Overview

As a member of the Littler CaseSmart – Charges™ team and based in Massachusetts, Richard V. Gello is responsible for handling charges from investigation to conclusion. He works on client-dedicated service teams, focusing on handling administrative agency charges. He investigates charge allegations, reviews pertinent documents, interviews key witnesses, and provides clients an assessment of the risks associated with the charge. In partnership with the client, he defends the charge by drafting persuasive position statements and responses to the agency’s requests for information.

Previously, Rick counseled private and public sector employers in labor and employment matters. Rick’s extensive labor law experience included handling discipline, performance management, grievance procedures, and collective bargaining negotiations. He assisted employers with all aspects of working harmoniously with labor unions.

In his employment counseling practice, Rick helped clients avoid and resolve workplace allegations of discrimination and harassment, as well as implement leave policies and reasonable workplace accommodations. He also handled wage and hour matters and all related employment law claims, with a focus on defending discrimination claims before the EEOC and state Fair Employment Practices Agencies.

Prior to joining Littler, Rick was an associate at a large management-side law firm, defending private and public employers in labor and employment matters. Before that, he was the director of labor relations for the Massachusetts Department of Revenue, where he oversaw labor relations and union negotiations, in addition to advising on all aspects of labor and employment law as the Department’s chief labor and employment attorney.

Professional & Community Affiliations

Member

Massachusetts Bar Association

Recognition

Recipient, Pro Bono Service Award

St. John’s University School of Law

Senior Articles Editor

St. John’s Law Review & Journal of Catholic Legal Studies

St. John’s University School of Law

Highest GPA in graduating class

Departmental Recognition in Government

Suffolk University College of Arts and Sciences

Dean’s High Honors List (All 8 Semesters)

Suffolk University College of Arts and Sciences

Phi Sigma Alpha (Political Science Honor Society)

Suffolk University College of Arts and Sciences

Lambda Pi Eta (Communication Honor Society)

Suffolk University College of Arts and Sciences

Gleason L. Archer Fellow

Suffolk University College of Arts and Sciences

Speaking Engagements

Employee Leave Laws in the Public Sector

Massachusetts Municipal Association’s HR Bootcamp

May 11, 2023

Progressive Discipline for Local Housing Authorities

Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development

September 13, 2022

Education

  • J.D., St. John’s University School of Law, 2015cum laude
  • B.S., Suffolk University, 2012summa cum laude

Bar Admission

Massachusetts