Brian R. Carnie

"Employers at all phases of the business lifecycle appreciate that I understand, from a business perspective, the challenges they face and that I blend common sense with sound legal theory and actionable solutions. By putting myself in their shoes when analyzing HR issues and responses, I can more accurately assess and mitigate risk, liability, and exposure in and out of court and before a host of administrative agencies."

Brian Carnie dedicates his practice exclusively to the representation of management's interests in virtually all aspects of labor and employment law. He delivers human resource solutions and legal counsel focused on planning for, anticipating, and responding to both the routine and unexpected HR issues that impact growth and profitability. He is dedicated to achieving each client’s desired outcome and maintains a successful track record of resolving – both in and out of court – complex litigation and class action claims.

Brian has successfully defended state and federal court litigation claims and advocated employer rights before administrative agencies involving wrongful discharge, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, workplace tort, breach of contract, FMLA, and OSHA whistleblower claims. He brings extensive skill to advising on the Fair Labor Standards Act, collective wage and hour cases, and Americans with Disabilities Act access cases, otherwise known as “drive-by” or “Google” lawsuits.

In addition to his litigation practice, Brian guides employers through complex disability and leave issues, sexual harassment investigations, workforce reorganizations and layoffs, wage and hour investigations, worker misclassification, and I-9 audits. He routinely represents management in collective bargaining, union grievances, and arbitrations, as well as provides businesses with effective union avoidance strategies.

Moreover, Brian helps employers understand and comply with the ever-changing rules and regulations under the Affordable Care Act. His experience includes practical guidance on employer responsibilities, compliance and testing, reporting and notice requirements, and representation of employers who challenge the IRS ACA penalty notices and appeals of demands for payment.

Responsive, considerate, and practical, Brian is about providing legal solutions communicated in a manner that is easily understood and applicable to the business he represents. Clients appreciate Brian’s attention to detail and sound explanations when it comes to solving their problems and addressing their concerns. He is valued for his ability to support, lead, and influence conversations that impact human resource decisions, as well as for consistently delivering personalized advice that minimizes workforce management risk and leverages human potential across all operational imperatives.

Prior to private practice in Louisiana, Brian practiced management-side employment law for over 10 years in Chicago, Illinois. Brian also served as an attorney for the Louisiana Second Circuit Court of Appeals. Notably, he assisted nine appellate judges in ruling on all motions, civil and criminal writs, criminal appeals, and pro se post-conviction writs, and acted as a legal advisor to the Clerk of Court.

Brian's early exposure to the inner workings of the court continues to significantly and positively impact his clients today. The experience provided him with an in-depth understanding of the appellate process and the ability to more effectively navigate complex legal issues, identify potential pitfalls, and develop sound legal strategies for his clients. Moreover, his role as a legal advisor to the Clerk of Court provided him valuable insights into court procedures and administrative processes, resulting in more streamlined and efficient case management today.