I’m in a serious bind: I’ve submitted a detailed demand in a whistleblower, ADA, and retaliation case (against a nonprofit), with active complaints filed to EEOC, OSHA, and NLRB. Their EPLI defense firm is set to respond by April 18, and I’m now completely unrepresented after losing my attorney mid-process. I’ve already done all the groundwork—drafted the demand, compiled evidence, etc.—but I can’t get anyone to take over. What are my options to secure counsel immediately, even on a limited-scope or contingency basis, given how far along this is?
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Hello! My name is Dolan and thank you so much for contacting me! I just had a few quick questions for you: If I can clarify, is this stuck with one of those administrative agencies or is this in court?
Thanks so much for getting back to me. At this point, the matter is still in the pre-litigation phase and not yet filed in court. I’ve submitted a detailed settlement demand, and the employer’s EPLI defense counsel (Wilson Elser) is scheduled to respond by tomorrow, April 18. In parallel, I’ve filed administrative complaints with EEOC (dual-filed with the Arizona Civil Rights Division), OSHA/ADOSH, and the NLRB—but none of those are resolved yet, and I’m hoping to resolve this before litigation if possible.
Sure thing! What state is this in again?
This is in Arizona
I'm so sorry about this situation! I want to address your situation with a detailed response, so if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask! 1. Ok so Arizona, several organizations offer legal aid or referrals https://www.azlawhelp.org/articles_info.cfm?articleid=129&mc=2≻=18 I don’t have any contacts but try clicking here Also, try this link - https://www.lawyerlegion.com/lawyer-referral-directory You can also try Lawrina - https://lawrina.org/match/ ContractsCounsel.com (this website) has lawyers you can find as well. - https://app.contractscounsel.com/client/create-project/step-h1 Sometimes, the local law schools can provide free legal assistance, too. Yelp.com is a surprisingly good place to find lawyers. You can also find a lawyer on the Legal Services Corporation website. The LSC is an independent non-profit organization authorized by Congress in 1974 to help people find legal aid services (https://www.lsc.gov/what-legal-aid/find-legal-aid). In Arizona, you can use the courts website to find help - https://www.azcourts.gov/selfservicecenter/Self-Service-Center-Resources Try HKM Employment lawyers - https://hkm.com/phoenix/retaliation-whistleblower-claims/ Weiler law also is good - https://www.weilerlaw.com/phoenix-employment-law-attorney/whistleblower
Hi Dolan, Thank you so much for your thoughtful response and the time you took to put those resources together—I really appreciate it. To be transparent, I’ve spent the past several months reaching out to dozens of attorneys, and I’m feeling incredibly worn down by the process. I’ve already filed with the EEOC, OSHA/ADOSH, and the NLRB. I’ve submitted a detailed settlement demand and am now corresponding with the defense firm for their EPLI carrier. Everything is documented, organized, and ready to go—I’ve done all the legwork, but I need someone who’s willing to step in and help guide this across the finish line. I completely understand if this isn’t something you’re able to take on, but if there’s any chance this is a case you’d consider, I’d be deeply grateful to know. Even just a quick yes or no would help me figure out how to move forward. Thanks again for your time and kindness. Warmly, Ian Ohler-Romines rominesian@gmail.com 928-451-1905
I hear you, bro! I understand how difficult this must be. So eventually, they are LIKLELY TO SETTLE so even if you cant find a lawyer, you don't need one to negotiate here. One little known, but very effective tool that lawyers use to settle matters outside of court is called principled negotiation. All this means is that you are looking to get something done on the basis of principles, even if you can’t find a law to support you. It takes the anxiety out of dealing with the other side because you’re focused on the facts, not each other. With that said, here are some simple steps you can follow: Figure out what the other side’s interests are (saving money, saving time, etc.?); Think about what your interests are (saving money, saving time, etc.?); Come up with 2 to 3 reasonable and objective ways to solve the problem; Present it to the other side; If the other side rejects, ask them, “Is there a reason why you do not feel it is necessary to negotiate?” Consider what your best alternative to a negotiated agreement is. This will give you confidence that no matter what, you'll have an option. Of course, these are just building blocks to get the other party to help solve the dispute. Believe me when I say that good lawyers use this technique all the time to keep things out of court. You’ll find that it is very effective even with the most stubborn of individuals. Please let me know if this has answered your question fully. My goal is to ensure you’re satisfied with my service completely. Feel free to return here with additional questions or comments if you need more information, and thank you sincerely for your question and for using Just Answer as your source for legal information.
thank you i appreciate that
You've got it sir!