About John
John M. Kreutzer: Experienced Employment Litigation Attorney in Portland
John M. Kreutzer is a highly experienced and dedicated attorney specializing in all aspects of employment law. With a proven track record of success in defending employers against a wide range of claims, he provides strategic legal counsel and aggressive litigation support to protect the interests of his clients. Mr. Kreutzer’s firm, Smith Freed Eberhard, recognizes his expertise and leverages his experience to deliver exceptional results.
Mr. Kreutzer’s practice focuses on employment litigation, advice, and counseling. His litigation experience encompasses representing employers in the defense of claims for discrimination and harassment in the workplace, protected leave and disability claims, wage and hour claims, actions based on breach of contract, including non-competition agreement defense and enforcement, and trade secret violation claims. He possesses significant experience in the defense of both class and representative actions, demonstrating a thorough understanding of complex legal strategies.
Prior to joining Smith Freed Eberhard, Mr. Kreutzer honed his skills at a prominent law firm in Portland, Oregon, where he represented employers in complex employment litigation matters. His background further includes service as a Special Assistant Attorney General, where he defended state interests in challenging employment-related claims. This unique experience provides him with a deep understanding of the legal landscape and the perspectives of both employers and employees.
Key Areas of Expertise:
Mr. Kreutzer’s expertise spans a comprehensive range of employment law issues, including:
- Discrimination & Harassment Defense: He vigorously defends employers against claims of discrimination based on protected characteristics (race, gender, religion, age, disability, etc.) and harassment allegations.
- Protected Leave & Disability Claims: Mr. Kreutzer provides counsel and representation in cases involving the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and other leave-related legal issues.
- Wage & Hour Litigation: He effectively defends employers against claims related to overtime pay, minimum wage violations, and other wage and hour disputes.
- Breach of Contract Defense: Mr. Kreutzer has extensive experience in defending employers against breach of contract claims, with a particular focus on non-competition agreement defense and enforcement, ensuring the protection of legitimate business interests.
- Trade Secret & Confidential Information Protection: He provides expert counsel and representation in the defense of trade secret violations, safeguarding valuable business assets.
Representative Cases:
Mr. Kreutzer’s track record includes successfully defending:
- A national real estate investment and property management company and its on-site manager against claims of disability discrimination and wrongful death.
- A national inventory service provider against claims of constructive wrongful discharge brought by three former managers.
- A national timber products inspection provider against a national Fair Labor Standards Act representative action.
Additional Services & Strategic Support:
Beyond litigation, Mr. Kreutzer offers comprehensive advice and counseling to employers on a variety of employment law matters, including:
- Risk Assessments & Compliance Audits: He conducts thorough risk assessments to identify potential legal vulnerabilities and recommends strategies for compliance.
- Policy Development & Review: Mr. Kreutzer assists in developing and reviewing employment policies to ensure they align with legal requirements and best practices.
- Employee Training: He provides training to employers and employees on relevant employment law topics, promoting a compliant and respectful workplace.
- Negotiation & Settlement Support: He strategically negotiates settlements on behalf of his clients, aiming to minimize legal costs and protect their interests.
Education & Credentials:
- Bar Admissions: Oregon State Bar
- Awards: Recognized: Employment Law – Individuals, Recognized: Employment Law – Management, Recognized: Insurance Law, Best Lawyers in America – Oregon, Oregon Super Lawyers
- Recognition: Recognized Since: Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2016
Contact Information:
City: Portland, State: Oregon, Country: United States