With extensive experience representing employers in a variety of industries, Brian’s business-oriented approach enables him to guide clients through a myriad of labor and employment challenges. He is a former Chairperson of the Defense Trial Counsel of West Virginia Employment Law Committee.
Understanding the impact that labor and employment disputes can have on business operations, Brian draws on his experience to help clients reach efficient, cost-effective resolutions. Working with clients in the banking, retail, health care and coal industries, he has guided them through an array of issues, including workers’ compensation, sexual harassment, age discrimination, unemployment, unfair labor practice and union representation cases. He has substantial experience practicing in both state and federal courts, as well as before the West Virginia Human Rights Commission, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the National Labor Relations Board. He also has drafted and litigated employment agreements, arbitration agreements and covenants not to compete.
Brian places a premium on partnering with his clients to learn their operations and culture as he builds a strategy that suits their needs. He often works closely with in-house counsel and staff, preparing employee handbooks and conducting supervisory training, taking a proactive approach to help clients anticipate and overcome challenges before they arise. Understanding the increasing role of technology and social media in the workplace, Brian also advises clients on policies and procedures to help them mitigate risk.
Brian is an active speaker and writer on labor and employment law issues. In addition, he speaks, writes, and provides training on leadership, relationship-building (networking), time management, and other personal development topics.