Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP has petitioned a Florida state judge to compel arbitration in a defamation lawsuit filed by a former paralegal. The firm contends that the claims should be resolved through arbitration, as stipulated in the employment agreement.
The former paralegal alleges that actions taken by Lewis Brisbois damaged her reputation and led to the loss of a subsequent job opportunity. In response, the firm asserts that the employment contract includes a binding arbitration clause, necessitating that such disputes be addressed outside of court.
Lewis Brisbois, established in 1979, operates as a full-service law firm with over 1,500 attorneys across 55 offices in 32 states and Washington, D.C. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lewis_Brisbois_Bisgaard_%26_Smith?utm_source=openai)) The firm has a significant presence in Florida, with offices in Coral Gables, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa. ([lewisbrisbois.com](https://lewisbrisbois.com/about/locations/miami-fl?utm_source=openai))
Arbitration clauses are common in employment agreements, aiming to provide a private and efficient means of resolving disputes. However, their enforceability can be contested, particularly in cases involving allegations like defamation. The outcome of this motion could have implications for how such clauses are interpreted and enforced in Florida.
As the case progresses, it will be closely monitored by legal professionals, given its potential impact on employment law and arbitration practices within the state.