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Robert M Fortgang

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Robert M Fortgang
Robert M Fortgang
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About Robert

Robert Fortgang Associates, LLC - Employment & Labor Law Attorneys. Serving CT & MA ...We Can Help.

Whenever I am asked to speak in public I enjoy sharing with my audience that I do not write wills or do house closings ...but if they have employment issues relating to "hiring" "firing" or "managing-in-between" ...my message will likely hit home. I firmly believe that neither employers nor employees have an absolute lock on stupidity ...and given the right (or wrong) set of circumstances, either side will often launch otherwise avoidable disputes into outer space. In all of this ...We Can Help

 

The Stanger Stanfield Difference.     Employment disputes tend to be volatile and complex.  Whether you are an employer or an employee you need legal counsel who can handle difficult and sensitive issues with speed, skill and confidence.  At Stanger Stanfield, I practice exclusively in the labor and employment field. Together with my colleagues, we know the players, we know the rules, and we have the necessary practical experience to support our understanding of the law. We're experienced in handling both your stress and your issues; we roll up our sleeves and get at it. Members of the firm appear regularly before human rights commissions, state labor departments, arbitration boards, and a myriad of other administrative agencies. We have extensive experience litigating in State and Federal Courts throughout the New England States.

 

Creative, Practical Advice.     Knowing the law is the easy part of our job. The more difficult aspect is applying the legal principles in creative and practical ways, to achieve our clients' short and long-term objectives. We take pride in our ability to meet this challenge. Before we give an opinion, make a recommendation, or advance an argument on your behalf, the legal and practical implications are always considered.

 

We encourage settlement or alternative dispute resolution where that is the best course of action. If the only areas of compromise are excessive or unsuitable, we tell you so. The result is that you are put in the position of making an informed and pragmatic decision.

 

We are used to dealing with sophisticated problems on short notice. Whether you need an employment contract drafted, a severance package prepared, or a cease and desist order to protect your business assets, we respond promptly, skillfully and with confidence.

 

Proactive Solutions.     We encourage clients to seek our advice before problems arise. Employers can often avoid acrimonious and costly disputes through careful preparation and planning. By helping you take a proactive, preventative approach to labor and employment issues, we can save you time, money and aggravation.

Our lawyers are committed to providing individual, personalized service. We take the time to get to know you and to learn about your business. Once we understand your problem, we tell you in plain English about the legal framework, your options, and our recommendations.

 

We are easily accessible in person, by e-mail or by telephone. Voice mail messages are returned promptly.  Because employment problems don't always arise during business hours, we make our home and cellular numbers available to clients who expect to have difficulties in the evening or on weekends. 

We Can Help.

Practice areas

OtherWrongful terminationSexual harassmentDiscriminationEmployment and labor
  1. Employment and labor: 20%

    Litigation in all New England state and federal district courts, including state human rights commissions law

    41 years, 1,000 cases

  2. Discrimination: 20%

    Litigation in all New England state and federal district courts, including state human rights commissions

    41 years, 1,000 cases

  3. Sexual harassment: 20%

    Litigation in all New England state and federal district courts, including state human rights commissions

    41 years, 1,000 cases

  4. Wrongful termination: 20%

    Litigation in all New England state and federal district courts, including state human rights commissions

    41 years, 1,000 cases

  1. Arbitration: 20%

    We will arbitrate any matter before the American Arbitiration Association or via private ADR

    41 years, 1,000 cases

Photos and videos

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1454306 1339622107

Contact

Corporate Center West
address map

Stanger Stanfield Law, LLC

Corporate Center West
433 South Main Street
West Hartford, CT, 06110

Fax (860) 561-0646
Website
www.StangerLaw.com

Stanger Stanfield Law, LLC

Attorney Robert Fortgang
339 Main St / PO Box 912
Webster, MA, 01570

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
MAActive201009/16/2019
CTActive198012/23/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers491
Legal guides3
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
BV RatedMartindale-Hubbell2015
Clients' Choice 2012Avvo2012
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
Senior Vice President and Counsel, Human ResourcesConnecticut Small Business Federation1984 - Present
Counsel, Human ResourcesConnecticut Human Resource Reports1984 - Present
AttorneyRobert Fortgang Associates1984 - Present
Director of Industrial Relations and Small Business ServicesConnecticut Business & Industry Association1982 - 1984
Assistant Director of Human ResourcesThe Hartford Courant1980 - 1982
Personnel ManagerGerber Scientific Instrument Company1978 - 1980
Compensation AnalystAetna Life & Casualty1976 - 1978
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
United States Court of Appeals for the Second CircuitAdmitted as an Attorney2008 - Present
Connecticut Employment Lawyers AssociationMember2007 - Present
Simsbury Chamber of CommerceMember1997 - Present
Connecticut Bar AssociationMember1980 - Present
Connecticut Bar Association, Labor & Employment Law SectionMember1980 - Present
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
Connecticut Human Resource Reports, LLCLegal Counsel and contributor of employment related forms and articles, including the At-Will Hiring Package1999
Personnelly Speaking©Series of monthly newsletters for the membership of the Connecticut Small Business Federation1998
Employee Manual Maker©Chief legal consultant and Senior contributing author1994
Connecticut Heating & Cooling Contractors Human Resource PublicationHow To Develop an Employee Handbook1993
Personnelly Speaking©Series of monthly newsletters for the membership of the Connecticut Association of Builders and Contractors1990
Personnelly Speaking©Series of monthly newsletters for the membership of the Connecticut Society of Association Executives1989
Personnelly Speaking©Negligent Hiring ...Choose With Care1989
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
University of Bridgeport School of LawJD - Juris Doctor1980
Adelphi UniversityBA - Bachelor of Arts1972
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Employment Issues UpdateHiring, Firing & Managing In-Between2011
Windsor Chamber of CommerceThe Employment Law Answer Man2010
Simsbury Public LibraryHelp! I think my job is in jeopardy.2009
Avon Public LibraryHiring, Firing & Managing In-between2009
Granby Public LibraryEmployment Law Answer Man2009
Connecticut Club Managers Association Educational ConferenceContemporary Legal Issues Affecting Employment1998
Connecticut Club Managers Association Educational ConferencePreventing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace & Hiring, Firing & Managing-in-between1997
Connecticut Club Managers Association Educational ConferenceAn Examination of Some Critical Legal Issues Affecting Connecticut Employers1997
New England Wholesalers ConventionHow To Avoid Employee Lawsuits1993
1992 International Remodeling Contractors AssociationStrategies To Stay One Step Ahead1992
CSCPS's Industry, Government and Education ConferenceLegal Issues Affecting Employment1991
West Hartford Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Seminar SeriesWage & Hour Laws and Labor Practices1991
CECA - Management SeminarFederal & State Minimum Wage and Overtime Laws1990
A Personnel Compliance SeminarHow to Meet Your Legal Obligations1990
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
Daniel Santos v Brooks Pharmacy d/b/a Maxi Drug, Inc. and Jean Coutu Group PJC USA, INC.Defendants Motion for Summary Judgment was granted
Karen Smigel v State of Connecticut Insurance DepartmentThe matter was settled prior to trial.
David Donovan v. Anderson MerchandisersThe matter was amicably settled prior to trial.
Suzanne Desrochers v. Brooks PharmacyDismissed following investigation
NAMCO, LLC v Anthony GiovanniPlaintiff Judgment in the amount of $53,093.21
Kimberly Skaggs v Subway Real Estate Corp., Doctor’s Associates Inc.The matter was settled prior to trial.
Cooney v North American Marketing Company d/b/a NAMCODefendant's Verdict
Angela Ventola vs. Brooks PharmacyDismissed after investigation
Meredith Mello v Brooks PharmacySettled on the eve of trial.
Lilith Caulfield v. Brooks PharmacyDismissed after investigation.
Sabrina Bryant v Brooks PharmacySettled prior to trial.

Reviews

(41)
5 Star
98%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
2%
Review Robert Fortgang

EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATION, HIRE HIM………

Posted by

I contacted Robert Fortgang & Associates through his web site (www.fortgangemploymentlaw.com) after my Unemployment Benefit was declined and I had to file an appeal. My case was little complicated and I was desperate to give clear picture to DOL that I was under no fault. I saw Robert Fortagang for a consultation and hired him. He was patient with me, very professional and thorough and was able to make me feel at ease and well taken care of. He helped me understand the process, the time frames involved, and prepared me for the hearing. He was always replied to my phone and emails. His presentations to the referee was extremely well versed and given in a very strong professional manner and because of that I was able to win. I felt very comfortable being represented by Robert. I would strongly recommend Robert Fortgng for any employment/DOL related issues.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Extremely Helpful

Posted by

I had an unpleasant experience as part of the 'old guard' for a fairly new company whereby the Board of Directors brought in a new President and the new President brought in a number of his own people (hence, I was unfairly demoted and ultimately forced out). I consulted with Mr. Fortgang 3-4 times on what my options where and he was extremely helpful in explaining what they were and what each option would require from me - all prior to determining or charging any fees. I've never had a reason to consult an employment lawyer in my 25+ year career and was concerned over costs just to determine if I had a case worth pursuing. I was very relieved and pleased with the manner Mr. Fortgang consulted with me in order to determine what my best plan of action would be prior to establishing and charging any fees. Therefore, I would highly recommend Mr. Fortgang to anyone searching for an employment lawyer in the future.
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney

Excellent support

Posted by

Rob was great from the beginning. After I followed through with my part of filing the complaint (making it a serious situation), he represented me on contingency basis for an age discrimination /failure to hire case with a major, national corporation.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent consultation

Posted by

Mr. Fortgang not only answered the phone, he listened to my problem and gave a thoughtful and educated response. He spoke in professional but personable manner that set me at ease. I would hire him for any future needs.
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney
Robert Fortgang's response: Thank you so much for this very kind recommendation.

Willfull Misconduct Appeal

Posted by

Attorney Fortgang went above and beyond representing my Husband in a Willfull Misconduct Appeal. From contacting us over Thanksgiving weekend to preparing him for the Appeal. He straight shooter what exactly to expect Either way it turned out. Which in this case was a Home run
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Extremely patient and knowledgeable

Posted by

I spoke with Robert and his partner Katie at length about my case over the course of a few days. I know I was asking a lot of questions again and again, yet they took the time to answer them professionally each and every time. I felt like more than a case to them with the time they took to help me during the rough patch in my life. If ever I find myself in another situation where I need consul I would not hesitate to call them again
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney

Very Helpful Attorney

Posted by

Attorney Fortgang contacted me and over the phone provided very sound advice for my situation without charge. I found his insights valuable and he spent a considerable amount of time speaking to me. In the event I do need a labor lawyer, I would not hesitate to contact him for representation. Highly recommend.
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney

This attorney is very passionate to help people.

Posted by

It is no wonder why Attorney Robert recipient of all 5-star reviews only. In fact, Robert was very passionate about helping people. He was very patient to understand my situation and reviewed all my documents and did not charge me a dime. He even called me at 8 PM same day and went over information. He was very upfront explaining all my options without taking a retainer. I can't believe people like him exist in this world. It was a blessing to find him.
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney

State of Connecticut prevailing wage

Posted by

star only rI found Robert Fortgang through a friend's recommendation that I use Avvo to find an attorney to help me with the State of Connecticut prevailing wage, I was being sued by the State of Connecticut. I chose Robert based on his rating with Avvo. Robert himself responded to my inquiry, very promptly. He talked to me about the position I was in regarding State of Connecticut's prevailing wage. He was able to negotiate a settlement with the State of Connecticut in a very short period of time. I would definitely recommend Mr. Fortgang and his firm for any legal needs.eview
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Rob is like having a family member as an attorney!!

Posted by

Robert Fortgang has helped our small business whenever we need HR advice. He gives us logical straight-forward answers to our questions. Rob has represented us during a dispute with an employee and we were able to settle with arbitration. We feel like we have a trusted friend on our side.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(42)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Charles Houlihan, Employment and labor Attorney on Feb 1, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Rob has extensive experience in employment controversies and diligently stays on top of this rapidly changing legal specialty. I have been adverse to Rob's client and have sat as an arbiter in a case he presented. In both instances, he was thorough, well prepared and creative in his approaches to the situations. He always presents his clients in a logical, forthright manner, and therefore avoids the confusion and entanglements displayed by lessfocused lawyers. I recommend Rob highly as an intelligent and resourceful problem-solver. Charles D. Houlihan, Jr.

Leon Lemaire, Employment and labor Attorney on Apr 15, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer's work. For over 35 years I have made referrals to Rob on matters of his expertise. He is one of the finest attorneys I have ever met, very intelligent and perceptive. I had the pleasure of watching him in action, when we shared offices and in the courtroom. Matters beyond my practice were always referred to Rob and he never let me down. As counsel for a small business association, I had many inquiries that needed follow-up by an outside attorney. Rob was always available to help these folks.

Rachel London, Wrongful termination Attorney on May 29, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Dmitriy Shakhnevich, Arbitration Attorney on Sep 28, 2014
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer.

Richard Geller

I endorse Robert. Highly respected in the legal community with a strong reputation for client advocacy and dedication.

Peter Thompson, Employment and labor Attorney on Jun 11, 2014
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

Robert is an extremely competent employment lawyer. I recommend him highly.

Stacey Washington, Employment and labor Attorney on May 22, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Although i no longer practice labor and employment law, I did so for more than a decade and recognize a good attorney in that area of law when I see one. Mr. Fortgang has provide quite a few insightful answers to questions on AVVO about labor and employment issues. I wouldn't hesitate to refer a client in need to him for representation. I endorse this lawyer.

Sean Cleary, Arbitration Attorney on May 19, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. A highly skilled and respected lawyer in the legal community.

A.J. Arias, Arbitration Attorney on May 13, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I personally endorse Attorney Fortgang for being an outstanding practitioner in his field and for delivering quality legal work to his clients.

Luis Monroy

I endorse this lawyer.

Ligia Parmenter

Robert M Fortgang is an experienced attorney whose participation and comments in Avvo show his commitment to serving clients very, very well. He is an excellent attorney that I recommend wholeheartedly.

Richard Rosenstein

I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Fortgang is a highly experienced and well respected member of the legal community. He is a zealous advocate for the rights and interests of his clients.

Michael Christiansen

I endorse this lawyer. Not only is he a reputable (and nice) guy, he is an excellent and ethical lawyer.He has a total command of the law and its practical application.

Michael Devlin, Employment and labor Attorney on Apr 11, 2014
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I heartily endorse Attorney Fortgang. His professional expertise, extensive and broad experience, and problem solving orientation have resulted in a very strong demand for his services.

Gary Ilmanen, Employment and labor Attorney on Apr 11, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this Mr. Fortang for his well-thought-out and cogent answers to questions posed on AVVO. I would not hesitate to retain him in his practice areas!

Thomas Moens

I have read many of the answers provided by Mr. Fortgang on Avvo. He provides clear, concise, and thoughtful answers. His answers on Avvo display expertise in the area of employment law, and he certainly is an asset to the legal community.

Joseph Maloney, Employment and labor Attorney on Apr 11, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Fortgang is highly rated by Martindale-Hubbel, which is the mostly widely regarded rating in the legal community, as the ratings are the result of peer review and input from judges. Mr. Fortgang's contributions on AVVO are tremendously helpful. For example, I recently came across his legal guide about accommodating religious practices. His guide explained clearly that the interactive process is the employer's opportunity to create a record of good faith, whether successful or unsuccessful; that is a keen insight that can only come from deep experience.

John O'Brien, Arbitration Attorney on Apr 11, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. A highly skilled and respected lawyer in the legal community.

Randal Moore, Employment and labor Attorney on Apr 8, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Morris Busca, Employment and labor Attorney on Jan 10, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Lawyers can endorse other lawyers. The genuine mark of an excellent attorney comes through praise from clients and former clients, as Bob has demonstrated. Mickey Busca

Christian Lassen

Top-notch employment & labor law attorney. Highly respected in the legal community.

Christopher Leroi, Employment and labor Attorney on Aug 29, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Fortgang is an exceptional attorney. Although I have been practicing law for 24 years as a judge, magistrate, law professor, prosecutor, and private attorney, I learn from his responses on Avvo every time that he posts. If I needed an attorney, I would hire him. I recommend him with no reservation. It would be the best investment of your life to hire him to represent you.

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    • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs30 minutes