Mr. Schwartz-Fenwick is a partner in the Labor and Employment Practice Group of Seyfarth Shaw LLP. He is particularly well-versed in benefits-related litigation under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). Mr. Schwartz-Fenwick defends complex class actions and single-plaintiff lawsuits under ERISA. In the class action realm, he has defended various types of claims, including claims for benefits and claims for breach of fiduciary duty, including 401(k) fee litigation.
In addition to his ERISA litigation practice, Mr. Schwartz-Fenwick has significant experience in general employment matters. He regularly assists in the defense of complex litigation matters brought under the National Labor Relations Act, and represents clients in hearings before the National Labor Relations Board and in grievance arbitrations. Mr. Schwartz-Fenwick represents clients in litigation under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Illinois Human Rights Act. He also provides day-to-day counseling and advice to clients about the various laws affecting the employment relationship.
Mr. Schwartz-Fenwick speaks nationwide and publishes regularly on a variety of employment law and litigation topics, and issues regarding diversity and inclusion in the legal profession. He has also served as a contributor to Employee Benefits Law (ABA) and The Developing Labor Law (BNA), and developed in conjunction with Equality Illinois a best practices guide for Illinois employers on LGBT inclusion.
Mr. Schwartz-Fenwick leads the firm’s LGBT Affinity Group. He is a member of the executive committee of United Pride, the president of the board of Unsilence, a human rights educational organization, and serves on multiple committees at his synagogue.
