Biography
Susan Gilfillan joined the firm in 1989 and is a principal of the firm. Susan has extensive experience in labor law with an emphasis on employment law issues. She represents state government, municipalities, school boards and private clients in these areas. In her practice, she regularly represents employers during labor negotiations, grievance procedures and arbitrations as well as in unfair labor practice claims. Susan also frequently advises clients on a wide variety of employment issues including, drafting and revising employment policies, hiring and firing, discrimination and or harassment claims, medical leaves, unemployment claims, and leave issues, such as Vermont’s Parental and Family Medical Leave, the federal Family Medical Leave Act and military leave. In addition, she provides trainings to managers to ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws and to assist in addressing issues on a day to day basis. Sue also works regularly with education employers focusing on employment, policy and school district rights and responsibilities under the federal Family and Educational Privacy Rights Act.
Notable Representations:
- In conjunction, with Joseph E. McNeil, Esq. represented the State of Vermont in its labor negotiations with the Vermont State Employees.
- Represented the State of Vermont in its labor negotiations with Vermont State Troopers Association.
- Represented the Judiciary of the State of Vermont in its labor negotiations with the Vermont State Employees Association and continue to provide labor and employment counsel.
- Represented the City of Burlington, VT in labor negotiations, contract grievances and disciplinary actions with AFCSME, IBEW and its Police and Fire Unions.
- Advised and continue to advise the Burlington School District on multiple labor and employment issues, polices and education issues.
- Represented numerous school districts and municipalities in labor negotiations, and contract grievances for teachers, administrators, para educators, property services employees and other union and non-unionized employees.