Mediator & Arbitrator

• Feb 2023 - Present

Mediator & Arbitrator

• Jun 2015 - Present

Owner/Attorney

• Jul 2003 - Present

* Representation of businesses and individuals in employment litigation, with an emphasis on contractual, as well as labor and employment matters, particularly issues arising under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Georgia Trade Secrets Act. * Represent companies and individuals in complex business disputes, including cases involving breach of contract, misappropriation of trade secrets, commercial lease disputes, contract enforceability, and insurance coverage. * Consultation with businesses and individuals with regard to termination issues, such as drafting/negotiation of severance packages, employment contracts, continuation of benefits, and contractual and common law obligations upon termination. * Evaluation and drafting of employment agreements, including restrictive covenant agreements; reviewing and drafting policies and procedures/employee handbooks. * Representation of businesses in EEOC investigations and U.S. Department of Labor wage and hour audits. * Draft policies, procedures and contracts for businesses and strategize with clients to assess and evaluate risk, as well as review and negotiate third party contracts including lease agreements, vendor agreements and governmental contracts. * Executive and management training. Show less

Workplace Investigator/Trainer/Owner

• Feb 2012 - Present

Employment disputes can arise for any company. Investigations into employee complaints require efficiency and discretion to ensure an accurate analysis of the situation and minimal impact on the organization. With the goal of resolving institutional conflict, a properly handled investigation may help to avoid costly litigation and preserve the integrity of an organization. Investigations into employment complaints are complex, involving legal issues and specific protocols. In addition to being impartial and thorough, I am a well-trained investigator with a full understanding of employment law, issues surrounding confidentiality, the investigation process, and organizational documentation standards. In addition, I frequently provide executive and employee training on timely topics which include diversity and sensitivity training, contract enforceability, and negotiation. Show less

Adjunct Professor of Business Law and Business Communications

• 2016 - Present

Mediator/Registered Arbitrator

• Jan 2016 - Feb 2023

BAY Mediation and Arbitration Services, LLC is an alternative dispute resolution firm. We serve the ADR needs of attorneys throughout Georgia with high-quality mediation, arbitration and neutral case evaluation services. Our panel of neutrals is comprised of experienced litigators in various areas of expertise. In my role at BAY Mediation & Arbitration Services, I use creativity, patience and an in-depth knowledge of the applicable law to mediate cases involving employment litigation, civil rights litigation, restrictive covenants, trade secrets, contracts and torts, corporate litigation, insurance coverage, school law, government law, premises liability, and personal injury suits. I have had extensive experience representing both defendants and Plaintiffs in civil disputes including complex commercial disputes. I have been appointed by the Department of Labor to conduct wage and hour audits and have extensive experience conducting workplace investigations pursuant to both private agreement and via Consent Orders entered by the EEOC. These non-litigation experiences have allowed me to see both sides of employment issues and have contributed greatly to my success as a mediator. As a mediator with BAY Mediation & Arbitration Services, LLC, I work with clients to help resolve conflicts in a way that satisfies both parties, providing closure and avoiding a trial. In an effort to avoid the overwhelming costs and years of time involved with litigation, mediation brings both parties together to discuss alternative resolutions. The guidance of a patient, creative, and neutral mediator keeps the discussion on track and moving forward. Show less

Mediator

• Sep 2008 - Jan 2016

I am a mediator for Miles Mediation where I mediate all types of cases including employment law disputes, (including matters arising under Title VII, the FLSA, FMLA, ADA), restrictive covenant and other contract disputes, personal injury cases and premises liability matters. My background as an employment law litigator (representing both Plaintiffs and Defendants) and my experience handling personal injury and premises cases, many while with Chambers, Mabry, McClelland and Brooks, makes me particularly suited for this position. Show less

Consultant

• Jun 2010 - Nov 2012

Associate

• Jun 1998 - Jul 2003

Associate

• Dec 1994 - Jun 1998