Knotek, M. Brian

Brent Knight has extensive experience representing clients in labor and employment law matters. Brent has represented clients in state courts, federal courts, and before administrative agencies throughout the United States on claims brought pursuant to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the National Labor Relations Act, and in a variety of state law tort and contract matters, including claims brought pursuant to covenants not to compete and confidentiality agreements. Among these cases have been several class action matters, including wage and hour disputes brought against a major retailer in California as well as a nationwide gender discrimination class action. Brent has also successfully represented clients in unfair labor practice proceedings before the National Labor Relations Board. Representative clients in recent public matters include Wal-Mart Stores, General Mills, Alderwoods Group, Continental Tire North America, and Verizon Communications.

In addition to traditional advocacy, Brent counsels clients on compliance with state and federal labor and employment laws, including union campaign and bargaining issues. He has advised corporate clients regarding union organizing activity, successfully defeating representation efforts of unions such as the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and the United Steelworkers of America. He regularly advises clients regarding the enforceability of noncompetition agreements throughout the country. Brent also has experience in international employment law and has counseled clients regarding the overseas employment of foreign nationals.

Brent belongs to the Illinois State Bar Association and the American Bar Association.