Our Employment attorneys are skilled at managing the relationship between employee and employer. Whether a small start-up with limited staff or a giant manufacturer with thousands of people on the payroll, we have the tact and experience to find the best possible resolution for you.
What We Do
Our Employment Law Practice Group assists clients with a variety of day-to-day personnel and workplace issues, including:
- Allegations of discrimination and harassment under the Americans with Disabilities Act, Title VII, the Age Discrimination and Employment Act, and other anti-discrimination statutes
- Assisting and advising clients in Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and Department of Labor investigations and charges
- Claims of unpaid overtime and wages under the Fair Labor Standards Act and North Carolina Wage and Hour Act
- Drafting, review, and negotiation of contractual agreements between employers and employees, such as non-compete agreements and non-solicitation agreements
- Due diligence reviews of employer policies, procedures, and other handbooks to ensure that employers are complying with state and federal employment laws
- Trainings and seminars for clients to assist with risk management and mitigation
Our Experience
Our team of lawyers has experience representing clients in front of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, United States Department of Labor, North Carolina Department of Labor, and North Carolina Office of Administrative Hearings. If the matter cannot be resolved in one of these forums and a lawsuit is ultimately filed, you’ll have aggressive and experienced advocates on your side during the entire litigation process.
We continuously represent clients in front of the federal and state courts of North Carolina and we will zealously work to defend your best interests, whether that means conducting discovery, taking depositions, filing dispositive motions, taking your case to trial, or resolving it through negotiations or mediation.
Our Philosophy
The group is led by chair Benton Toups and includes a team of highly accomplished lawyers who are committed to delivering the highest quality legal service. They’ve earned an excellent reputation among employers across North Carolina by:
- Being accessible and responsive to client needs
- Always keeping clients informed
- Knowing and understanding each individual workplace
- Watching budgets closely
- Providing excellent client service and value
Contact Us Today For More Information!
The Employment Law Practice Group covers all of North Carolina from our offices in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Wilmington. To contact an attorney, call Benton Toups in our Wilmington office, Patrick Flanagan in our Charlotte office, and Marshall Wall in our Raleigh office.
Most Recent Posts
Pregnant Workers Fairness Act: Does It Actually Fill in the Gaps?
On August 11, 2023, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) for enabling rules… Read More
CSH Law Attorneys Receive Best Lawyers® “Ones to Watch” Recognition
Five attorneys from Cranfill Sumner LLP (CSH Law) were recently named among the Best Lawyers® 2024 Ones to Watch.… Read More
32 CSH Law Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2024
Thirty-two attorneys from Cranfill Sumner LLP (CSH Law) were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2024.… Read More
After Supreme Court’s Affirmative Action Decision, Attorneys General Set Their Sights on Employment DEI Programs
The Supreme Court issued a major decision at the end of June when it outlawed affirmative action for colleges in… Read More
Pat Flanagan Certified as Superior Court Mediator
Cranfill Sumner LLP today announced that Pat Flanagan recently completed training for Mediator Certification and is now a Certified Superior Court Mediator with the North Carolina Dispute Resolution Commission.… Read More
The Incomplete Guide to Religious and Title VII Accommodations
The Supreme Court’s decision in Groff v. Dejoy is a consequential case for employers facing religious accommodation requests. The Court… Read More
Burden of Proof: Fourth Circuit Reaffirms that Employees Must Show Discriminatory Intent
One of the most important decisions in employment discrimination law this year remains the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision… Read More
The War on Noncompete Agreements: NLRB General Counsel Says the NLRA Forbids Them
On May 30, 2023, Jennifer Abruzzo, General Counsel for the National Labor Relations Board (“NLRB”), issued a memorandum arguing that… Read More
The End of the COVID-19 Pandemic Declaration and Impact on EEO Laws
The Biden administration announced the end of the COVID-19 pandemic declaration on May 11, 2023. While the news has been… Read More
Vince Eisinger Files Amicus Brief in Texas Supreme Court
Vince Eisinger recently filed an amicus brief in the Supreme Court of Texas. … Read More
Benton Toups Presents to Lower Cape Fear Human Resources Association
Benton Toups served as a panelist for the 2023 Attorney Panel at the Lower Cape Fear Human Resources Association on Feb. 21. The event was held at the Hampton Inn Wilmington-Medical Park.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Webinar Series Features Employment Law Panel
On Feb. 16, Cranfill Sumner LLP hosted an Employment Law Panel as part of its webinar series. The panel featured Benton Toups, Ryan Bolick, Vince Eisinger, and Georgia Malik.… Read More
CBD Oil & Its Implication on Drug Policies in the Workplace – 2023 Update
2023 UPDATE Since our last update on CBD Oil and its implication in the workplace, there have been a few… Read More
13 Cranfill Sumner LLP Attorneys Named to 2023 North Carolina Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Lists
Cranfill Sumner LLP announced that 13 of its attorneys have been selected for inclusion in the 2023 North Carolina Super Lawyers and 2023 North Carolina Rising Stars lists.
… Read More
The Federal Trade Commission Announces Proposed Rule Eliminating Most Non-Compete Provisions in Employment Agreements
On January 5, 2023, the Federal Trade Commission announced a proposed rule eliminating most non-compete provisions in employment agreements. The… Read More
Cranfill Sumner LLP Attorneys Listed Among 2023 Legal Elite
Twelve Cranfill Sumner LLP attorneys were recognized by Business North Carolina magazine as part of the magazine’s Legal Elite program. … Read More
What Lies Ahead? – Predictions for Employers in 2023
While issues like PPP loans, the CARES Act, and vaccination mandates are largely in the rearview mirror, the workplace looks… Read More
Our Top 10 Resources of 2022
Throughout the year, Cranfill Sumner LLP’s attorneys work diligently to bring the most up-to-date information on North Carolina legal updates… Read More
25 CSH Law Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2023
Twenty-five attorneys from Cranfill Sumner LLP (CSH Law) were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2023.… Read More
Elizabeth Stephens Joins Cranfill Sumner LLP
Cranfill Sumner LLP today announced that Elizabeth Stephens has joined the firm’s Raleigh office as an associate attorney. She focuses her practice on municipal law, labor and employment matters, and general civil litigation.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Hosts Employment Law Webinar
On April 21, Cranfill Sumner LLP hosted the Employment Law Roundtable webinar featuring presentations from Janelle Lyons, Q. Shanté Martin, and Marshall Wall.… Read More
Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act of 2021 to Be Signed by President Biden
On February 7th, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 4445, known as the “Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault… Read More
Benton Toups Participates in LCFHRA Panel
Benton Toups, a Partner at Cranfill Sumner LLP, participated in the Jan. 18, 2022 Virtual Attorney Panel hosted by the Lower Cape Fear Human Resources Association.… Read More
11 Cranfill Sumner LLP Attorneys Named to 2022 North Carolina Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Lists
Cranfill Sumner LLP announced that 11 of its attorneys have been selected for inclusion in the 2022 North Carolina Super Lawyers and 2022 North Carolina Rising Stars lists.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner LLP Attorneys Listed Among 2022 Legal Elite
Eight Cranfill Sumner LLP attorneys were recognized by Business North Carolina magazine as part of the magazine’s Legal Elite program. … Read More
Benton Toups Featured in NC Lawyers Weekly Power List
Benton Toups has been featured in the NC Lawyers Weekly 2021 Power List for Employment Law. This is the inaugural edition of the list.… Read More
EEOC Issues Updated Guidance to Employers for COVID-19 Related Issues
EEOC Issues Updated Guidance to Employers for COVID-19 Related Issues In the wake of the new Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS)… Read More
Details of Biden’s Mandatory Vaccine Plan Published
The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published a new emergency temporary standard (“ETS”) today, effective immediately, with compliance… Read More
Cranfill Sumner LLP Offices Ranked as Metropolitan Tier 1 Firm in “Best Law Firms” List
Cranfill Sumner LLP today announced that the 2022 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” ranked the firm as a Metropolitan Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3 law firm in multiple practice areas.… Read More
South Carolina Supreme Court Issues Landmark Decision Regarding Contract Workers
The South Carolina Supreme Court recently issued a landmark decision, Keene v. CNA Holdings, LLC (August 11, 2021), narrowing the… Read More
Cranfill Sumner LLP Attorneys Assist in Publication of “Guide to NC Hospitality Law”
The North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association has released the “Guide to NC Hospitality Law.”… Read More
Benton Toups Speaks at Fayetteville SHRM Meeting
Benton Toups spoke at the Sept. 22 Chapter Meeting of the Fayetteville Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).… Read More
Cranfill Sumner LLP Awards 2021 Core Value Awards
Cranfill Sumner LLP (CSH Law) today announced that four employees were honored with the 2021 Core Value Awards. The honorees are Richard Boyette, Pat Flanagan, Sam LaRoche and Charlotte Neville.… Read More
26 CSH Law Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2022
Twenty-six attorneys from Cranfill Sumner LLP (CSH Law) were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2022.… Read More
Disability Discrimination: Damages
Over the last couple of months, we have been talking about what qualifies as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act… Read More
COVID-19 and the Workplace: Where are we now?
OSHA and the EEOC have recently released updated COVID-19 protocols following the CDC’s guidelines toward vaccinated individuals working in the… Read More
Zack Anstett Presents Employment Law Clinic for Legal Aid
On June 10, Zack Anstett presented at an “Employee Rights” Clinic for Legal Aid of North Carolina.… Read More
What is a Reasonable Accommodation in the Workplace?
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers with 15 or more employees are prohibited from discriminating against a qualified… Read More
Marshall Wall Presents During FDCC Podcast
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The American Rescue Plan: Extension of Tax Credits for Employers
On March 11, 2021, President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan (Plan) into law. Among other things, the Plan provides… Read More
What is a Disability Under the Americans With Disabilities Act
The Americans with Disabilities Act (the “ADA”) seeks to eliminate unwarranted discrimination against disabled individuals in order to guarantee those… Read More
President Biden Takes First Action for $15/Hour Minimum Wage
On January 22, 2021, President Joe Biden issued an Executive Order that takes steps toward a $15/hour minimum wage for… Read More
Benton Toups to Present at Employment Law Panel
On Jan. 19, Benton Toups, Chair of the Cranfill Sumner Employment Law Practice Group, served as a presenter for an attorney panel discussion for the 2020 Employment Law Year in Review. The panel addressed questions from the audience about the unprecedented year we just completed as well as about what we can expect as we transition into a new year, a new administration and in many ways a whole new world.… Read More
14 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Named to 2021 North Carolina Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Lists
Today Cranfill Sumner proudly announced that 14 of its attorneys have been selected for inclusion in the 2021 North Carolina Super Lawyers and 2021 North Carolina Rising Stars lists.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Listed Among 2021 Legal Elite
Five Cranfill Sumner attorneys were recognized by Business North Carolina magazine as part of the magazine’s Legal Elite program. … Read More
Can Employers Require a COVID-19 Vaccine?
Plexiglass workstations, mandatory mask policies, and working from home could all become a distant memory once a COVID-19 vaccine becomes… Read More
Pat Flanagan Presents at Labor and Employment Law Seminar
On Oct. 30, Pat Flanagan spoke at the 36th Annual North Carolina/South Carolina Labor & Employment Law Program, which was presented by the North Carolina Bar Association. The day-long webcast featured attorneys discussing a wide range of topics about labor and employment law.… Read More
Paul Gessner Joins Cranfill Sumner Raleigh Office
Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) today announced that Paul Gessner has joined the firm’s Raleigh office as Of Counsel. Gessner will join the Municipalities and Public Entities Practice Group and the Employment Law Practice Group.… Read More
New Proposed Rule from the EEOC Presents Possible Changes to the Conciliation Process
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) published a Notice of Proposed Rule Making in which it has proposed changes to the… Read More
How to Handle Politics in 2020
The past eight months have been unique to say the least. In a matter of weeks, employees started working from home,… Read More
Face Coverings in North Carolina
On September 1, 2020, Governor Roy Cooper issued Executive Order No. 163. This Executive Order, effective on September 4, 2020, will… Read More
North Carolina Moves to Phase 2.5
On September 1, 2020, Governor Roy Cooper issued Executive Order No. 163. This Order became effective on September 4, 2020, and… Read More
Benton Toups Speaks About Employment Law on LCFHRA Webinar
Benton Toups, a Partner at Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner), presented at the “Employment Law 101” Virtual Meeting of the Lower Cape Fear Human Resources Association. The webinar was held Aug. 26.… Read More
27 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2021
Twenty-seven attorneys from Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2021 (Copyright 2020 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC).… Read More
Benton Toups Leads NCRLA Webinar
Benton Toups led the “A Whole New World – Predicting Employment Claims in the Wake of COVID-19” webinar on Aug. 19. It was produced by the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association and Cranfill Sumner LLP.… Read More
President Trump Takes Executive Action Against COVID-19
On August 8, 2020, President Donald Trump signed one Executive Order and three Presidential Memoranda to boost economic aid as… Read More
Does an Employee Who Contracts COVID-19 at Work from a Co-Employee Have a Legal Remedy?
As more employers begin to open their doors and their employees return to work, unanticipated and unusual issues are likely… Read More
Benton Toups Presents PLAN Webinar
Benton Toups, a Partner at Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner), was a featured presenter at the “A Whole New World – Predicting Employment Claims in the Wake of COVID-19” webinar presented by PLAN.… Read More
Paid Parental Leave for Summer Camp Closure
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (the “FFCRA”) signed into law on March 18, 2020, established the Emergency Paid Sick… Read More
Pat Flanagan Joins NCADA Board of Directors
Pat Flanagan, an attorney at Cranfill Sumner LLP, has been elected to the board of directors for the North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys (NCADA). Pat’s term begins in June 2020 and continues for three years.… Read More
Benton Toups Featured in NCRLA Magazine
“Furlough vs. layoff: Deciding between the two,” an article by Benton Toups, was featured in At Your Service, a publication of the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association (NCRLA). The article appears in the Spring 2020 edition of the publication.… Read More
COVID-19 Update: Requirements for Personal Care, Grooming, and Tattoo Businesses During the Pandemic
Personal care, grooming, and tattoo businesses must follow the operating requirements spelled out in Executive Order No. 141. Failure to… Read More
What Happened to Essential Businesses? The COVID-19 Recovery Act and Limited Immunity during Phase 2
As businesses adapt in the wake of the pandemic, they may face legal action by customers or employees related to… Read More
EEOC Says NO to Mandatory Antibody Testing
On June 16, 2020, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) updated its “What You Should Know About COVID-19 and… Read More
U.S. Supreme Court Rules that Title VII Prevents Discrimination against Gay and Transgender Employees
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is the most sweeping anti-discrimination law ever enacted in the United… Read More
Marshall Wall Discusses Employment and COVID-19 on WRAL Webinar
Marshall Wall, Managing Partner of Cranfill Sumner & Hartzog LLP, participated in the “Here To Help: Local Business Virtual Conference Series” webinar on May 28. Marshall served on a panel that discussed “Emerging Legal and Insurance Issues related to COVID-19.”… Read More
SBA Releases Loan Forgiveness Application: What You Need to Know
The June 5, 2020 update to the PPP Flexibility Act can be found here. On May 15, 2020, the Small… Read More
Bringing Employees Back – Job Offers to Maximize PPP Loan Forgiveness
Bringing Employees Back – Job Offers to Maximize PPP Loan Forgiveness By Benton Toups and Zack Anstett The June 5,… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Launches COVID-19 Response Team
Cranfill Sumner & Hartzog LLP (Cranfill Sumner) announced the creation of its COVID-19 Response Team. The team is comprised of… Read More
Second Round of CARES Act Funding
In less than two weeks, the Paycheck Protection Program exhausted its initial $349 billion funding. Shortly thereafter, Congressional leaders began talking… Read More
The Checklist for Getting Your CARES Act Loan Forgiven
You probably spent numerous hours meticulously making sure that all of your numbers were right. You heard a lot about… Read More
Federal Reserve Steps In With $2.3 Trillion
On April 9, 2020, the Federal Reserve (the “Fed”) announced that it will provide $2.3 trillion in loans to support… Read More
The FFCRA, CARES Act, and Your Business: Where are we now?
A lot has happened since the FFCRA and CARES Act passed. You have likely had to deliver hard news to your… Read More
Benton Toups Named Chair of the Cranfill Sumner Employment Law Practice Group
Benton Toups, an attorney with Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner), has been named the Chair of the Cranfill Sumner Employment Law Practice Group.… Read More
The CARES Act, Forgivable Loans, and the Application Process: What You Need to Know Before April 3, 2020
Under the CARES Act, signed into law by President Trump on March 27, 2020, the Paycheck Protection Program authorizes $349… Read More
Small Businesses and Health Care Providers Take Note
DOL Issues New Guidance on Health Care Provider and Small Business Exemptions from New Paid Leave Laws The Families First Coronavirus… Read More
Update About Your Economic Injury Disaster Loan Application Submitted to the U.S. Small Business Administration
On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed the CARES Act that, among a host of other things, provides relief to… Read More
COVID-19 and Compliance with Open Meeting Laws: Going Virtual
*Updated information about Remote Public Hearings can be found on a June 11, 2020 blog “Remote Public Meetings: COVID-19’s Impact… Read More
The CARES Act – Unemployment Insurance and Rebate Checks
On Friday, March 27, 2020, the United States House of Representatives passed the, already Senate-approved, Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic… Read More
FAQs on Loans to Businesses Under the Economic Stimulus Bill: The CARES Act
Late Wednesday night, on March 25, 2020, the Senate passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, or “CARES… Read More
COVID-19: Balancing Employee Safety and Privacy
As we face uncertain times amid the COVID-19 pandemic, a question on the top of many employers’ and employees’ minds… Read More
Expanded FMLA Leave and Paid Sick Leave
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act is Signed Into Law On March 18, 2020, President Trump signed into law the… Read More
COVID-19: FAQs for Employers
We are in uncharted territory. Life in America, and many other places around the world, is essentially on hold. Children are out… Read More
Update on Joint Employer Status
On March 16, 2020, the Department of Labor’s final rule updating regulations on joint employer status under the Fair Labor… Read More
11 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Named to 2020 North Carolina Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Lists
Today Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) proudly announced that 11 of its attorneys have been selected for inclusion in the 2020 North Carolina Super Lawyers and 2020 North Carolina Rising Stars lists.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Listed Among 2020 Legal Elite
Seven Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) attorneys were recognized by Business North Carolina magazine as part of the magazine’s Legal Elite program.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Offices Ranked as Metropolitan Tier 1 Firm in “Best Law Firms” List
Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) today announced that the 2020 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” ranked the firm as a Metropolitan Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3 law firm in multiple practice areas.… Read More
Jack Wright Joins Cranfill Sumner Charlotte Office
Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) today announced that John “Jack” Wright has joined its Charlotte office as an associate attorney. He focuses his practice in the areas of employment and municipal law. … Read More
Zack Anstett Featured on NCBA Blog
Zack Anstett, an attorney at Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner), recently authored an article for the Labor and Employment Law section of the North Carolina Bar Association.… Read More
Benton Toups Presents to Lower Cape Fear HR Association
Benton Toups served as the featured presenter of the September meeting of the Lower Cape Fear HR Association. The meeting was held Sept. 17 at the Hampton Inn-Medical Park in Wilmington.… Read More
31 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2020
Thirty-one attorneys from Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020(Copyright 2019 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC).… Read More
Invalidating Long-Standing Fourth Circuit Precedent, U.S. Supreme Court Holds that Title VII’s Charge Filing Requirement is Procedural, Not Jurisdictional
Before initiating a lawsuit under Title VII*, a complainant must first file a charge of discrimination with the U.S. Equal… Read More
Stephanie Webster Re-Joins Cranfill Sumner Charlotte Office
Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) today announced that Stephanie Webster has re-joined the firm’s Charlotte office in an Of Counsel position. Webster will serve as an attorney in the Employment Law and Municipal & Public Entities Practice Groups.… Read More
Ryan Bolick and Meredith FitzGibbon Hamilton Obtained Summary Judgment
Ryan Bolick (Charlotte) and Meredith Fitzgibbon Hamilton (Charlotte) obtained summary judgment in the employer’s favor dismissing claims of age discrimination… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Featured in NCADA’s “The Resource”
Alesha Brown and Michael B. Cohen are featured in the May 30 edition of The Resource, a publication of the North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys.… Read More
Katie Hartzog Discusses Employment Law in Panel Discussion
Katie Weaver Hartzog participated in an Employment Law panel discussion at the Campbell University School of Law on March 28. The panel was sponsored by the Business Law Association at Campbell Law and included five legal professionals discussing current issues faced by employers and businesses regarding compliance with state and federal employment laws.… Read More
Here We Go Again: New Changes Proposed to the Department of Labor’s Overtime Regulations for “White Collar” Exemptions
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is seeking to change the criteria for so-called “white collar” exemptions, the most common… Read More
Katie Barber-Jones Presents About Workplace Harassment
Katie Barber-Jones presented “History repeats itself. Workplace harassment and discrimination” at the recent 2019 Winter Workshop, an event sponsored by the North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys. The workshop was held at The Solution Center in Durham on Jan. 25.… Read More
21 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Named to 2019 North Carolina Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Lists
Today Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) proudly announced that 21 of its attorneys have been selected for inclusion in the 2019 North Carolina Super Lawyers and 2019 North Carolina Rising Stars lists.… Read More
Employer liability for workers: The Independent Contractor vs. Employee Distinction
The latest Insights article by Deedee Gasch discusses the difference between employees and independent contractors and the implications those definitions… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Listed Among 2019 Legal Elite
Six Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) attorneys were recognized by Business North Carolina magazine as part of the magazine’s Legal Elite program.… Read More
An Employer’s Responsibilities During a Natural Disaster
With Hurricane Florence making landfall in North Carolina, our firm is frequently receiving questions from employers regarding their responsibilities to… Read More
32 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2019
Thirty-two attorneys from Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2019 (Copyright 2018 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC).… Read More
Pat Flanagan to Chair NCADA Employment Law Section
Pat Flanagan, Chair of the Employment Law Practice Group at Cranfill Sumner LLP, was recently appointed to serve as Employment Law Section Chair of the North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Welcomes New Paralegals to Raleigh Office
Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) today announced that Rachel Blake and Maggie Liberatore have joined the firm’s Raleigh office as paralegals. … Read More
Significant Opinion Affecting Governmental Employers
North Carolina Supreme Court recognizes a new claim in favor of governmental employees pursuant to the North Carolina Constitution The… Read More
Employee or Independent Contractor?
A Hot Question for 2018 due to The North Carolina Employee Fair Classification Act Employee misclassification is not a new… Read More
CSH Attorneys Receive AV Rating From Martindale-Hubbell
Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) today announced that Dan Hartzog, Jr. and Benton Toups have received an AV® Rating from Martindale-Hubbell.… Read More
LCFHRA Publishes Article by Benton Toups and Katie Terry
An article by Benton Toups and Katie Terry was recently published in the January newsletter of the Lower Cape Fear Human Resource Association (LCFHRA).… Read More
20 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Named to 2018 N.C. Super Lawyers and Rising Star Lists
Today Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) proudly announced that 20 of its attorneys have been selected for inclusion in the 2018 North Carolina Super Lawyers and 2018 North Carolina Rising Stars lists.… Read More
Virginia Wooten to Serve on Charlotte Chamber Board of Directors
Virginia Wooten, an attorney based in the Charlotte office of Cranfill Sumner LLP, has been elected to serve on the Charlotte Chamber’s Board of Directors Class of 2020. Virginia’s term began Jan. 1, 2018 and ends in 2020.
… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Listed Among 2018 Legal Elite
Seven Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) attorneys were recognized by Business North Carolina magazine as part of the magazine’s Legal Elite program.… Read More
Republican-Majority NLRB Closes out 2017 With A Bang!
The now Republican majority on the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) was on a roll in December and is not… Read More
Benton Toups Featured in Greater Wilmington Business Journal
Benton Toups, Vice Chair of the Employment Law Practice Group at Cranfill Sumner LLP, was recently quoted in the Greater Wilmington Business Journal. In “Harassment In The Spotlight,” Benton discusses legal issues surrounding sexual harassment in the workplace.… Read More
Dan Hartzog, Jr. to Present at UNC Law Symposium
On Nov. 4, Dan Hartzog, Jr. will be a featured presenter at the North Carolina Law Review Symposium. The event’s topic is “Badge Cams as Data and Deterrent: Law Enforcement, the Public, and the Press in the Age of the Digital Video,” and Dan will be providing insight from his role as the town attorney for Hope Mills, N.C. Dan will speaking as part of a panel discussion on the use of body cameras by law enforcement agencies in North Carolina.… Read More
NC Employment Law Distinctions Every Employer Should Know
In North Carolina, employers must not only understand and comply with federal labor and employment laws, but also ensure compliance… Read More
33 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2018
Thirty-three attorneys from Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2018 (Copyright 2017 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Eight attorneys were selected for inclusion in the list for the first time.… Read More
Katie Terry Joins Cranfill Sumner Raleigh Office
Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) today announced that Katie Terry has joined the firm’s Raleigh office as an associate attorney with the Education Law and Employment Law practice groups.… Read More
Fourth Circuit Articulates New Standard for “Joint Employers”
Until recently, there has been inconsistency as to what constitutes a “joint employer” under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).… Read More
Update: DOL Overtime Rule Blocked
Last week we posted a reminder that the new overtime rule was going into effect on December 1st. Well, it… Read More
Meredith FitzGibbon Joins Cranfill Sumner Charlotte Office
Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) today announced that Meredith FitzGibbon has joined its Charlotte office as an Associate Attorney. FitzGibbon focuses her practice on civil litigation, with an emphasis on employment law and defense of municipalities and public entities.… Read More
New Overtime Rules are Less Than a Month Away – Are You Ready?
Unless you have had your head in the sand, you know that the U.S. Department of Labor (“DOL”) is changing… Read More
Katie Hartzog Presents at NCRLA Expo
Katie Weaver Hartzog, a partner in the Raleigh office of Cranfill Sumner LLP, presented the “Top Reasons Employers Get Into Legal Trouble with Employees” at the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association (NCRLA) Expo on Aug. 30. … Read More
26 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2017
Twenty-six attorneys from Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2017 (Copyright 2016 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC).… Read More
Stephanie Webster Joins Cranfill Sumner Charlotte Office
Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) today announced that Stephanie Webster has joined the firm’s Charlotte office. Webster will serve as an attorney in the Employment Law and Municipal & Public Entities Practice Groups.… Read More
Tips for Hiring Your Seasonal Help
Stephanie Gaston Poley and Virginia Wooten are featured in the July 2016 edition of At Your Service, the magazine for the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association. Their article, “Tips for Hiring Your Seasonal Help,” explains the legal issues that must be considered when hiring seasonal staff. … Read More
Dan Hartzog Jr. Named Hope Mills Town Attorney
Dan Hartzog, Jr., a municipal and employment law attorney at Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner), has been named the town attorney for Hope Mills, N.C. Hartzog will assume the town attorney duties on July 1, 2016 in addition to maintaining his current practice at Cranfill Sumner.… Read More
Pat Flanagan Presents Employment Law Tips for Hospitality Industry
On June 14, Pat Flanagan presented “10 Ways to Get Sued & How to Avoid Them” at the Charlotte Employment Law Session meeting of the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association.… Read More
Summary Judgment In Wrongful Termination Case
DAN HARTZOG JR. (Raleigh) obtained summary judgment in a wrongful termination case involving former sanitation workers employed with a Town. The… Read More
UPDATE: DOL Issues Final Overtime Rule
On May 18, 2016, the U.S. Department of Labor (“DOL”) issued the highly anticipated final overtime rule for white collar… Read More
The Pending Legal Landscape of Labor & Employment Law
“The Pending Legal Landscape of Labor & Employment Law,” an Insights article by Kara Gansmann, was published in today’s edition… Read More
Dismissal of Non-Resident Defendant in Non-Compete Case
Stephanie Gaston Poley (Raleigh) obtained dismissal of a case for lack of personal jurisdiction where plaintiffs sued a former employee who… Read More
Directed Verdict for 3PL Company in Non-Compete, Conspiracy, Unfair and Deceptive Practices Case
Stephanie Gaston Poley (Raleigh) obtained directed verdict for a third party logistics company in the North Carolina Business Court, where plaintiffs… Read More
Cranfill Sumner to Host CE By the Sea
On May 20, the Wilmington office of Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) will host CE By the Sea. The half-day seminar will be held 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Cranfill Sumner office in Wilmington. Complimentary CE Credit is available for Workers’ Comp Adjusters (3 hours) and Human Resources Professionals (3 hours – pending).… Read More
HB2’s Impact on Private and Public Employers: What You Haven’t Heard in the News
“HB2’s Impact on Private and Public Employers: What You Haven’t Heard in the News,” an Insights article by Kara Gansmann… Read More
Warning, Sharp Curve Ahead: Changes to the Department of Labor’s Overtime Regulations May Be Fast Approaching
As you may already know, the U.S. Department of Labor (“DOL”) is seeking to change the rules on overtime pay… Read More
The Impact of the North Carolina House Bill 2 on Public and Private Employers
Many employers have heard the buzz about the recently enacted North Carolina legislation commonly referred to as “HB 2” and… Read More
17 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Named to 2016 North Carolina Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Lists
Cranfill Sumner LLP (CSH) is proud to announce that 16 of its attorneys have been selected for inclusion in the 2016 North Carolina Super Lawyers and 2016 North Carolina Rising Stars lists.… Read More
Two CSH Attorneys Featured in Wrightsville Beach Magazine
Benton Toups and Patrick Mincey, attorneys in the Wilmington office of Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner), are featured in the Men in Business section of the latest edition of Wrightsville Beach Magazine.… Read More
Toups Recovers $75,000 for Unlawfully Terminated Employee
Benton Toups was able to obtain recovery of $75,000 on behalf of a former employee of a medical clinic who was unlawfully terminated from her employment after complaining to her supervisor about a shortage in her paycheck.… Read More
Toups Dismissal for Employee Sued by Employer for Breach of Noncompete and Misappropriation of Trade Secrets
Benton Toups represented a former employee of a software company in a lawsuit by his former employer alleging misappropriation of trade secrets and breach of a covenant not to compete. … Read More
28 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2016
Twenty-eight attorneys from Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2016.… Read More
Harassment Claim Dismissed Based on Governmental Immunity
Katie Weaver Hartzog obtained dismissal of plaintiffs’ state law tort claims based on governmental immunity and failure to state a claim where plaintiffs alleged they were sexually harassed by their supervisor.… Read More
No Facts to Support Hostile Work Environment Claim
Dan Hartzog, Jr. obtained dismissal of a federal lawsuit alleging that plaintiff was subjected to a hostile work environment in retaliation for protected speech. The majority of allegations were conclusory and not supported by proper factual allegations.… Read More
Hartzog Successfully Defends Town Facing 20 Claims by Four Officers
Dan Hartzog, Jr. obtained dismissal of all claims in a lawsuit filed by four former police officers for a Town. The case received significant media attention, due in part to the involvement of a Superior Court Judge.… Read More
All Claims Against City Dismissed in Lawsuit Brought by Former Police Officer
Dan Hartzog, Jr. obtained dismissal of all claims in a lawsuit brought by a former police officer for a City. The officer had been fired from the City for attending court for a personal matter while on duty, arriving late on three occasions, and failing to prepare proper paperwork for a warrant before submitting a statement saying the warrant had been obtained.… Read More
Bolick Prevails on State Personnel Act Claim
Ryan Bolick obtained summary judgment in a State Personnel Act claim arising out of an alleged wrongful termination and breach of contract. … Read More
Toups Doubles Severance for Employee of Bankrupt Company
Benton Toups represented an employee of a publicly traded company who was denied promised severance pay when the company suddenly closed its doors and declared bankruptcy. … Read More
Toups Obtains $69,000 judgment for Self-insured, ERISA Qualified Employee Benefit Plan
Benton Toups was able to obtain a $69,000 judgment on behalf of a self-insured, ERISA qualified employee benefit plan in an action filed in the Eastern District of North Carolina against a plan participant.… Read More
Hartzog Prevails on Summary Judgment in Wrongful Termination Suit
Katie Weaver Hartzog won a motion for summary judgment on behalf of a behavioral health service entity on plaintiff’s claims for wrongful termination in violation of public policy.… Read More
Hartzog, Jr. Obtains Defense Ruling for Client Facing Retaliation Claim
Hartzog, Jr. Obtains Defense Ruling for Client Facing Retaliation Claim… Read More
Hartzog, Jr. Obtains Dismissal for Town Client Facing Federal Suit
Hartzog, Jr. Obtains Dismissal for Town Client Facing Federal Suit… Read More
Bolick Successfully Defends Appeal for Corporate Defendant
Bolick Successfully Defends Appeal for Corporate Defendant… Read More
Hartzog, Jr. Obtains Dismissal for Community College in Breach of Contract Case
Hartzog, Jr. Obtains Dismissal for Community College in Breach of Contract Case… Read More
Toups Defends Long Term Care Facility Facing Race Discrimination Claim
Toups Defends Long Term Care Facility Facing Race Discrimination Claim… Read More
Dan Hartzog, Jr. Obtains Dismissal in Age Discrimination Suit Dismissed for Client
Dan Hartzog, Jr. Obtains Dismissal in Age Discrimination Suit Dismissed for Client… Read More
Katie Hartzog Obtains Summary Judgment for City Client
Katie Hartzog Obtains Summary Judgment for City Client… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Defend Fire Department Against Charges of Employer Misconduct
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Defend Fire Department Against Charges of Employer Misconduct… Read More
REDA, Wrongful discharge, disability, discrimination and Constitutional violations brought by former employee, summary judgment obtained
REDA, Wrongful discharge, disability, discrimination and Constitutional violations brought by former employee, summary judgment obtained… Read More
Part 2: Look-Back, Employers, for Those Variable Hour Employees
Part 2 of “An Employer’s Basic Primer to the Affordable Care Act” was published on the Greater Wilmington Business Journal’s Insights page today.… Read More
An Employer’s Basic Primer to the Affordable Care Act
The June 1 online edition of the Wilmington Business Journal featured “An Employer’s Basic Primer to the Affordable Care Act,” written by Kara Gansmann.… Read More
N-L-R-Be Careful With Employee Handbooks
Benton Toups, the Vice-Chair of the Employment Law practice group at Cranfill Sumner LLP, was featured in the May 15 online edition of the Greater Wilmington Business Journal.… Read More
Bolick Wins Summary Judgment for County Facing Claims of Sexual Harassment & Wrongful Termination
Ryan Bolick obtained summary judgment on behalf of a county in the Middle District of North Carolina dismissing Plaintiff’s Title VII claims for sexual harassment and state claims of wrongful termination, intentional infliction of emotional distress.… Read More
10 Reasons Employers Get Into Legal Trouble With Employees
On May 1, an Insights article by Benton Toups was featured in the online edition of the Greater Wilmington Business Journal. … Read More
Workers’ Compensation Law – The Very Basics
An Insights article by Benton Toups was featured in the April 15 online edition of the Greater Wilmington Business Journal. … Read More
Severance Agreements And The Quest For The Amicable Breakup
Benton Toups, Vice-Chair of the Employment Law practice group at Cranfill Sumner & Hartzog LLP, recently authored “Severance Agreements And… Read More
Patrick Flanagan to Speak at RMS Regional Spring Meetings
Patrick Flanagan will speak on employment law issues at the Risk Management Services Regional Spring Meetings. … Read More
Benton Toups Authors Employment-At-Will: What Does It Mean For Your Business?
Benton Toups authored “Employment-At-Will: What Does It Mean For Your Business?” for the online version of the Greater Wilmington Business Journal.… Read More
Benton Toups Authors – Employee Or Independent Contractor – A Critical Distinction
Benton Toups’s Employment Law article is featured in the Greater Wilmington Business Journal. Benton is the Vice-Chair of the Employment Law practice group at Cranfill Sumner.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Participate in 4ALL Statewide Service Day
Eleven attorneys from Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) participated in the North Carolina Bar Association’s 8th Annual 4ALL Statewide Service Day on Friday, March 6. … Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys to Present at “Employment Law Beyond the Basics” Seminar
Cranfill Sumner attorneys present at the “Employment Law Beyond the Basics” Seminar.… Read More
Non-Competition Agreements – Are They Enforceable?
Benton Toups, Vice-Chair of Employment Law Practice Group at Cranfill Sumner, authored a GWBJ article entitled “Non-Competition Agreements – Are They Enforceable?” … Read More
Benton Toups’ Insight Article: Myth-Busting And The FLSA
Benton Toups, the Vice-Chair of the Employment Law practice group at Cranfill Sumner, authored an Insights article entitled “Myth-Busting and the FLSA” in the GWBJ.… Read More
20 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Named to 2015 North Carolina Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Lists
Cranfill Sumner announced that 20 of its attorneys have been selected for inclusion in the 2015 North Carolina Super Lawyers and North Carolina Rising Stars lists.… Read More
Benton Toups to Speak at 2015 Lawyer Panel
Benton Toups, Vice-Chair of the Employment Law practice group at Cranfill Sumner LLP, will participate in the 2015 Lawyer Panel… Read More
Five Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Listed Among 2015 Legal Elite
Five Cranfill Sumner attorneys in its Raleigh, Charlotte and Wilmington offices were recognized by Business North Carolina magazine as Legal Elite… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Announces Four New Partners
Cranfill Sumner named four new partners: Bradley P. Kline and M. Janelle Lyons of Charlotte, J. Greer Vanderberry, Jr. of Raleigh and Melody J. Jolly of Wilmington.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Featured in Wrightsville Beach Magazine
Patrick Mincey and Benton Toups were featured in the Men in Business section of the November 2014 issue of Wrightsville Beach Magazine.… Read More
Settlement Involving No Payment Reached for Fire Department
Katie Weaver Hartzog obtained a recommendation by a magistrate judge in federal court for summary judgment in favor of a volunteer fire department in which plaintiff alleged First Amendment Retaliation and Equal Protection claims.… Read More
Benton Toups Recognized for Pro Bono Service
Benton Toups, Vice-Chair of the Employment Law Practice Group at Cranfill Sumner, was recently awarded a Pro Bono Publico award by the New Hanover County Bar Association and the Legal Aid of NC, Inc.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Ranked as Metropolitan Tier 1 Firm in “Best Law Firms” List
2015 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” ranked Cranfill Sumner as a Metropolitan Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3 law firm in multiple practice areas.
… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys to Present at “Employment Law Beyond the Basics” Seminar
Cranfill Sumner attorneys Paul Derrick, Dan Hartzog, Jr. and Carolyn Pratt present at the “Employment Law Beyond the Basics” Seminar in Durham NC. … Read More
Kara Gansmann Joins Carousel Center Board of Directors
Kara Gansmann, of Cranfill Sumner, appointed to the board of directors for the Carousel Center, Inc; a child friendly environment for abused and neglected children.… Read More
24 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2015
Twenty-four attorneys from Cranfill Sumner LLP were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America.… Read More
Disability for PTSD Claim Dismissed
Katie Weaver Hartzog obtained dismissal of plaintiff’s claims against a Community College in which he alleged he was discriminated against based on his Post Traumatic Stress Disorder disability, which he obtained during his service in Afghanistan.… Read More
Community College Teacher Loses on Claims of Employment Discrimination
Dan Hartzog, Jr. obtained dismissal in an employment discrimination claim brought by a former community college teacher. Plaintiff brought claims for gender discrimination, race discrimination, and negligent infliction of emotional distress against a community college and two individual defendants.… Read More
Toups Dismissal for Hospital – Race Discrimination, Hostile Work Environment
Benton Toups obtained dismissal on behalf of a hospital in a case brought by a former employee alleging race discrimination and hostile work environment.… Read More
Benton Toups Named Town of Calabash Attorney
Benton Toups, Vice Chair of the Employment Law Practice Group at Cranfill Sumner LLP, was recently named the Town Attorney for Calabash, N.C.… Read More
Hartzog Defends Employer Facing Breach of Contract Claim
Dan Hartzog, Jr. obtained summary judgment in a lawsuit filed by a former community college professor who alleged that he could not find work due to alleged statements by his former employer.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Participate in 4ALL Statewide Service Day
Ten attorneys from Cranfill Sumner provided vital legal advice and resources in the North Carolina Bar Association’s Annual 4ALL Statewide Service Day.… Read More
Three Attorneys Join Cranfill Sumner Wilmington Office
Cranfill Sumner LLP (Cranfill Sumner) announced that attorney’s Trey Blincoe, Kara Gansmann and Elizabeth King have joined the firm’s Wilmington office.… Read More
Benton Toups Featured in News Story Regarding Marijuana and Employment Law
Benton Toups, of Cranfill Sumner, provides insight into the legal implications for North Carolinians usage of legal marijuana in Colorado while on vacation. … Read More
21 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Named to 2014 North Carolina Super Lawyers and Rising Stars List
Cranfill Sumner announced that 21 of its attorneys are selected for inclusion in the 2014 North Carolina Super Lawyers and 2014 North Carolina Rising Stars lists.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Listed Among 2014 Legal Elite
Cranfill Sumner attorneys in its Raleigh and Wilmington offices were recognized by Business North Carolina magazine as part of the magazine’s Legal Elite program.… Read More
Hartzog Successfully Defends Municipal Corporation
Katie Weaver Hartzog prevailed on a motion to dismiss of plaintiff’s claims of fraud and misrepresentation against his former employer.… Read More
Dan Hartzog, Jr. to Speak at NBI Seminar About Local Governments
Hartzog will lead sessions during the seminar including ‘Individual Capacity Claims Against Government Employees’ and ‘Municipal Employment Relations.’… Read More
25 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America© 2014
Cranfill Sumner is proud to announce that 25 of its attorneys were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America©.… Read More
Hartzog Wins on Summary Judgment for Town Sued by Former Employees
Dan Hartzog, Jr. obtained summary judgment in a case involving two former sanitation workers for the a Town. The case received significant local media attention, and the workers were nicknamed the “Sanitation 2” in the press.… Read More
Benton Toups to Speak at Topsail Chamber Event
Benton Toups addresses the Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce about “What Employers Need to Know About Labor Law” and the basics of employment laws, how they impact small businesses and the increase in statutory regulation that comes with growth.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner to Sponsor & Present Seminars at Wilmington Biz Expo
‘Employment Law 101: What You Need to Know as You Grow,’ will cover employment law issues relevant to small business.… Read More
Hartzog, Jr. Obtains Dismissal in All Claims Brought by Union Against Town
In a case that received significant media attention, Dan Hartzog, Jr. obtained dismissal of all claims in a lawsuit brought by a local protective union, the former president of the union and several members against a City.… Read More
Former Police Officer Denied Recovery for Alleged Constitutional Violations
Dan Hartzog, Jr. successfully defended a city facing a federal lawsuit brought by a former Police Lieutenant who was terminated a few days after he was named the next Police Chief of the City.… Read More
23 Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2013 Edition
Twenty-three lawyers from Cranfill Sumner were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2013… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Attorneys Successfully Defend Fire Department
Paul Derrick and Katie Weaver Hartzog successfully defended a local fire department and its chief facing claims for wrongful discharge, violations of civil rights, violations of union organizing rights, and First Amendment restraint in the US District Court for the Eastern District of NC. … Read More
Toups scheduled to Present at NCPRIMA Conference
Benton Toups and Jason Toups of Cranfill Sumner, Wilmington have been selected as speakers for the 2012 NC Public Risk Management Association (NCPRIMA) Conference.… Read More
Sexual Harassment and Defamation Claims Dismissed against City
Katie Weaver Hartzog obtained summary judgment on behalf of a City in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of N.C. with regard to plaintiff’s claims of Title VII retaliation and constructive discharge, defamation, and interference with prospective contract. … Read More
Town Successfully Defends Against Claims Brought by Police Officer
Dan Hartzog, Jr. successfully defended a Town against claims brought by a former police chief alleging due process and equal protection violations, invasion of privacy, wrongful termination, tortious interference with contract, and civil conspiracy.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Lands 17 Attorneys in the Best Lawyers in America® 2012 Edition
Cranfill Sumner, one of the largest civil defense firms in North Carolina, announced today that 17 of its attorneys selected The Best Lawyers in America.… Read More
Police Officers Claims Against City Dismissed before Discovery
Katie Weaver Hartzog and Dan Hartzog obtained a Rule 12(b)(6) dismissal of a police officer’s claims that she was constructively discharged based on her refusal to “cover up” an allegedly shoddy criminal investigation.… Read More
Bolick Defends College Facing Claims of Sexual Harassment
Ryan Bolick obtained summary judgment on behalf of a college in the Middle District of North Carolina dismissing Plaintiff’s Title VII claims of sexual harassment. Plaintiff alleged that certain actions of her supervisor, including winking and leaning over her desk created a hostile work environment.… Read More
Cranfill Sumner Successfully Defends Town Facing First Amendment Retaliation Claim
Pat Flanagan and Meagan Kiser obtained summary judgment on behalf of a town and it’s Manager on a first amendment retaliation claim, based on defenses of qualified immunity and policy making.… Read More
Bolick Wins Summary Judgment for County Board of Elections
Ryan Bolick obtained summary judgment on behalf of a County Board of Elections in the Eastern District of North Carolina as to all Plaintiff’s claims under Title VII for failure to promote based on alleged discrimination of race, gender and retaliation.… Read More
Dismissal in Matter Before Office of Administrative Hearings
Katie Weaver Hartzog obtained a dismissal of a matter filed with the North Carolina Office of Administrative Hearings after filing a motion to dismiss and supporting memorandum… Read More
Derrick and Jolly Defend Fire Department in Federal Suit
Paul Derrick and Melody Jolly represented a local fire department and its chief in this action involving claims for sexual harassment, gender discrimination, retaliatory discharge, and First Amendment restraint in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of NC. … Read More
Bolick and Lyons Successfully Defend Municipality and Board of Elections
Ryan Bolick and Janelle Lyons obtained dismissal of all plaintiff’s claims for discrimination against a municipality and its Board of Elections in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of N.C.… Read More
Firefighter Kept Loaded Gun in his Locker
Dan Hartzog, Jr. obtained summary judgment on all claims in a lawsuit brought by a firefighter against a City. The case involved a firefighter who was terminated after a loaded gun was discovered in his locker on City grounds.… Read More
Jolly Obtains Dismissal of Various Claims Against Volunteer Fire Department
In 2007, Melody Jolly successfully obtained a dismissal in her representation of a volunteer fire department.… Read More
Bolick Prevails on Summary Judgment for Housing Authority Facing Various Employment Related Claims
Ryan Bolick obtained summary judgment on behalf of a housing authority in the Western District of North Carolina dismissing Plaintiff’s Title VII claims of racial discrimination, and state law claims under the Retaliatory Discharge Act and negligent hiring and retention.… Read More
