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Sara Longtain
Partner at Locke Lord LLP
Professional Background
Sara Longtain is a highly respected attorney specializing in labor and employment law. With extensive experience in litigating a myriad of employment-related disputes, she has built a robust career dedicated to advocating for both employees and employers. Her expertise encompasses claims of discrimination, harassment, failure to accommodate due to religious or disability needs, and retaliation under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964—vital areas of employment law that ensure fairness and justice in the workplace.
In addition, Sara is proficient in managing wage and hour disputes as stipulated under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). She provides a strong defense for employers concerning the enforcement of covenants not to compete and non-solicitation agreements, showing her understanding of intricate legal frameworks and the need for balanced employer protections. Furthermore, she represents clients in navigating complex workers’ compensation retaliation claims, providing comprehensive support throughout litigation processes in both state and federal court.
Sara’s impressive litigation experience is complemented by her active representation before various administrative bodies, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). Her ability to navigate these administrative processes is a testament to her legal acumen and commitment to serving her clients expertly.
Education and Achievements
Sara Longtain possesses a strong educational background, having earned her Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Houston Law Center. This rigorous legal education provided her with a solid foundation in law, enhancing her analytical and advocacy skills crucial for her subsequent practice in labor and employment law. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from The University of Texas at Austin. This undergraduate degree offers her a unique perspective on social dynamics and how they intersect with employment practices, allowing her to approach cases with a well-rounded viewpoint.
Sara is Board Certified in Labor & Employment Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a distinguished recognition that categorically establishes her expertise in this field. This certification not only highlights her competence and commitment but also reflects her dedication to excellence in legal practice.
Client Counseling and Legal Advisory
Beyond her litigation work, Sara provides invaluable counsel to employers regarding a broad range of personnel issues. Her advisory services include crucial aspects such as drafting, negotiating, and enforcing employment contracts, guiding clients through sensitive processes involved in terminations and disciplinary actions, as well as offering strategic advice on staff reductions or layoffs in compliance with the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN Act).
Moreover, Sara is knowledgeable in advising clients on compliance with the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), ensuring that employers adhere to critical federal regulations that protect employees' rights while managing their workforce effectively.
Her thorough understanding of employment law extends to assisting organizations in developing sound employment policies and procedures. This includes reviewing and revising existing employment handbooks to reflect the latest legal standards and creating tailored manuals specific to various business needs. From drafting policies addressing workplace violence to formulating guidelines on vacation/sick leave, employee privacy, internet/social media use, drug testing, and safeguarding confidential and trade secret information, Sara ensures that her clients maintain a compliant and robust organizational framework.
Sara’s role as a legal adviser reflects her comprehensive approach to labor and employment law, focusing not only on resolving disputes but also on preventing them through thoughtful and proactive legal strategies.
Notable Achievements
Sara Longtain is accredited as Board Certified in Labor & Employment Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, which showcases her exceptional knowledge and proficiency in the intricacies of labor law. Her previous tenure as Partner at Locke Lord LLP further underscores her extensive experience and leadership in the legal community. With a career dedicated to both litigation and preventive legal strategies, Sara is known for her commitment to ethical practices and dedication to enhancing the work environment for both employees and employers alike.
