look at some of the most highly regarded employment law firms in the country:
| Firm Name | Notable Specialties | Location(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Littler Mendelson P.C. | Employment litigation, labor relations | Nationwide |
| Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP | Class action defense, ERISA litigation | Nationwide |
| Ogletree Deakins | Workplace safety, immigration | Nationwide |
| Seyfarth Shaw LLP | Wage and hour litigation, trade secrets | Nationwide |
| Proskauer Rose LLP | Sports law, executive compensation | Major U.S. cities |
These firms have consistently been recognized for their excellence in employment law. For instance, Littler Mendelson has been named the “Lawyer Monthly – Labor and Employment Law Firm of the Year, USA” multiple times.
Notable Individual Employment Lawyers
While many exceptional employment lawyers work within large firms, there are also standout individual practitioners who have made significant impacts in the field. Here are a few notable examples of some of the best employment lawyers in the United States:
Scott Oswald – The Employment Law Group
Scott Oswald, managing principal of The Employment Law Group, has been consistently recognized as one of the top employment lawyers in Washington D.C. He’s been named one of the Top 100 Super Lawyers of any type in Washington, D.C., for nine years straight, including in 2023. Oswald specializes in whistleblower protection cases and has secured numerous multi-million dollar settlements for his clients.
Nancy Erika Smith – Smith Mullin, P.C.
Nancy Erika Smith has made a name for herself by taking on high-profile sexual harassment cases. She represented Gretchen Carlson in her lawsuit against Fox News chairman Roger Ailes, which led to a $20 million settlement and Ailes’ resignation. Smith’s work has helped bring national attention to workplace sexual harassment issues.
David Sanford – Sanford Heisler Sharp, LLP
David Sanford has been at the forefront of gender discrimination cases in the legal and financial industries. He’s secured numerous large settlements in class action lawsuits against major corporations and law firms. Sanford’s work has helped push for greater equality in traditionally male-dominated fields.
What Makes an Outstanding Employment Lawyer?
Before we discuss specific attorneys, it’s important to understand what qualities define the best employment lawyers in the United States. These legal professionals possess a blend of skills and attributes that enable them to effectively represent their clients in complex workplace disputes.
Deep Legal Knowledge
The best employment lawyers have an encyclopedic understanding of federal and state labor laws. They’re well-versed in statutes like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. They must stay current on new legislation and court decisions that could impact their cases.
Strong Negotiation Skills
Many employment disputes are resolved through negotiation rather than litigation. Top-tier employment attorneys are skilled negotiators. They advocate effectively for their clients’ interests while finding mutually beneficial solutions when possible.
Litigation Experience
When cases go to court, the best employment lawyers in the United States have the trial experience to present compelling arguments. They also know how to navigate complex legal procedures. They’re comfortable in the courtroom and know how to build persuasive cases.
Empathy and Communication
Employment issues often involve sensitive personal matters. The most effective attorneys in this field have strong interpersonal skills. They communicate complex legal concepts clearly to their clients. They’re empathetic listeners who understand the emotional toll of workplace disputes.
Industry Recognition
Many of the top employment lawyers have earned recognition from peer review organizations like Best Lawyers or Super Lawyers. While these accolades aren’t everything, they can be a good indicator of an attorney’s reputation among their peers.
Choosing the Right Employment Lawyer
While it’s helpful to know about some of the best employment lawyers in the United States, the right attorney for you will depend on your specific situation. Here are some factors to consider when selecting an employment lawyer:
Specialization
Employment law covers a wide range of issues. Look for an attorney who has experience with cases similar to yours. For example, if you’re dealing with a wage and hour dispute, you’ll want a lawyer who specializes in that area. This is more helpful than a lawyer who primarily handles discrimination cases.
Location
While many employment laws are federal, state laws can vary significantly. It’s often beneficial to work with a lawyer who’s familiar with the specific laws and court systems in your state.
Firm Size
Consider whether you’d prefer to work with a large firm or a smaller practice. Large firms often have more resources, but smaller firms may offer more personalized attention.
Cost
Understand the lawyer’s fee structure upfront. Some employment lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Others charge hourly rates.
Communication Style
Choose a lawyer whose communication style meshes well with yours. You’ll be working closely with this person on sensitive issues, so it’s important that you feel comfortable with them. You should find an employment lawyer with extensive experience providing representation to ensure your legal rights are protected.
The Importance of the National Employment Lawyers Association
When searching for the best employment lawyers in the United States, it’s worth paying attention to membership in professional organizations. The National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA) is a particularly important group in this field.
NELA is the largest organization of lawyers who exclusively or primarily represent employees in employment law cases. Membership in NELA indicates that an attorney is dedicated to protecting workers’ rights and staying current on developments in employment law. Many of the top employment lawyers in the country are active members of NELA. They participate in continuing education programs and collaborate with peers to advance workers’ rights.
NELA members have extensive experience in many different areas of employment law, including sexual harassment, discrimination based on race, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, and sexual orientation, and whistleblower retaliation. They are also well-versed in the federal courts and the laws prohibiting discrimination in the workplace. While membership alone doesn’t guarantee an attorney’s quality, it can be a good indicator of their commitment to employment law and employee advocacy.
The Role of Technology in Modern Employment Law
The best employment lawyers in the United States aren’t just experts in the law. They are also adapting to technological changes that are reshaping the workplace. As remote work becomes more common and new technologies raise novel legal questions, top employment lawyers are staying ahead of the curve.
For instance, issues around employee monitoring, data privacy, and the use of artificial intelligence in hiring and promotion decisions are becoming increasingly important. The most forward-thinking employment lawyers are developing expertise in these areas to better serve their clients in the modern workplace.
FAQs about Best Employment Lawyers in the United States
What is the #1 law firm in the US?
There’s no definitive “#1 law firm” in the US, as different firms excel in different areas. For employment law specifically, firms like Littler Mendelson, Morgan Lewis, and Ogletree Deakins are consistently ranked among the top nationwide.
How do I find the best lawyer in the USA?
To find the best lawyer for your needs, consider factors like specialization, experience, location, and reputation. Resources like the American Bar Association, Super Lawyers, and peer review publications can help. It’s also important to meet with potential attorneys to ensure a good fit. You should make sure they are experienced discrimination-based cases.
What is the highest paying law firm in the US?
Compensation at law firms can vary widely and change yearly. Generally, large corporate law firms in major cities like New York tend to offer the highest salaries. However, the highest-paying firms may not necessarily specialize in employment law.
Who is the largest employer of lawyers?
The U.S. government is likely the largest employer of lawyers, with attorneys working across various agencies and departments. In the private sector, large law firms and corporate legal departments also employ significant numbers of lawyers.
Conclusion
The best employment lawyers in the United States are more than just legal experts. They’re advocates who can navigate complex laws while understanding the real-world impact of workplace issues on people’s lives. Whether you’re an employee facing discrimination or an employer trying to ensure compliance, having a skilled employment lawyer can make a crucial difference.
From nationwide firms with hundreds of attorneys to individual practitioners making waves with high-profile cases, the field of employment law is diverse and dynamic. The key is finding the right fit for your specific needs and situation. As workplace norms continue to evolve and new legal challenges emerge, the role of employment lawyers will only become more important. By staying informed about your rights and working with skilled legal professionals when needed, you can better navigate the complex world of employment law.
Remember, while it’s helpful to know about some of the best employment lawyers in the United States, the right attorney for you will depend on your unique circumstances. Take the time to research and consult with potential lawyers to find the best advocate for your situation.
