About Peter
Peter Felmly: Leading Legal Counsel for Schools, Businesses, and Nonprofits in Maine
Peter Felmly is a highly respected legal professional dedicated to providing comprehensive and strategic solutions for public schools, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. With over a decade of experience specializing in school, employment, and labor law, Mr. Felmly consistently delivers timely, creative, and results-oriented counsel, navigating the complex legal landscape to protect his clients’ interests and ensure regulatory compliance. He is deeply committed to understanding the unique challenges faced by his clients and developing bespoke strategies to achieve their goals. His expertise spans a wide range of legal issues, offering invaluable guidance and peace of mind.
Mr. Felmly’s practice centers around meticulous attention to detail and a thorough understanding of state and federal laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Maine Human Rights Act, and the Whistleblowers’ Protection Act. He regularly advises supervisors, HR professionals, and school board members on critical areas such as hiring practices, discipline and discharge procedures, robust workplace investigations, accurate employee classification, and competitive compensation strategies. He understands the importance of proactive measures and assists clients in developing comprehensive employee training programs and implementing effective employment agreements and separation agreements.
Recognized as a leading expert in his field, Mr. Felmly demonstrates a proactive approach, frequently representing clients at the bargaining table, during grievance arbitration proceedings, and before key administrative agencies including the Maine Human Rights Commission, the Maine Labor Relations Board, and the Department of Labor. His extensive litigation experience provides him with a valuable perspective, allowing him to advise clients on the strength of their position, identify potential risks, and develop strategies to achieve optimal outcomes. He is a skilled advocate dedicated to protecting his clients’ rights and minimizing legal exposure.
Beyond his work with businesses and organizations, Mr. Felmly possesses specialized expertise in education law, offering critical counsel to schools regarding student constitutional rights, compliance with Maine’s Freedom of Access Act, and adherence to a myriad of state and federal regulations governing educational institutions. He’s adept at navigating the intricacies of school governance and ensuring institutions operate within the bounds of the law.
Awards & Recognition
Mr. Felmly’s dedication to excellence has been consistently recognized through prestigious accolades, including his inclusion in Best Attorney USA since 2020, as well as recognition by New England Super Lawyers in the areas of Employment & Labor, Schools & Education, and Employment Litigation. He is also the esteemed editor of the widely respected Maine School Law and Practice for Board Members, currently published in its 6th Edition (2023) and 5th Edition (2017), and a key co-author of the *Maine School Law* series, including the 6th edition (2018), 5th Edition (2014), and 4th Edition (2012). These resources are invaluable tools for school board members seeking to understand and implement school law effectively.
Ongoing Contributions to the Legal Community
Mr. Felmly is frequently invited to present on a diverse range of topics, showcasing his deep knowledge and commitment to the legal community. These presentations cover critical areas such as effective hiring practices, developing robust teacher evaluations, conducting thorough investigations into staff misconduct, understanding employees’ and students’ rights under the First, Fourth, and Fourteenth Amendments, formulating successful collective bargaining strategies, and addressing copyright law concerns. His expertise extends to higher education, as he has also taught graduate-level school law courses at the University of Southern Maine.
Personal Interests
Outside of his professional life, Mr. Felmly enjoys a well-rounded lifestyle, spending quality time with his wife, two daughters, and their beloved black lab. He is an avid fly fisherman, passionate camper, and enthusiastic hiker, and he also cherishes opportunities for travel. These activities reflect his commitment to a balanced and fulfilling life.
Practice Areas
- Education Law
- Employment Law - Management
- Labor Law - Management
Bar Admissions
Mr. Felmly holds active bar admissions in Maine, demonstrating his commitment to providing exceptional legal representation.
