Barran Liebman LLP
USA Guide 2024
About
Firm Details:
Managing Partners: Edwin A. Harnden & Andrew M. Schpak
Executive Director: Traci R. Ray
Number of Partners: 13
Number of Lawyers: 21
Languages: English
FIRM OVERVIEW:
Barran Liebman is an employment, labor, benefits, and higher education law firm that exclusively represents employers. The firm provides employment law and labor management solutions for employers of all sizes and industries, including colleges, universities, boards, and administrations. Located in Portland, Oregon, Barran Liebman attorneys are proud to support clients in the Pacific Northwest and across the country. Whether an employer, human resource professional, in-house counsel, business executive, or business owner, clients benefit from Barran Liebman's specialized experience and exceptional client service.
For more than 25 years, Barran Liebman has concentrated their work in five practice areas including employment advice, employment litigation, higher education compliance and litigation, labor relations, and employee benefits.
MAIN AREAS OF PRACTICE:
As the largest employment law firm in Oregon, Barran Liebman’s experienced attorneys and dedicated staff collaborate to defend the interests of employers from all sizes and industries. From employment matters such as sexual harassment, collective bargaining, and wrongful discharge (to name only a few), the firm’s attorneys are proficient in the legal complexities of their practice, and clients benefit from their efficiency and effectiveness both in the advice they give and in the litigation, negotiation, and mediation arenas.
Although Barran Liebman is well-known for providing optimal results for clients when they seek representation, the firm is also a strong believer that a workplace challenge is best handled if it is prevented in the first place. Barran Liebman strives to create a strong foundation for the workplace by providing a variety of proactive client training tools and educational opportunities.
Employment Law Advice:
Barran Liebman regularly handles issues and disputes arising from claims involving discrimination; ADA, ADEA and Title VII; substance abuse; employee status and classification; employee theft; employment contracts; equal employment opportunity matters; family medical leave; privacy; retaliation; sexual harassment; violence; wage and hour; social media; wrongful termination; complex executive disputes; non-competition and non-solicitation agreements; misappropriation of trade secrets and other intellectual property; and separation benefits. The firm also prepares and revises workplace policies and procedures, including employee handbooks. In addition, the firm’s attorneys participate in rules development for administrative agencies and in the legislative process, and prepare amicus briefs in employment EEO and employment-at-will cases in appellate courts.
Employment Litigation:
Much of Barran Liebman’s employment work is in the litigation arena, including everything from equal employment opportunity, discrimination, harassment, wage and hour, and employment-at-will matters. Each year, the firm handles hundreds of Oregon Civil Rights Division, EEOC, OFCCP, and Washington Human Rights Commission charges and defends dozens of court actions throughout the Northwest. The team defends employers in litigation brought against them and brings claims on behalf of employers.
Labor Relations:
Barran Liebman represents employers in both private and public sectors, offering counsel in both union and non-union environments. The firm works with employers to avoid union campaigns altogether by helping implement fair policies for effective management that decrease the need for employees to seek outside union representation. However, if the union engages in such a campaign, they work with employers on the proper responses. Barran Liebman’s deep bench and experience in handling National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and state labor relations agency hearings benefits clients as they provide insightful counsel on the best ways to avoid Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) complaints. However, if a complaint does arise, the firm represents employers in ULP proceedings, strikes, secondary activity, and negotiations at the bargaining table or behind-the-scenes. The team also regularly advises on contract interpretation and grievance management and handling.
Employee Benefits:
Barran Liebman represents employers in the drafting, design, and growth of retirement and health plans, as well as executive compensation and §409A compliance. This includes counseling private employers, municipalities, and multi-employer pension and benefit trusts in all aspects of the design, tax qualification, and ERISA compliance of retirement plans, executive compensation, and health and welfare benefit plans.
Higher Education:
Barran Liebman provides legal advice and representation to universities for their specialized employment and compliance needs. The firm’s work includes a deep understanding of the range of issues that are unique to institutions of higher learning, including issues with faculty (recruitment and hiring, tenure disputes, discipline, and academic freedom), students (employment, discipline, and confidentiality), and staff, including Title IX and FERPA compliance advice and training.
Internal Investigations:
Barran Liebman performs neutral fact-finding investigations for a variety of workplace settings ranging from public entities, including state agencies and local governments, to private companies and non-profits. The firm has a strong team of investigators who have honed their skills through years of experience as well as certification and continuing education with the Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI) Training Institute.
Key Contact:
Traci R. Ray, Executive Director
Tel: 503 276 2115
Email: [email protected]
Ranked Offices
Provided by Barran Liebman LLP
- Portland601 SW Second Avenue, Suite 2300, Portland, Oregon, USA, OR 97204-3159
- Web: www.barran.com
- Tel: +1 503 228 0500
- Fax: +1 503 274 1212
- View ranked office
Barran Liebman LLP rankings
Articles, highlights and press releases
25 items provided by Barran Liebman LLP
Covered Employers May Now Report 2021 EEO-1 Component 1 Data: Are You Covered?
This week, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission announced that the 2021 EEO-1 Component 1 data collection process is open. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert unpacks what is required of employers before the May 17 deadline.
SB 1514 Extends Pay Equity Exceptions
With temporary provisions to Oregon’s Equal Pay Act set to expire yesterday, fortunately for employers, the Oregon legislature just passed SB 1514. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert covers what this exemption means for employers with regards to hiring and retention bonuses.
Be Careful When Disciplining Employees for Complaining About Work on Social Media!
Private sector employers take note: be careful when disciplining employees for complaining about work on social media. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert explains how regardless of whether an employer is unionized, an employee’s social media post may be considered “protected concerted activity."
Current Status of Federal & State Vaccine Rules for Healthcare Employers
Oregon healthcare employers take note: the Oregon Health Authority filed a permanent rule keeping in place vaccination requirements in healthcare settings. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert discusses the compliance phases for covered employers.
Employers Must Notify Employees About the Earned Income Tax Credit
As a reminder, Oregon employers are required to notify employees that they may be eligible for earned income tax credit. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert explains the requirement as well as acceptable means of notification.
U.S. Supreme Court Stays OSHA ETS—Upholds CMS Vaccine Mandate
The U.S. Supreme Court just released two key decisions on vaccinations in the workplace. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert explains the decisions and what they mean for employers.
Stay on OSHA's Vaccine or Test Mandate Overturned
The stay on OSHA’s vaccine or test mandate has been overturned. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert explains what employers need to know as they plan for compliance and keep closely attuned to changing information from the federal courts.
How Employers Should Approach the Federal Vaccine Mandates That are Held Up in Courts
As court battles rage on for three federal vaccine mandates that are currently on hold, it is important for employers to understand their obligations. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert discusses how employers can prepare now as we await litigation surrounding the mandates.
Best Practices for Responding to Complaints & Conducting Remote Workplace Investigations
It's time to evaluate your policies and practices for responding to complaints and conducting remote workplace investigations. This Barran Liebman E-Alert discusses shifting workplace investigation considerations, as well as best practices for ensuring effective investigations when the need arises.
Vaccination, Testing, & Unions: Employers Must Negotiate with Unions over Parts of OSHA ETS
On Wednesday, 11/10, the NLRB GC’s Office outlined their position on employers’ bargaining obligations under OSHA’s recent Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on vaccinations. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert explains employer requirements specified in the NLRB’s Memo.
OSHA Releases COVID-19 Vaccination & Testing Rules for Employers with 100 or More Employees
Attention all employers with 100 or more employees: Released today, OSHA’s new rule will require employee COVID-19 vaccination or weekly testing regardless of industry. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert explains the rule as well as effective deadlines for employers.
Deadline for Federal Contractors to be Vaccinated Set for December 8
The Safer Federal Workforce Task Force issued guidance requiring federal contractors and subcontractors with a covered contract to follow a variety of workplace safety protocols, including vaccination. This Barran Liebman E-Alert explains what is required before the December 8 deadline.
New Oregon Unemployment Rule to Take Effect Next Week
The Oregon Employment Department’s new temporary unemployment benefit availability rule will take effect next week. This Barran Liebman E-Alert explains the rule’s clarifications.
Federal Executive Order Requires Private Businesses with 100 or More Employees to Mandate Vaccines
Last week, President Biden signed an executive order that required all private sector employers with 100 or more employees to mandate vaccines or weekly testing. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Amy Angel and Bruce Garrett explain the upcoming deadlines.
FDA Approves Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Triggering October 18, 2021 Vaccination Deadline for Some
With FDA approval for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine comes a deadline for Oregon healthcare workers, educators, and executive branch employees to get the vaccine. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Amy Angel, Bruce Garrett, and Julie Preciado discuss the upcoming October 18, 2021 deadline.
Masks Mandate Update Part 2: OHA Issues Temporary Rule on Statewide Mask Mandate
Mask Mandate Update Part 2: In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Amy Angel & Julie Preciado explain the OHA’s Temporary Rule on the Statewide Mask Mandate.
Masks Mandated Again Beginning August 13th in All Public Indoor Settings in Oregon
Beginning August 13th, masks will again be mandated in all Oregon public indoor settings. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Amy Angel and Julie Preciado explain the requirements.
Your Fall Employee Benefits Guide: A Wrap-Up of a Few of Our Favorites
From continuing remote work complexities, to hastily-drafted legislation, to a constant stream of guidance, there is much to note in the benefits arena. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Barran Liebman attorneys Jeff Robertson and Iris Tilley summarize key compliance considerations for employers.
BOLI Publishes Final Rules for Daily & Weekly Overtime in Oregon
The Oregon Health Authority adopted new safety and health measures for personnel in health care settings. This Barran Liebman E-Alert explains the vaccination or frequent testing requirements.
Oregon OSHA Issues Temporary Rules for Wildfire Smoke
Employers take note! Oregon OSHA issued temporary rules that apply when employees are exposed to wildfire smoke. This Barran Liebman E-Alert explains what employers need to know ahead of the August 9, 2021 effective date.
OHA Recommending Masks Indoors Regardless of Vaccination Status
The Oregon Health Authority is now recommending masks indoors regardless of vaccination status. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Nicole Elgin and Andrew Schpak explain the recommendation.
BOLI Issues Temporary Rule Regarding Use of Sick Time Due to Evacuations, Air Quality, & Extreme Hea
Oregon’s BOLI issued a temporary rule clarifying that employees may use sick time for official evacuations and public health emergencies relating to air quality and extreme heat events. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Amy Angel explains what is covered in the new rule.
Oregon OSHA Releases New Guidance on Heat-Illness Prevention & COVID-19 Restrictions Update
With record temperatures this past week, Oregon OSHA created an emergency rule to protect workers when working in elevated temperatures. This Barran Liebman E-Alert explains the provisions of this rule, as well as reminder of new COVID-19 mask and physical distancing guidance.
Here's What You Need to Know About OHA's Updated Guidance Regarding Vaccinated Individuals
What does the Oregon Health Authority's new guidance mean for your workplace? In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, find out what you need to know about the new guidance regarding vaccinated individuals.
OSHA Reverses Guidance on Recording Adverse Reactions to COVID-19 Vaccination
OSHA updated its guidance on when employers need to record adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccines. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, learn more about how the guidance changed, as well as the reasoning behind this reversal.
Covered Employers May Now Report 2021 EEO-1 Component 1 Data: Are You Covered?
This week, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission announced that the 2021 EEO-1 Component 1 data collection process is open. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert unpacks what is required of employers before the May 17 deadline.
SB 1514 Extends Pay Equity Exceptions
With temporary provisions to Oregon’s Equal Pay Act set to expire yesterday, fortunately for employers, the Oregon legislature just passed SB 1514. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert covers what this exemption means for employers with regards to hiring and retention bonuses.
Be Careful When Disciplining Employees for Complaining About Work on Social Media!
Private sector employers take note: be careful when disciplining employees for complaining about work on social media. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert explains how regardless of whether an employer is unionized, an employee’s social media post may be considered “protected concerted activity."
Current Status of Federal & State Vaccine Rules for Healthcare Employers
Oregon healthcare employers take note: the Oregon Health Authority filed a permanent rule keeping in place vaccination requirements in healthcare settings. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert discusses the compliance phases for covered employers.
Employers Must Notify Employees About the Earned Income Tax Credit
As a reminder, Oregon employers are required to notify employees that they may be eligible for earned income tax credit. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert explains the requirement as well as acceptable means of notification.
U.S. Supreme Court Stays OSHA ETS—Upholds CMS Vaccine Mandate
The U.S. Supreme Court just released two key decisions on vaccinations in the workplace. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert explains the decisions and what they mean for employers.
Stay on OSHA's Vaccine or Test Mandate Overturned
The stay on OSHA’s vaccine or test mandate has been overturned. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert explains what employers need to know as they plan for compliance and keep closely attuned to changing information from the federal courts.
How Employers Should Approach the Federal Vaccine Mandates That are Held Up in Courts
As court battles rage on for three federal vaccine mandates that are currently on hold, it is important for employers to understand their obligations. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert discusses how employers can prepare now as we await litigation surrounding the mandates.
Best Practices for Responding to Complaints & Conducting Remote Workplace Investigations
It's time to evaluate your policies and practices for responding to complaints and conducting remote workplace investigations. This Barran Liebman E-Alert discusses shifting workplace investigation considerations, as well as best practices for ensuring effective investigations when the need arises.
Vaccination, Testing, & Unions: Employers Must Negotiate with Unions over Parts of OSHA ETS
On Wednesday, 11/10, the NLRB GC’s Office outlined their position on employers’ bargaining obligations under OSHA’s recent Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on vaccinations. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert explains employer requirements specified in the NLRB’s Memo.
OSHA Releases COVID-19 Vaccination & Testing Rules for Employers with 100 or More Employees
Attention all employers with 100 or more employees: Released today, OSHA’s new rule will require employee COVID-19 vaccination or weekly testing regardless of industry. This Barran Liebman LLP E-Alert explains the rule as well as effective deadlines for employers.
Deadline for Federal Contractors to be Vaccinated Set for December 8
The Safer Federal Workforce Task Force issued guidance requiring federal contractors and subcontractors with a covered contract to follow a variety of workplace safety protocols, including vaccination. This Barran Liebman E-Alert explains what is required before the December 8 deadline.
New Oregon Unemployment Rule to Take Effect Next Week
The Oregon Employment Department’s new temporary unemployment benefit availability rule will take effect next week. This Barran Liebman E-Alert explains the rule’s clarifications.
Federal Executive Order Requires Private Businesses with 100 or More Employees to Mandate Vaccines
Last week, President Biden signed an executive order that required all private sector employers with 100 or more employees to mandate vaccines or weekly testing. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Amy Angel and Bruce Garrett explain the upcoming deadlines.
FDA Approves Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Triggering October 18, 2021 Vaccination Deadline for Some
With FDA approval for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine comes a deadline for Oregon healthcare workers, educators, and executive branch employees to get the vaccine. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Amy Angel, Bruce Garrett, and Julie Preciado discuss the upcoming October 18, 2021 deadline.
Masks Mandate Update Part 2: OHA Issues Temporary Rule on Statewide Mask Mandate
Mask Mandate Update Part 2: In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Amy Angel & Julie Preciado explain the OHA’s Temporary Rule on the Statewide Mask Mandate.
Masks Mandated Again Beginning August 13th in All Public Indoor Settings in Oregon
Beginning August 13th, masks will again be mandated in all Oregon public indoor settings. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Amy Angel and Julie Preciado explain the requirements.
Your Fall Employee Benefits Guide: A Wrap-Up of a Few of Our Favorites
From continuing remote work complexities, to hastily-drafted legislation, to a constant stream of guidance, there is much to note in the benefits arena. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Barran Liebman attorneys Jeff Robertson and Iris Tilley summarize key compliance considerations for employers.
BOLI Publishes Final Rules for Daily & Weekly Overtime in Oregon
The Oregon Health Authority adopted new safety and health measures for personnel in health care settings. This Barran Liebman E-Alert explains the vaccination or frequent testing requirements.
Oregon OSHA Issues Temporary Rules for Wildfire Smoke
Employers take note! Oregon OSHA issued temporary rules that apply when employees are exposed to wildfire smoke. This Barran Liebman E-Alert explains what employers need to know ahead of the August 9, 2021 effective date.
OHA Recommending Masks Indoors Regardless of Vaccination Status
The Oregon Health Authority is now recommending masks indoors regardless of vaccination status. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Nicole Elgin and Andrew Schpak explain the recommendation.
BOLI Issues Temporary Rule Regarding Use of Sick Time Due to Evacuations, Air Quality, & Extreme Hea
Oregon’s BOLI issued a temporary rule clarifying that employees may use sick time for official evacuations and public health emergencies relating to air quality and extreme heat events. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, Amy Angel explains what is covered in the new rule.
Oregon OSHA Releases New Guidance on Heat-Illness Prevention & COVID-19 Restrictions Update
With record temperatures this past week, Oregon OSHA created an emergency rule to protect workers when working in elevated temperatures. This Barran Liebman E-Alert explains the provisions of this rule, as well as reminder of new COVID-19 mask and physical distancing guidance.
Here's What You Need to Know About OHA's Updated Guidance Regarding Vaccinated Individuals
What does the Oregon Health Authority's new guidance mean for your workplace? In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, find out what you need to know about the new guidance regarding vaccinated individuals.
OSHA Reverses Guidance on Recording Adverse Reactions to COVID-19 Vaccination
OSHA updated its guidance on when employers need to record adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccines. In this Barran Liebman E-Alert, learn more about how the guidance changed, as well as the reasoning behind this reversal.