What the team is known for

Strong employment practice providing advice and counsel across a range of matters including internal investigations and complex class and collective actions. Draws on the firm's strong client base in the energy and natural resources industry, offering particular experience in MSHA and OSHA compliance and investigations. Also noted for its handling of the employment law implications of corporate transactions.

Strengths

"The firm has very competent lawyers with a wide range of expertise," say sources.

One client says: "I am very impressed with the knowledge, professionalism and customer service provided by the team. They are strong in all those areas and very tenacious."

Another source says: "I have found them to be practical while also maintaining the high level of legal service that we expect."

Work highlights

Acted for the Houston Grand Opera in connection with a grievance filed by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees union, which alleged that the Opera violated the parties’ collective bargaining agreement by denying certain breaks during preparations for spring 2017 performances.

Notable practitioners

Christopher Bacon is regarded by interviewees as a "very smart, thoughtful and detail-oriented" practitioner. One source says: "He has a knack for developing effective strategies for clients." His wide-ranging labor and employment experience includes OSHA investigations and discrimination and whistleblower disputes.

Sean Becker frequently assists clients with noncompetition issues, particularly in the context of corporate transactions. He is praised by clients for being "extremely knowledgeable and well versed in the subject matter."

Thomas Wilson is noted for his experience with OSHA disputes. He also counsels employers on all aspects of managing a global workforce. He receives praise for his "great experience and practical approach."

Vanessa Griffith is a respected labor and employment litigator with particular strength in wage and hour disputes. A client comments: "Vanessa’s strengths include her responsiveness, ability to communicate complicated employment laws in layman’s terms and general practical approach. She does not waste any time and cuts straight to the issue at hand."

Carl Jordan is regarded as "an outstanding labor and employment lawyer" by interviewees. He has a wealth of experience representing employers in high-stakes disputes and internal investigations. One source reports: "He's a dynamic, charismatic and bright person who is able to combine those attributes effectively."