Shirley Lerner

slerner@littler.com
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For over three decades, Shirley Lerner has represented employers in a wide variety of employment claims in state and federal courts and before administrative agencies. She has successfully defended her clients against claims of wrongful termination, unfair competition, discrimination, harassment, contractor misclassification and wage and hour violations. Shirley represents a diverse range of companies – from local sole proprietorships to large multinational corporations. She has developed an in-depth knowledge of the legal and employment challenges facing manufacturing, financial services, professional services, staffing, nonprofit and sales organizations.

Shirley’s clients rely on her to understand their business needs and provide sound advice to manage risk and ensure legal compliance, with a focus in the following areas:

  • Hiring, performance management, and terminations, including reductions-in-force
  • Responding to harassment and discrimination, including training and investigation
  • Employment and executive agreements, including noncompetition and confidential information protections
  • Formulating and implementing policies and compensation plans
  • Leaves of absence issues - including paid sick and safe leave
  • Compliance with accommodation laws, including disability and religious accommodation
  • Classification of workers, including independent contractors, and exempt and nonexempt employees

In addition, Shirley has played a key role in bringing the firm’s Women’s Leadership Initiative to Minneapolis. Shirley is also a frequent speaker on a variety of labor and employment law topics at continuing education and management events.

Credentials & Recognition

Speaking Engagements

Accommodating a Multireligious and Multicultural Workforce

  • May 3, 2018
  • Littler Executive Employer, Phoenix, AZ

Employment Law Update: Local, State & Federal

  • February 15, 2018
  • Twin Cities Society Human Resources

Pay Equity and Sick Leave: Cities and States Venture Where Congress Fears to Tread

  • October 26, 2017
  • Littler Midwest Regional Employer, Minneapolis, MN

Advocating for Yourself and Others: What Roles Does Gender Play?

  • April 26, 2017
  • Littler Minneapolis Women’s Leadership Initiative Series

Gender & Generations: A Focus on the Millennial Workforce

  • November 16, 2016
  • Littler Minneapolis Women’s Leadership Initiative Series

Let Them Down Easy: The Art of Reductions in Force

  • October 4, 2016
  • Midwest Regional Employer, Minneapolis, MN

Women and the Law

  • April 27, 2016
  • Littler Minneapolis Women’s Leadership Initiative Series

Gender Equity in the C-Suite: The Myths & Realities of the Leadership Gender Gap

  • November 19, 2015
  • Littler Minneapolis Women’s Leadership Initiative Series

Minnesota Women’s Economic Security Act

  • April 22, 2015
  • Littler Minneapolis Women’s Leadership Initiative Series

Let us know how we can help you navigate your particular workplace legal issues.