Catherine Williams' practice includes representing clients in complex commercial litigation and employment litigation. Ms. Williams has served as a Law Clerk to the Hon. Paul G. Gardephe of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.

Representative Matters

Commercial and Class Action Litigation

Represented consumer products company in false advertising class actions brought by competitors and consumers.

Represented juice manufacturer in false advertising action brought by class of consumers.

Represented major medical device manufacturer in patent litigation.

Employment

Defense of employers against discrimination and retaliation charges under state and federal law.

Defense of Fair Labor Standards Act collective actions.

Defense of putative ERISA class action alleging failure to pay benefits due to nationwide class of employees under severance pay plan. Second Circuit affirmed dismissal of federal claims; New York Appellate Division, Fourth Department affirmed dismissal of state claims.

Defense of claims for breach of employment agreements.

Advising corporate and not-for-profit clients on issues including employee handbooks, employment and termination agreements, reductions in force, compliance with the Family and Medical Leave Act, and wage and hour law compliance.

Pro Bono

City of New York v. Maul, 14 N.Y.3d 499 (2010). Represent class of children in foster care with developmental disabilities in suit alleging that government agencies have failed to provide required services and have left children in unduly restrictive placements. Class certification decision affirmed by the New York Court of Appeals.