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Robert M Fortgang

Employment and labor Attorney

4.9   41 reviews

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About Robert

Learn Robert’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Arbitration
    20%
    We will arbitrate any matter before the American Arbitiration Association or via private ADR

    43 years, 1,000 cases

  2. Discrimination
    20%
    Litigation in all New England state and federal district courts, including state human rights commissions

    43 years, 1,000 cases

  3. Employment and labor
    20%
    Litigation in all New England state and federal district courts, including state human rights commissions law

    43 years, 1,000 cases

  4. Sexual harassment
    20%
    Litigation in all New England state and federal district courts, including state human rights commissions

    43 years, 1,000 cases

  5. Wrongful termination
    20%
    Litigation in all New England state and federal district courts, including state human rights commissions

    43 years, 1,000 cases

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.

Photos and videos

We have gone "lean" ...forever!
10 years to get to the altar ...the remainder of our lives to grow closer with one another and Our Lord.
Several years ago a dear friend asked me to join the board of directors of Mary's Place, a center for grieving children and families.  Doing so has been nothing short of life changing.  Will you please consider helping?  Just visit - www.marysplacect.com
From when it all began ...
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Licensed for 42 years
State MA
Status Active
Acquired 2010
Updated 09/16/2019
State CT
Status Permanent Retirement
Acquired 1980
Updated 01/31/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Robert

No contact information available for this lawyer

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  41 customer reviews
5 Star
 
98%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
2%
Posted by Jeff. | September 9, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent support
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.
Posted by cassandra | August 19, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent consultation
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.
Response from Robert Fortgang September 4, 2019
Thank you so much for this very kind recommendation.
Posted by anonymous | February 1, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Willfull Misconduct Appeal
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
Posted by Stephen | November 9, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Extremely patient and knowledgeable
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
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Posted by Lew | November 6, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very Helpful Attorney
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.
Posted by Rahman | October 23, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
This attorney is very passionate to help people.
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.
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Posted by Kim Zimmerman | February 8, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
State of Connecticut prevailing wage
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
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Posted by Minal | November 11, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATION, HIRE HIM………
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.
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Posted by Rich | October 13, 2015
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Extremely Helpful
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.
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Posted by Jay | September 4, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Rob is like having a family member as an attorney!!
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.
Posted by Eugenio | August 31, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Knowledgeable, effective and prompt.
We have been a client of Robert for over ten years. As an owner of a small business it’s important to have a labor attorney that is knowledgeable and up to date with the ever changing employment and labor landscape. Robert has helped us classify all of our employees, helped us with hiring documents, benefit packages and all other labor related matters. Thanks to Robert we never had any employment related issue. For this I’m very grateful to Robert and will always consult with him when it comes to employments matters. Thank you Robert for helping us make our company a great place to work.
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Posted by Michael | August 29, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A better result than expected
Rob and Katie were both right on top of my case from the start. My phone calls and emails were always answered promptly and their expertise in labor law was obvious. I expected to pursue unpaid overtime only but Rob also went after severance pay and got it. Highly recommended.
Posted by Jim | August 28, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Employment Law Attorney
Robert and his associates are dedicated professionals who are extremely knowledgeable and responsive to the needs of the client. I have used Robert on numerous occasions in matters related to labor law with great success. I would recommend Robert to anyone in need of employment, labor, discrimination or sexual harassment issues.
Posted by Rita | August 14, 2015
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent Attorney - Extremely Intelligent, Knowledgeable & Detailed
It is my privilege to recommend Robert Fortgang, an excellent lawyer who specializes in employment issues. Robert is extremely intelligent – he is very resourceful. He listens to you and provides answers to all your questions. I have consulted him (and his assistant Sarah) more than once and he (and she) has never made me feel like I was a bother – despite such extremely busy schedule they must have. For these reasons, I will always drive an hour and a half to go to this law firm – and not consult with any other attorney other than him (I live in Worcester, Massachusetts area – where many attorneys are abundant – but yet none of them are able to provide the superior client care that he can deliver, and with extreme detail). Any person who finds his/herself facing legal concerns regarding employment should not go anywhere else other than to Robert, as he possess a strong knowledge and genuine interest in helping individuals.
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Posted by Judy | February 24, 2015
A highly competent, dedicated and compassionate Attorney
Rob is an excellent attorney and I recommend him to anyone who is seeking assistance with an employment issue. I was amazed at his knowledge of the labor laws and how quickly he responded to my questions. He is truly dedicated to his clients. This man answers his own calls which is basically unheard of in his profession. I was never left wondering where my case was going as he kept me informed throughout the entire process. Rob was able to negotiate an outcome that satisfied me and he accomplished this in much less time than I had anticipated. Rob Fortgang is a highly competent, knowledgeable and hardworking attorney who had my best interest in mind throughout the entire process.
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Posted by Daniel | December 27, 2014
Guidance needed
Although I was unable to secure Attorney Fortgang for my services. He did offer me excellent information and guidance for my hearing.I am now in a position to obtain his expertise.
Posted by Barbara | June 17, 2014
Trustworthy, reliable and efficient
From my first phone call to Mr. Fortgang's office, which he answered, I knew I would be in good hands. He and his associate were professional and knowledgeable when handling my recent case for unemployment. Although this was a difficult experience for me, Mr.Fortgang was kind yet assertive. I appreciate everything he has done for me and I would recommend him to anyone who is looking for an outstanding attorney.
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Posted by anonymous | January 3, 2014
Reliable, Supportive. "He is there when you need him".
No matter when you need him, "Robert Fortgang is there", he is reliable and informative and very supportive, and he knows his field. On Christmas Eve day my husband was on the road and someone passed him on the right side in a breakdown lane to turn right as he was going straight. Her car struck his back tire in her turning. I reached out to Mr. Fortgang, and he was professional, supportive and said he would be there if he was needed. Although we did not have to hire him as it was resolved. I felt secure in knowing he genuinely cared and gave the verbal support that was needed to get me through and shared a wisdom of how to be supportive to my husband. I strongly recommend Robert Fortgang on the basis of trusting that he will not only support you professionally but he will also show respect and give the support needed emotionally.
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Posted by Jenny | September 26, 2013
Quick, efficient, supportive and personable
Rob and Sarah helped me with a severance agreement. Several alternatives were explained and I was provided with information that helped me fully understand the options and, ultimately, come to a decision. Rob's knowledge of employment law truly did result in the best outcome for me. Just as important, I was kept in the loop through each stage of the process. This was a huge relief for me, knowing that a personal situation was being handled by skilled attorneys who had my best interest in mind.
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Posted by Raj | June 7, 2013
Very knowledgeable & responsive labor attorney
I recently had Rob review a severance agreement, on referral from another attorney who did not have time to take the case. On very short notice, Rob gave me practical advice, and later helped craft some modifications which were subsequently accepted by the employer. He also answers his own phone--a rarity in his profession! I would highly recommend him for employment/labor matters.
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Cost

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Senior Vice President and Counsel, Human Resources
  • Connecticut Small Business Federation
  • 1984 - Present
  • Counsel, Human Resources
  • Connecticut Human Resource Reports
  • 1984 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Robert Fortgang Associates
  • 1984 - Present
  • Director of Industrial Relations and Small Business Services
  • Connecticut Business & Industry Association
  • 1982 - 1984
  • Assistant Director of Human Resources
  • The Hartford Courant
  • 1980 - 1982
  • Personnel Manager
  • Gerber Scientific Instrument Company
  • 1978 - 1980
  • Compensation Analyst
  • Aetna Life & Casualty
  • 1976 - 1978
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Bridgeport School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1980
  • Adelphi University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1972

Legal Cases

  • 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 Department
  • The matter was settled prior to trial.
  • David Donovan v. Anderson Merchandisers
  • The matter was amicably settled prior to trial.
View all legal cases

Associations

  • United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit
  • Admitted as an Attorney
  • 2008 - Present
  • Connecticut Employment Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2007 - Present
  • Simsbury Chamber of Commerce
  • Member
  • 1997 - Present
  • Connecticut Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1980 - Present
  • Connecticut Bar Association, Labor & Employment Law Section
  • Member
  • 1980 - Present
View all associations

Honors and Awards

  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2015
  • Clients' Choice 2012
  • Avvo
  • 2012

Publications

  • Connecticut Human Resource Reports, LLC
  • Legal Counsel and contributor of employment related forms and articles, including the At-Will Hiring Package
  • 1999
  • Personnelly Speaking©
  • Series of monthly newsletters for the membership of the Connecticut Small Business Federation
  • 1998
  • Employee Manual Maker©
  • Chief legal consultant and Senior contributing author
  • 1994
  • Connecticut Heating & Cooling Contractors Human Resource Publication
  • How To Develop an Employee Handbook
  • 1993
  • Personnelly Speaking©
  • Series of monthly newsletters for the membership of the Connecticut Association of Builders and Contractors
  • 1990
  • Personnelly Speaking©
  • Series of monthly newsletters for the membership of the Connecticut Society of Association Executives
  • 1989
  • Personnelly Speaking©
  • Negligent Hiring ...Choose With Care
  • 1989
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Employment Issues Update
  • Hiring, Firing & Managing In-Between
  • 2011
  • Windsor Chamber of Commerce
  • The Employment Law Answer Man
  • 2010
  • Simsbury Public Library
  • Help! I think my job is in jeopardy.
  • 2009
  • Granby Public Library
  • Employment Law Answer Man
  • 2009
  • Avon Public Library
  • Hiring, Firing & Managing In-between
  • 2009
  • Connecticut Club Managers Association Educational Conference
  • Contemporary Legal Issues Affecting Employment
  • 1998
  • Connecticut Club Managers Association Educational Conference
  • An Examination of Some Critical Legal Issues Affecting Connecticut Employers
  • 1997
  • Connecticut Club Managers Association Educational Conference
  • Preventing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace & Hiring, Firing & Managing-in-between
  • 1997
  • New England Wholesalers Convention
  • How To Avoid Employee Lawsuits
  • 1993
  • 1992 International Remodeling Contractors Association
  • Strategies To Stay One Step Ahead
  • 1992
  • West Hartford Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Seminar Series
  • Wage & Hour Laws and Labor Practices
  • 1991
  • CSCPS's Industry, Government and Education Conference
  • Legal Issues Affecting Employment
  • 1991
  • CECA - Management Seminar
  • Federal & State Minimum Wage and Overtime Laws
  • 1990
  • A Personnel Compliance Seminar
  • How to Meet Your Legal Obligations
  • 1990
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (42)
Given (83)
Endorse Robert
Employment and labor Attorney | Feb 01
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."
Employment and labor Attorney | Apr 15
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."
Wrongful termination Attorney | May 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Arbitration Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Robert. Highly respected in the legal community with a strong reputation for client advocacy and dedication."
Employment and labor Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Robert is an extremely competent employment lawyer. I recommend him highly."
Employment and labor Attorney | May 22
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."
Arbitration Attorney | May 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A highly skilled and respected lawyer in the legal community."
Arbitration Attorney | May 13
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."
Unknown Attorney | May 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"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."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"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."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"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."
Employment and labor Attorney | Apr 11
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."
Employment and labor Attorney | Apr 11
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!"
Unknown Attorney | Apr 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"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."
Employment and labor Attorney | Apr 11
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."
Arbitration Attorney | Apr 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A highly skilled and respected lawyer in the legal community."
Employment and labor Attorney | Apr 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Employment and labor Attorney | Jan 10
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"
View more endorsements