Bakes, Robert E.

Practice Focus

The best attorneys are problem solvers. My law practice focuses on finding effective solutions for both public and private employers in the defense of claims involving discrimination, harassment, wrongful discharge, violations of medical leave laws, workers' compensation retaliation, and wage-and-hour claims.

I have successfully defended numerous claims in all of these areas, including claims filed with the Oregon Bureau of Labor & Industries ("BOLI") and with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ("EEOC").

I also negotiate and draft employment and other business contracts, severance agreements and personnel handbooks, as well as give advice on hiring, firing and layoffs. Internal investigations of employee complaints are a mainstay of my practice.

A major component of my practice is problem solving and prevention. To that end, I advise employers on how to train managers and supervisors to recognize potential discrimination or retaliation complaints before they become a reality. I help employers avoid wage claims by making sure employees are properly classified in accordance with state and federal law. I have extensive experience interpreting and implementing family medical leave laws and the Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA").

In addition, I have a wealth of experience in labor law, having advised both public and private employers in negotiations, contract enforcement and resolution of grievances, including unfair labor practice complaints.

Presentations and Client Trainings

Please contact this law firm directly to learn more about the following options. Prices for sessions vary according to topic, location, length of presentation and number of participants.

• The Price is Right: How Much Did This Mistake Cost the Employer?
• Employment Basics for Small Businesses
• Best Hiring Practices
• Employee Privacy
• Employer Rights and Responsibilities During a Union Organizing Campaign
• Dodging the Hazards of Electronic Communications in the Workplace
• How to Prevent Sexual Harassment
• Managing Employee Injuries, Illnesses and Disabilities: Juggling Workers' Compensation, ADA, and Leave Laws
• Preventing Retaliation Claims
• Top Ten Strategies to Avoid Litigation
• The Dirty Dozen: 12 Things Never to Say to an Employee