Firm News September 2, 2026
Troutman Pepper Locke Adds Labor and Employment Partner Lauren Emery in Chicago
CHICAGO – Lauren Emery has joined Troutman Pepper Locke’s Labor and Employment Practice Group as a partner in the Chicago office. As former senior staff counsel to the chairman of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), she brings significant experience handling NLRB proceedings and management-side traditional labor and employment matters.
Emery joins Troutman Pepper Locke from Morgan Lewis, where she advised employers on complex labor disputes and litigation, collective bargaining, negotiations, union campaigns, labor arbitrations, labor-related aspects of mergers and acquisitions, corporate restructurings, and other union-related matters.
“Lauren’s time at the NLRB gives her an insider’s perspective on the key regulations and issues employers are facing today,” said Paul Nason, leader of the firm’s Labor and Employment Practice Group. “As demand for traditional labor counsel continues to grow, her background and proven track record in complex disputes will benefit our clients and national platform.”
Since her time at the NLRB, Emery has built a practice spanning National Labor Relations Act litigation, including all stages of NLRB unfair labor practice and representation proceedings and appeals. She has substantial experience advising clients across novel and complex cases, including joint employer issues, the Cemex doctrine, noncompete developments, and enforceable employment contracts and policies.
“Lauren’s arrival reflects our continued focus on investing in talented lawyers who can become the next generation of leaders at the firm, while also strengthening our presence in Chicago,” added Andrea Verney Kerstein, managing partner of Troutman Pepper Locke’s Chicago office. “Her depth of experience, entrepreneurial approach, and energy make her a tremendous addition to the office and the firm.”
“The firm’s national platform and the strength of its labor and employment capabilities provide an ideal environment to continue growing my practice,” said Emery. “I am eager to work alongside a talented team and contribute to our clients’ success.”
Troutman Pepper Locke’s Labor and Employment Practice Group represents employers in the most sensitive workplace matters, allowing clients to focus on running their businesses. The team handles labor and employment issues at the national, international, and regional levels for clients ranging from Fortune 100 companies to emerging businesses. Troutman Pepper Locke’s attorneys advise on every type of employment issue a company can face, at every stage of the employment life cycle.
Troutman Pepper Locke
Troutman Pepper Locke helps clients solve complex legal challenges and achieve their business goals in an ever-changing global economy. With more than 1,600 attorneys in 30+ offices, the firm serves clients in all major industry sectors, with particular depth in energy, financial services, health care and life sciences, insurance and reinsurance, private equity, and real estate. Learn more at troutman.com.
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