The general rule in New York is that an employee who does not work under an agreement for a definite term of employment is an “at-will” employee: She or he may be terminated at any time, with or without cause, for any reason whatsoever. Earlier this year, New York State’s highest court reaffirmed this general rule, and made a clear showing that it will guard closely against efforts to encroach on it. In Smalley v. Dreyfus Corp., 10 N.Y.3d 55, 853 N.Y.S.2d 270 (2008), the plaintiffs were a group of employees at the Taxable Fixed Income Group at Dreyfus. Each employee was hired at different times over a three year period. Both prior to and during their employment, rumors had been circulating that this group might be merged with another fund management company. Allegedly, the employees asked repeatedly about these rumors, and allegedly, these rumors were repeatedly and flatly denied. … [Read more...] about No End-Around for the At Will Employee
Archives for 2008
International Scope
Vincenti & Vincenti has extensive experience in providing legal counseling on an international level, both to overseas businesses planning to venture into U.S. markets and to U.S. companies operating multi-nationally. … [Read more...] about International Scope
Trademarks
As a result of the firm’s diverse clientele, we have developed a unique expertise in intellectual property matters, dealing primarily with trademarks, trade secrets, proprietary information and unfair competition. … [Read more...] about Trademarks
Litigation
Our firm’s litigation services are unparalleled. We provide seasoned experience, developed over many years, as aggressive advocates in federal and state trial and appellate courts, and before both domestic and international alternative dispute resolution tribunals. … [Read more...] about Litigation
Corporate, Commercial, Financial
Our firm provides legal services that cover the entire spectrum of business, financial and corporate activities, including: mergers and acquisitions, antitrust and trade regulation, commercial real estate, leveraged buyouts, and many more. … [Read more...] about Corporate, Commercial, Financial