Littler Welcomes Two Leading Independent Contractor Compliance Attorneys to New York Office

NEW YORK (July 1, 2026) – Littler, the world’s largest employment and labor law practice representing management, has added shareholder Richard Reibstein and senior counsel Janet Barsky to its New York City office. They both bring extensive experience advising employers on independent contractor compliance and defending against misclassification claims.

“As the use of independent contractors and gig workers continues to come with wide-ranging business considerations and legal risks, Richard’s and Janet’s depth of experience will provide tremendous value to our clients,” said Erin Webber, Littler’s managing director and president. “Richard has built a premier practice in the area of independent contractor compliance and worker classification, and together he and Janet are highly trusted and sought after advisors for clients across an array of industries. We’re thrilled to have them on board.”

Reibstein helps businesses across the United States enhance their compliance with federal and state laws governing independent contractors. He also represents companies in misclassification litigation, government investigations and proceedings, and conducts worker classification audits. He regularly defends clients against class and collective actions and assists companies in structuring, documenting and implementing workforce models to maximize legal compliance.

Barsky likewise focuses on advising companies on how to minimize misclassification exposure by restructuring and re-documenting their independent contractor relationships. She also represents businesses before administrative agencies in claims seeking unemployment insurance, workers’ compensation, employment taxes, benefits, and overtime and minimum wage payments.

“We are excited to welcome Richard and Janet to our New York office,” said Jeanine Conley Daves, Littler’s New York City office managing shareholder. “Their decades of experience advising clients on evolving labor and employment laws, combined with their innovative thought leadership in the area of independent contractor compliance and misclassification, will further elevate the service we provide to clients in New York and beyond.”

In addition to his independent contractor practice, Reibstein counsels clients on unfair competition and trade secret law, including drafting and litigating non-compete, non-solicitation and other types of restrictive covenant agreements. He also advises employers on issues related to labor management relations and wage and hour laws. Additionally, Reibstein conducts workplace investigations and defends employers against claims relating to discrimination, harassment, overtime pay, unpaid benefits, and wrongful discharge, among other areas.

“Janet and I have long been familiar with Littler’s track record of litigating high-profile independent contractor misclassification cases, as well as its focus on compliance and proactively mitigating risk, which is a natural fit for our practice” said Reibstein. “Littler’s depth of talent and insight into all facets of labor and employment law offer a unique ability to help senior leaders make informed workforce decisions that advance their broader business goals. We are excited to leverage this platform as we continue to support clients in navigating increasingly complex issues around independent contractor compliance and the future of work."

Reibstein and Barsky publish the only legal blog in the country dedicated exclusively to covering independent contractor compliance and misclassification issues. Since its inception in 2010, they have published more than 360 comprehensive blog posts on court cases, legislation, regulatory initiatives and newsworthy developments in this area.

Reibstein received his J.D. from George Washington University Law School and his B.A. from University of Rochester. A prolific author and speaker, Reibstein’s insights have been featured extensively in legal and business publications, and he regularly presents at business and industry association events. 

Barsky received her J.D. from Yeshiva University, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law and her B.S. from Cornell University. She has been involved in a number of civic and charitable organizations over the course of her career and currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the East Meadow Public Library in New York and the Board of Directors of Eden II Programs, a non-profit that supports the autism community.

Both Reibstein and Barsky join from Troutman Pepper Locke.

About Littler 

With more than 1,800 labor and employment attorneys in offices around the world, Littler provides workplace solutions that are local, everywhere. Our global team and proprietary technology foster a culture that celebrates original thinking, delivering groundbreaking innovation that prepares employers for what’s happening today, and what’s likely to happen tomorrow.