A regular speaker and author on labor and employment issues, Leni D. Battaglia defends employers in courts and tribunals around the United States. Leni also develops litigation-avoidance strategies for clients across industries, including financial services, technology, retail & ecommerce, hospitality, and entertainment. Leni serves as co-leader of the firm's fashion and luxury brands team.
In addition to wage and hour class and collective matters, Leni litigates harassment, discrimination, disability, retaliation, and whistleblower claims. He also represents clients in contract, noncompete, and trade secret matters.
In the realm of preventative practice, Leni counsels on COVID-19 workforce issues, crisis management, harassment and #MeToo issues, arbitration agreements, compensation plans, independent contractor and exemption classification, restrictive covenants, and employment policies. He regularly conducts internal audits and navigates employers through investigations brought by federal and state agencies. Leni also conducts trainings and works with employers to create safe, respectful, diverse, and inclusive workplaces. Leni frequently comments in the news media, and writes articles on these subjects.
Leni enjoys an active pro bono practice and is a recipient of numerous awards, including the Award for Pro Bono Service from the New York City Family Court and the Award for Outstanding Pro Bono Service from the Legal Aid Society of New York, and has repeatedly received the Empire State Counsel Honor (NY).
Leni received his J.D. with honors from the University of Connecticut School of Law, where he was notes and comments editor of the Connecticut Law Review, national competitor for the Connecticut Moot Court Board, and on the Executive Board of the Public Interest Law Group. Prior to law school, Leni conducted social science research in Brazil as a recipient of the Congressional David L. Boren Scholarship. He is conversant in Spanish and Portuguese.
Recognized, Litigation - Labor and Employment, New York, The Best Lawyers in America (2024)
Member, Practice Group of the Year, Employment, Law360 (2017, 2019)
Recognized, Rising Star (New York Metro Area), Super Lawyers (2013–2017)
New York Empire State Counsel Honoree for pro bono service (2007–2010, 2013–2014)
2013 Award for Pro Bono Service, New York City Family Court
2006 Award for Outstanding Pro Bono Service, Legal Aid Society of NY
Member, American Bar Association
Member, New York State Bar Association