Scope of Representation
Employee advice and counsel is guidance for individuals on a specific workplace issue, often before a formal legal dispute begins. I advise Connecticut employees on severance and separation agreements, non-compete and employment agreements, responses to HR investigations and performance improvement plans, and leave and wage questions under Connecticut and federal law.
Matters Handled
- Severance and separation agreement review and negotiation
- Non-compete and employment agreement enforceability
- HR investigations and performance improvement plan responses
- Leave and pay rights (CT FMLA, wage deductions, misclassification)
HR Investigations and Written Responses
I review proposed responses to HR inquiries, investigation notices, and performance improvement plans, including applicable deadlines and what to place in writing. Resignation and executed releases extinguish claims that might otherwise be asserted. I decline matters where the facts or deadlines do not support further action.
Reviewing Severance and Employment Agreements
Severance proposals exchange payment or benefits for a release of claims. I review the release scope, any continuing obligations, and whether federal age-discrimination rules require minimum review and revocation periods for workers age 40 and older. Connecticut courts enforce non-competes only when reasonable in time, geography, and scope; an overbroad restriction may be held unenforceable in full rather than rewritten. I review employment and non-compete agreements before execution and advise on enforceability after separation.
Understanding Leave and Pay Rights
Connecticut FMLA eligibility may begin after three months of employment under CGS § 31-51kk, not twelve. Misclassification and wage-deduction questions are governed by the Connecticut wage statutes and Department of Labor procedures.
Proceedings & Forums
A CHRO discrimination charge must be filed within 300 days of the act under CGS § 46a-82(e). The deadline is jurisdictional. Choice of CHRO, EEOC, or both, and the order of filing, should be made before any charge is filed.