David A. Tauster

What do you focus on?

My practice focuses on three main areas.

Labor Relations

I advise employers in all matters relating to union organization and representation of their workforce. I previously served as the Deputy Director of Nassau County’s Office of Labor Relations, and presently represent both small and large employers in connection with collective bargaining, grievance arbitrations and proceedings before the National Labor Relations Board.

Employment Litigation

I have significant experience representing employers in all types of employment litigation, whether in state or federal court or before various administrative agencies. I routinely appear on behalf of employers in wage and hour matters, including claims under the Fair Labor Standards Act and New York Labor Law, and in connection with audits by both the New York State and United States Departments of Labor. I also represent employers in matters involving claims under statutes governing workplace discrimination, harassment and retaliation, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans With Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, the New York State Human Rights Law and the New York City Human Rights Law.

Advice and Counsel

I routinely advise employers regarding compliance with various federal, state and local employment laws. This includes drafting employee handbooks, workplace policies and employment agreements. I also provide day-to-day advice to employers in addressing matters such as employment terminations and requests for leaves of absence.

What do you see on the horizon?

The proliferation of state and local regulations in the labor and employment arena will continue to pose challenges to employers. In particular, employers are facing increasing changes in wage and hour laws at the local level, with some municipalities adopting higher minimum wages and other requirements while the rest of their state may lag behind. The practical result is that employers who do business even in multiple jurisdictions within the same state may be forced to contend with different and sometimes seemingly contradictory regulations in managing their workforce.

Presentations

• “Workforce Resources,” Compel CEOs Covid-19 Webinar, March 31, 2020