Steve represents employers in a wide variety of employment matters in state and federal court and before the North Carolina Industrial Commission, United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, North Carolina Employment Security Commission, State of North Carolina Office of Administrative Hearings, United States Department of Labor, and the North Carolina Department of Labor. In addition, Steve represents business, insurance and housing authority clients in a wide range of matters in state and federal court. Steve regularly advises clients on employment issues and matters and is a frequent speaker on employment law topics.
Representative Experience
Harris v. Matthews, 361 N.C. 265, 643 S.E.2d 566 (2007)-Counsel for church pastor in lawsuit arising from internal church governance dispute. The plaintiffs, representing the minority of the congregation, sued the pastor and other church officials for alleged mismanagement of church resources. Successfully argued to the North Carolina Supreme Court that the trial court did not have jurisdiction over the case, as the First Amendment prohibits involvement in matters of religious doctrine and practice.
Jacobs vs. Mallard Creek Presbyterian Church, Inc. et al., 214 F. Supp. 2d 552; WDNC 2002 - Represented Church, Presbytery, and other Defendants being sued by minister, who claimed he was harmed by the procedural actions taken by the church administration in investigating allegations of misconduct. Obtained dismissal of all Defendants.
Charlene Eley v. Rocky Mount Family YMCA, et al., 536 S.E.2d 71, 1999 N.C. LEXIS 413 - Represented YMCA and others in action brought by former employee. Former employee’s claims included conspiracy, defamation, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and tortious interference with contract. Obtained dismissal of all claims and dismissal of appeal to the North Carolina Court of Appeals. Petition for discretionary review was denied by the North Carolina Supreme Court.
Dana N. Bowen vs. Moye and Reedy Branch Free Will Baptist Church, 99 CVS 2346, Superior Court of Pitt County - Represented Church being sued by Church member, who alleged was harmed by the choir director. Obtained judgment on the pleadings in favor of the Church.
Marvin E. Cobb vs. Rocky Mount Board of Education, 335 N.C. 236, 439 S.E.2d 143 (1993) - Represented Board of Education in regard to petition for reinstatement by former employee. Trial Court affirmed Board of Education’s decision, which was affirmed by the North Carolina Court of Appeals. Petition for discretionary review was denied by the North Carolina Supreme Court.
Margie Leonard v. Piggly Wiggly, 1994 U.S. App. LEXIS 27677 (4th Cir. 1991) - Represented store in premises liability claim. Obtained summary judgment for the store, which was affirmed on appeal.
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