Mr. Birrer is a partner in the Firm's employment and litigation sections. His practice focuses primarily on issues related to labor, employment, and employee benefits. In addition to litigation, Mr. Birrer provides training, counseling, and advice regarding workforce matters. Mr. Birrer's litigation practice involves the representation of employers in state and federal courts involving claims of ERISA fiduciary violations, discrimination, wrongful termination, and noncompetition/trade secret violations. In Mr. Birrer's most recent trial, he represented a national securities firm and a broker in an ERISA fiduciary violation lawsuit alleging imprudent investments and prohibited transactions. After a bench trial, in January 2008, the district court entered judgment in favor of Mr. Birrer's clients and dismissed all claims with prejudice. Mr. Birrer's nonlitigation practice involves comprehensive counseling for employer clients. He has conducted investigations for employers concerning claims of sexual harassment, age discrimination, retaliation, and other issues. He has developed human resources policies and provided guidance on workplace issues ranging from employment applications to plant closures. |