Dan O’Toole, the firm’s Litigation practice group leader, focuses on employment and labor law. A key part of his practice involves helping employers guard against the threat of suits in a variety of personnel matters including work force reductions, restructuring, and compliance. His insights into the complex and rapidly changing world of employment and labor relations prepare clients to make sound business decisions in the alleviation, prevention, and resolution of conflicts.

Across multiple industries Dan defends employers in litigation involving allegations of discrimination and wrongful termination under the Family and Medical Leave Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the Missouri Human Rights Act. He handles workers compensation retaliation and whistleblower claims under Sarbanes Oxley, and in an array of other wrongful discharge claims. He routinely appears before state and federal courts, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Missouri Human Rights Commission, and the U.S. Department of Labor.

Dan also litigates cases alleging the disclosure of trade secrets and violations of non-compete agreements under the Uniform Trade Secrets Act. His experience extends to class action lawsuits, labor arbitration proceedings, and cases under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.

Skilled in employment and labor issues and best practices, Dan is a sought-after speaker, writer, trainer, and consulting advisor. He counsels regarding compliance with the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act and routinely presents in-house training seminars on a variety of issues including supervisory duties, interviewing and screening job applicants, sexual harassment prevention and investigation, EEOC policies and procedures, proper termination practices, and general personnel law. Dan also drafts, reviews, and improves policies, handbooks, and employment contracts.

Administratively, Dan is a member of the firm’s management committee which focuses on strategic and long-term planning. In helping to ensure the Litigation practice area runs smoothly and is positioned for the future, he coordinates new business efforts, ensures that matters are staffed appropriately and cost-effectively, and is heavily involved in retention and recruiting efforts. Dan is also a member of the firm’s compensation and contingent fee committees.