Matthew Maler practices in all areas of labor and employment, with a particular emphasis on representing contractors, owners, and developers in the construction and energy industries.
He appears in both state and federal courts. He also practices before federal and state administrative agencies, including the National Labor Relations Board, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the California Civil Rights Department, the California Labor Commissioner, and the Department of Industrial Relations.
His litigation experience includes representing clients in alternative dispute resolution (mediation and arbitration) through discovery and dispositive motion practice and through trial and post-trial proceedings. As a former appellate research attorney, Matt also represents clients facing writ petitions, appeals, and other review of judicial and administrative decisions.
Common issues Matt has litigated before courts and administrative bodies include:
- Wage and hour matters
- Prevailing wage laws
- Disability and leave claims
- Wrongful discharge
- Employment discrimination
- Sexual harassment claims
- Breach of contract actions
- Title VII
- The Americans with Disabilities Act
- The Family and Medical Leave Act
- The Fair Employment and Housing Act
- The California Family Rights Act
- California disability laws
Additionally, Matt advises employers on a wide range of issues, including:
- Compliance with wage and hour, EEO, and disability and leave laws
- Discipline and termination
- Employment agreements
- Confidentiality agreements
- Measures to avoid litigation
Prior to joining Littler, Matt served as a research attorney for the California Fifth District Court of Appeal, where he advised the justices in complex civil appeals. Matt also worked at a large law firm practicing complex commercial and construction litigation.