Employment

Valerie Kraml
San Francisco
Senior Counsel

Our firm defends all types of industries in claims arising out of state and federal labor laws.  We have defended employers in matters ranging from class actions relating to minimum wage, overtime, meal breaks, rest breaks, wage statements, reimbursement, and pay upon termination.  We have also represented employers in wrongful termination, discrimination, and harassment suits, and work with clients to conduct internal workplace investigations when claims arise, or may arise.  We handle many non-litigation matters, particularly relating to transition issues.  For example, we are often called upon to examine employment agreements of departing or soon to be hired employees and independent contractors to examine the enforceability of particular provisions, and provide advice concerning such agreements.  We have also developed a specialized practice in cases challenging the classification of independent contractors by individuals claiming employee status. These matters include the successful defense of class actions alleging independent contractor misclassification.  We have been asked to present seminars for our employer clients’ human resources personnel to familiarize them with new legal developments and best practices.

Recent Successes

Represented a dentist who was sued for violating a non-competition agreement following the sale of a practice. We successfully compelled arbitration and obtained an arbitration award of over $100,000, including $24,000 remaining on a promissory note for the sale of the practice, attorneys’ fees and costs.

Successfully negotiated and documented termination and severance agreement between independent broker-dealer and president of company after communication through prior counsel had broken down and litigation was being initiated by both parties.

Represented former registered representatives in a number of “customer list” cases. The cases were resolved on terms favorable to our clients.

Represented commissioned salesperson in dispute with former employer over compensation term in employment contract. Resulted in favorable settlement for client at mediation.

Represented employers in claims of sexual harassment and wrongful termination. After obtaining summary judgment for the employer, the matter was resolved while it was on appeal.