“It is undisputed that, prior to [Plaintiff]’s reassignment, he held the position of Branch Chief…, and that, in this position, he supervised a staff of approximately fifteen, consisting of attorneys, paralegals, and a secretary.  It is also undisputed that, after [Plaintiff]’s February 2006 reassignment to the position of staff attorney for the Superfund legal branch, he no longer supervised other EPA employees. The jury could reasonably have found that an involuntary reassignment resulting in the elimination of supervisory responsibilities could dissuade a reasonable worker from asserting a charge of discrimination, and that the involuntary reassignment was an adverse employment action.”

Benton v. U.S. E.P.A., 2014 WL 2862309, at *4 (N.D. Tex. June 24, 2014) (Fitzwater, J.).

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Photo of Nicole M. Conger Nicole M. Conger

We asked Nicole M. Conger, a Trial Attorney in the Austin office of Rob Wiley, P.C., to provide her extroverted answers to a range of questions.  After reading, you will be more more reasoned on the cognizance and finesse that Ms. Conger

We asked Nicole M. Conger, a Trial Attorney in the Austin office of Rob Wiley, P.C., to provide her extroverted answers to a range of questions.  After reading, you will be more more reasoned on the cognizance and finesse that Ms. Conger exudes.

1. What do you like most about being an employment lawyer?

Client interaction.  I love being a lawyer because it gives me the opportunity to use the law to make someone’s life better.  It also allows me to immerse myself with others by following my own instinct.  I could not ask for more.

2. What is the most important issue to you of being an advocate?

America is a society based on law and justice.  The most important issue of being an advocate is listening and using creativity to make this ideal a reality for clients, however small.

3. What is the most satisfying part of working for Rob Wiley, P.C.?

Establishing a career with someone who is 100% dedicated to his attorneys and the growth of our law firm.  Mr. Wiley is exceedingly business savvy and demonstrates his profound knowledge of labor and employment law with every client interaction, marketing strategy, and relationship that he engages in.

4. What do you think is the most important part of a good case?

Clients who have a strong personnel record.  I think that a good performance history shows the jury and judge what an admirable employee that person was to the employer.

5. What would you say to HR of a company about how to treat employees?

I would advise the Director of Human Resources or CEO to use the Golden Rule.  That is, treat employees and others the same way that he or she would like to be treated.  I cannot underline how important it is to empathize with others.

6. Besides Rob Wiley, P.C., what is the most interesting job that you have had?

I worked at Banana Republic and Barneys New York throughout undergrad.  Working in retail with normal customers who have immediate issues to high-end clientele with ongoing desires really made me understand how to respond to different personalities in each situation.

7. What personality trait do you like most about yourself?

I am extremely compassionate.  I think it is so important to let other people know that you appreciate them.

8. What makes you laugh?

Great company and friends.

9. Where do you like to travel?

Anywhere that has a beach!  Australia is actually on my bucket list because I think it is gorgeous.

10. What’s the best part of living in Austin?

Austin is arguably the country’s best for outdoor activities and recreation.  The Boardwalk Trail at Lady Bird Lake, Barton Springs, and Deep Eddy are just a few of the highlights.  The fun factor cannot be beat: In the self-proclaimed live-music capital of the world, music, food, people and businesses emerge and flourish!

Nicole M. Conger is a Trial Attorney in the Austin office of Rob Wiley, P.C.  She graduated summa cum laude from The University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s degree in business management in 2006.  Ms. Conger went on and received her law degree magna cum laude from St. Mary’s University School of Law in 2011.