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Eric Bachman

Eric Bachman is a Principal with Zuckerman Law, where he is the Chair of the discrimination and retaliation practices.  Bachman has served in senior positions at the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) and the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. His wins include a $100 million settlement in a Title VII employment discrimination class action, a $1.3 million jury verdict in an age discrimination case (tried with co-counsel), a record-setting Whistleblower Protection Act settlement at OSC, and a $16 million class action settlement against a major grocery chain.

Bachman writes for Forbes.com on employment law issues. And among other honors, he was named to the Best Lawyers in America list 2020 for Employment Law and Civil Rights, the National Law Review has twice recognized him with the “Go-To Thought Leader” award, and he has been named to the BestLawyers and SuperLawyers lists multiple times.  Further, Washingtonian magazine selected Bachman a Top Lawyer in Whistleblower Law, and the ABA Journal honored Glass Ceiling Discrimination Blog as one of the best legal blogs in the country.

Bachman holds extensive litigation experience, including trials in federal and state courts, and has also set important precedent on employment discrimination issues at the appellate level. Bachman litigates employment cases, including “glass ceiling” discrimination cases where an employee is denied a promotion because of their gender, race, national origin, religion or other protected characteristic.

As editor of the Glass Ceiling Discrimination blog, Bachman writes frequently on topics related to promotion discrimination, harassment, and other employment discrimination issues. Indeed, a federal court quoted Bachman’s Glass Ceiling Discrimination blog article related to Title VII discrimination issues in a recent opinion.  Before joining Zuckerman Law, Bachman served as Deputy Special Counsel, Litigation and Legal Affairs, at OSC from 2014 to February 2017.

Prior to that, he worked for five years as a Special Litigation Counsel and Senior Trial Attorney in the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice. Previously, Bachman was a partner in a Washington, DC civil rights law firm.

In cases against private companies and government agencies, he has litigated in federal courts across the country. Bachman began his career as a public defender and served as lead or co-counsel in numerous jury trials.

At the Department of Justice and the Office of Special Counsel, as well as during his career in private practice, Bachman has overseen investigations and litigated enforcement of Title VII employment discrimination cases and the Whistleblower Protection Act.

A sample of his reported cases and successes include:

  • Skalli-Hanna v. American University, 2015-CA-007118-B, (D.C. Sup. 2018) (Bachman won a $1.3 million judgment in a nearly month-long age discrimination jury trial along with co-counsel)
  • U.S. ex rel. Oberg v. PHEAA, No. 18-1028 (4th Cir. 2018) (Bachman served as lead counsel in the appeal of a False Claims Act case)
  • U.S. v. City of New York, 847 F.Supp.2d 395 (E.D.N.Y. 2012)
    (Bachman served as a lead counsel on this Title VII employment discrimination class action challenging the discriminatory hiring practices of the Fire Department of New York. He led a team of lawyers over several years in litigating this federal court case that involved six Special Masters, dozens of court opinions, multiple expert witnesses, the creation and validation of a new employment test, over a thousand class members, and ultimately resulted in an approximately $100 million settlement).
  • Sutton v. City of Chesapeake, 713 F.Supp.2d 547 (E.D. Va. 2010)
    (Bachman served as lead counsel on this novel employment discrimination case under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA)).
  • U.S. v. Franklin County, N.C., 5:09cv00415 (W.D.N.C. 2009)
    (Bachman served as lead counsel on this Title VII retaliation case that resulted in a consent decree).
  • Wade, et al. v. Kroger Co., 3:01-cv-699 (W.D. Ky. 2008) (Bachman helped to litigate and was appointed class counsel on this nationwide Title VII employment discrimination class action case).
  • Aleman, et al. v. Chugach, 485 F.3d 206 (4th Cir. 2007) (Bachman served as lead counsel, including the appellate briefing and argument, on this precedent-setting case that expanded federal anti-discrimination law protections).
  • Varghese v. Honeywell, 424 F.3d 411 (4th Cir. 2005) (Bachman briefed and argued this federal appellate decision regarding the Maryland Wage Payment & Collection Law and Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA)).
  • Rhodes, et al. v. Cracker Barrel, 213 F.R.D. 619 (N.D. Ga. 2003)
    (Bachman helped to litigate this nationwide Title VII employment discrimination class action case).
  • Thomas, et al. v. Cracker Barrel, 4:01-cv-325 (N.D. Ga. 2001)
    (Bachman helped to litigate this nationwide race discrimination in public accommodations class action case).

DISCLAIMER: INFORMATION ABOUT RESULTS ACHIEVED IN PRIOR CASES DOES NOT GUARANTEE OR PREDICT A SIMILAR RESULT IN FUTURE CASES. RESULTS WILL VARY BASED UPON A VARIETY OF FACTORS UNIQUE TO EACH CASE. REFERENCES TO PRIOR CLIENT ENGAGEMENTS ARE NOT INTENDED TO CONSTITUTE A GUARANTEE, WARRANTY, OR PREDICTION REGARDING THE OUTCOME OF YOUR LEGAL
MATTER.

  • Best Lawyers in America List 2021 for Employment Law and Civil Rights Law
  • Super Lawyers 2020 list for Washington DC 2020
  • Best Lawyers in America list 2020 for Employment Law and Civil Rights
  • Martindale-Hubbell© Peer Review Rating: AV® Preeminent, the highest possible rating (5.0/5.0) in both Legal Ability & Ethical Standards
  • National Law Review recognizes Eric Bachman with its “Go-To Thought Leader” award in 2018 and 2020
  • Washingtonian Magazine named Eric Bachman a Top Lawyer in 2017 + 2018
  • 2019 Featured Verdict Award – Eric Bachman’s $1.3 million jury verdict (tried with co-counsel) recognized by ALM/Verdict Search
  • ABA Journal chose Glass Ceiling Discrimination Blog for its WEB100 award, naming it a top legal blog in the United States
  • The U.S. Secretary of Labor appointed Bachman to serve on the Whistleblower Protection Advisory Committee from 2015 to 2017, which makes recommendations on how to improve federal whistleblower protections
  • U.S. Department of Justice – The Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service (one of the highest awards the Department bestows for employee performance) 2014
  • U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division – Distinguished Service Award 2013
  • U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division – Special Commendation for Outstanding Service 2012
  • U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division – Special Achievement Award 2010-2011
  • Member: United States Supreme Court; the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit; various federal district courts
  • Member: D.C. Bar Association; American Bar Association; National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA); and Metropolitan Washington Employment Lawyers Association (MWELA)
  • Member:  Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, DC

Bachman has testified at numerous Congressional hearings and is often quoted or interviewed on topics related to whistleblower and employment discrimination issues.  He is also a contributor at Forbes.com where he writes about executive employment and discrimination topics:

  • Law360 interviewed Eric Bachman about parental leave issues and employment litigation. August 31, 2021.
  • Business Insider interviewed Eric Bachman about age discrimination in the workplace and how to win these cases. June 30, 2021.
  • Law360 interviewed Eric Bachman about how a new law from Congress may impact age discrimination cases.  June 25, 2021.
  • The ABA Journal quoted Eric Bachman about the impact of Covid job losses on age discrimination in employment. September 30, 2020.
  • Bloomberg interviewed Eric Bachman about the Harvey Weinstein trial and the impact of the #metoo movement.  Bloomberg.  January 5, 2020.
  • The AARP interviewed Eric Bachman about “Steps to Fight Against Age Discrimination.”  AARP.  December 30, 2019.
  • “7 Signs You’ve Been A Victim of Age Discrimination,” quotes Eric Bachman.  AARP.   December 30, 2019.
  • PBS Newshour quotes Eric Bachman regarding whistleblower issues related to President Trump impeachment.  September 27, 2019.
  • Forbes.com publishes Eric Bachman’s article, “Here’s why retaliation claims are easier to prove in court than discrimination claims” September 4, 2019.
  • ABC News interviews Eric Bachman about President Trump’s “go back” tweets to four minority Congresswomen and how this evidence may be used in an employment discrimination lawsuit.  ABC News.  July 17, 2019.
  • Eric Bachman interviewed about Google’s ongoing employment retaliation issues.  Medium.  May 2, 2019.
  • Forbes.com runs Eric Bachman’s piece about the EEOC’s enforcement of genetic information discrimination complaints.  April 24, 2019.
  • Fortune spoke with Eric Bachman regarding sexual harassment and settlement negotiation topics.  March 25, 2019.
  • Bloomberg BNA interviews Eric Bachman regarding age discrimination and class action issues.  January 22, 2019.
  • “If you are 50+ you are likely to be pushed out of your job, so plan now.”  Eric Bachman, Forbes.Com, January 16, 2019.
  • Forbes.com publishes article on pregnancy discrimination and disability discrimination by Eric Bachman.  December 19, 2018.
  • Eric Bachman interviewed about best practices for negotiations in sexual harassment cases and severance agreements.  December 6, 2018.  Simone.
  • Crisis Communications speaks with Eric Bachman about the age discrimination lawsuit filed against a NBA team.  December 4, 2018.
  • Forbes.com runs Eric Bachman’s article on new research about the glass ceiling in corporate America.   November 19, 2018.
  • Eric Bachman’s piece on the spike in EEOC discrimination cases in wake of #MeToo movement is published in Forbes.com.  October 5, 2018.
  • Forbes.com published Eric Bachman’s article on glass ceiling pioneer, Ann Hopkins.  Forbes.com.  July 19, 2018.
  • “Why Serena Williams’ Tennis Ranking Matters In the Corporate World” is published by Forbes.com.  June 28, 2018.
  • Eric Bachman’s reporting on whether gig workers have protections against discrimination.  Forbes.com.  June 14, 2018.
  • Forbes.com published Eric Bachman’s article on tying executive bonuses to diversity issues.  Forbes.com. June 7, 2018.
  • Barrons quoted Eric Bachman about sexual harassment issues plaguing the financial services industry.  Barrons.  April 12, 2018.
  • Law 360 spoke with Eric Bachman about potential whistleblower retaliation claims related to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) leader Scott Pruitt.  Law 360.  April 9, 2018.
  • Eric Bachman interviewed by WealthManagement.com about the #metoo movement in the financial services industry.  WealthManagement.com.  April 8, 2018.
  • Law360 spoke with Eric Bachman about the ongoing litigation related to the Harvey Weinstein sexual harassment controversy.  Law360.  February 12, 2018.
  • Bloomberg Law interviewed Eric Bachman about protections against employment discrimination for independent contractors/gig workers.  Bloomberg Law.  February 9, 2018.
  • Law360 quoted Eric Bachman about best practices for preventing workplace sexual harassment.  Law360.  January 2, 2018.
  • Eric Bachman interviewed about how to report sexual harassment.  Lifehacker.  December 18, 2017.
  • Interview with Eric Bachman about the impact of arbitration agreements on sexual harassment cases, “The Why” news program on Newsy, October 23. 2017
WHEN REVIEWING INFORMATION ABOUT TESTIMONIALS OR STATEMENTS REGARDING A LAWYER’S QUALITY, CONSIDER THAT 1) THE FACTS AND CIRCUMSTANCES OF YOUR CASE MAY DIFFER FROM THE MATTERS IN WHICH RESULTS AND TESTIMONIALS HAVE BEEN PROVIDED; 2) ALL RESULTS OF CASES HANDLED BY JASON ZUCKERMAN ARE NOT PROVIDED AND NOT ALL CLIENTS HAVE GIVEN TESTIMONIALS; AND 3) THE TESTIMONIALS PROVIDED ARE NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENTATIVE OF RESULTS OBTAINED BY JASON ZUCKERMAN OR OF THE EXPERIENCE OF ALL CLIENTS OR OTHERS WITH JASON ZUCKERMAN. EVERY CASE IS DIFFERENT, AND EACH CLIENT’S CASE MUST BE EVALUATED AND HANDLED ON ITS OWN MERITS.
  • “Prior to hiring Eric as my attorney, I had never been involved in a lawsuit, and I never considered myself to be combative or litigious. However, when I began to experience serious gender discrimination combined with venomous retaliation at the hands of my superior, I realized that I could not just stand back and be victimized. I asked an attorney friend who she recommended for my situation, and without hesitation she sent me to Eric and his team. They listened to my issues and validated my concerns. Given his robust experience in discrimination and harassment law, Eric was able to immediately identify the textbook tactics used by my employer against me. Always a realist, Eric took time to explain all options and potential outcomes on the table. With his guidance, I finally felt empowered to act. We were successful in our claim, far more successful that I had ever thought possible. The sizable settlement he negotiated gave me the means to take some down time, focus on my family and get my career back on track. I can never thank him enough for enabling me to take back control over my life and my profession. If you are considering taking action against your employer after experiencing discrimination in the workplace, I cannot more strongly recommend Eric and his team. With his help, the deck will be stacked in your favor, and you will find you finally have the resources to see justice served!”
  • “After researching many law firms I contacted Zuckerman Law and it has been nothing short of outstanding! Eric Bachman has legal and professional talents that are second to none. I was expecting top notch legal help from Zuckerman Law however, Eric Bachman far exceeded my expectations. His knowledge and experience in the AIR-21/Whistleblower legal arena put me at ease knowing he had my best interests in mind. Eric also demonstrated a very understanding compassion for the issues I was confronting. Eric worked tirelessly, often emailing communications at late hours. Without Eric Bachman I would not be in the fantastic position I am in.”
  • “I retained Eric and his firm (Zuckerman Law) to represent me in a retaliation claim and subsequent separation agreement. Throughout the entire process, Eric was as much a counselor/therapist as he was an attorney and truly helped me maintain my sanity throughout the prolonged process required to reach a great resolution for me and my family. Not only did he vigorously advocate for me every step of the way, but he constantly encouraged me and kept me informed and up-to-date at every step. Eric spent an inordinate amount of time learning not only all of the facts and details of my case, but also getting to know and understand me and my situation. Eric was a relentless advocate, and in hindsight I am so very pleased with Eric and his most excellent efforts on my behalf. I would not hesitate for a moment to recommend Eric to anybody requiring a good attorney, Eric is truly exceptional.”
  • “Eric Bachman is an excellent lawyer! He is a true facilitator in every sense of the word; he proved time and time again–that he does what is in the best interest of the client. Eric: 1) did a superb job communicating each step of the process. 2) had a solid grasp of all the facts, which were fairly complicated and immense. 3) moved fast and maximized my position. Ultimately, his negotiation skills paid off considerably. I highly recommend Eric.”
  • “I retained Eric and his firm (Zuckerman Law) to represent me in a retaliation claim and subsequent separation agreement. Through the entire process Eric stuck with me and kept me encouraged and up to date every step of the way. Eric did not allow my former company to bully me and constantly gave advice on each scenario as they presented themselves. Eric was very persistent and for lack of a better term a “bulldog” in acquiring a fair and equitable settlement for my departure. I was fighting a very large company who is known for not giving in and not afraid to flex their substantial power and it was very apparent from the start that Eric would not be intimidated by them in any way, shape or form. I would not hesitate to recommend Eric to anybody requiring a good attorney, in my opinion Eric is one of the best.”
  • “In my line of work I have had to deal with many attorneys but I can honestly say that being represented by Eric Bachman was a pleasant experience. From the moment of engagement thru the conclusion of my case Eric kept me fully informed even while away on vacation with his family (which was completely unexpected). Eric was a no nonsense, extremely knowledgeable, compassionate and patient throughout the process standing by me until we reached a conclusion allowing me to turn this very difficult page so that I can move on to the next chapter of my life. Very grateful I had the best on my side and would highly recommend Eric Bachman.”
  • “Eric Bachman was hired to represent me and he did an excellent job []!! I would highly recommend Eric for any illegal employment and labor law employer/employment issues. Eric is an expert and very knowledgeable of the employment laws and has your very best interest in mind at all times. Eric provided weekly updates on my case and was always willing to provide me a breakdown in the statues of laws to better understand what they really meant and why he wanted to pursue specific directions if you will. He was very patient and made sure that I was clear on all facets of my case. Keep up the good work and thank you so much again Eric for all your efforts of support and a job well done on a “win win case” …..YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!”
  • “After interviewing several Law firms that specialize in labor law, I chose Zuckerman Law because of their knowledge and experience in dealing with whistle blower cases. After detailing my complaint to Eric Bachman, a Principal with Zuckerman Law, he agreed to take my case. I could not be more satisfied with the outcome of our case. Eric was extremely detail oriented and demonstrated superior knowledge of the law pertaining to my case. With Eric’s guidance, I was able to come to an acceptable “win-win” agreement in a matter of months, rather than years. I would gladly recommend Eric and Zuckerman Law to any person in the future.”
  • “When faced with discrimination in the workplace many fear the loss of a job and/or retaliation. That was my fear but eventually you have to stand up for your rights. I reached out to Zuckerman Law 4thQ 2017 to ask for help. After explaining my situation Eric Bachman was assigned to review my case and it was decided that my complaint had merit so we moved forward. With today’s technology we were able to communicate effectively without ever having to drive to DC or MD. Mr. Bachman has a very clear understanding of the law and strives to not only defend our rights but he also takes the time to educate his clients. He is a no-nonsense attorney and does not play games or allow anyone else to play them at your expense. The entire process was quick and took only about 4 months. It was simple and the fees were fair. If you are being discriminated against I recommend you reach out to Mr. Bachman. I was very happy with the outcome of our case and intend to stay in touch. Mr. Bachman – Thank you for all that you do.”
  • “I was very pleased with the services and I was pleased with the result. I would recommend the firm to others.”

Eric Bachman

Summary

Eric Bachman is a Principal with Zuckerman Law, where he is the Chair of the discrimination and retaliation practices.  Bachman has served in senior positions at the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) and the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. His wins include a $100 million settlement in a Title VII employment discrimination class action, a $1.3 million jury verdict in an age discrimination case (tried with co-counsel), a record-setting Whistleblower Protection Act settlement at OSC, and a $16 million class action settlement against a major grocery chain.

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4 Comments

  1. Theresa February 12, 2020

    Eric Bachman was hired to represent me and he did an excellent job duration!! I would highly recommend Eric for any illegal employment and labor law employer/employment issues. Eric is an expert and very knowledgeable of the employment laws and has your very best interest in mind at all times. Eric provided weekly updates on my case and was always willing to provide me a breakdown in the statues of laws to better understand what they really meant and why he wanted to pursue specific directions if you will. He was very patient and made sure that I was clear on all facets of my case. Keep up the good work and thank you so much again Eric for all your efforts of support and a job well done on a “win win case” …..YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!

  2. Andy Hill February 12, 2020

    I have know Eric Bachman professionally for over twenty years. He is an incredibly skilled attorney that will always go the extra mile for what is right. He has dedicated his life for over two decades to defend one’s ciilvil rights and to make sure the legal system works for everyone. Through his time as a public defender, working for the Department of Justice and as a civil rights attorney, Eric Bachman and Zuckerman law bring a wealth of experience and passion in the representation of each of their clients. 

  3. David Barron February 12, 2020

    I normally don’t write reviews but I felt compelled to share my thoughts regarding attorney Eric Bachman. You are not going to find a more intelligent, thorough and caring individual who specializes in retaliation and discrimination law.

  4. Jim L February 12, 2020

    Eric Bachman is an extremely professional attorney who in confidence gives sound and unbiased advice in areas related retaliation claims. I would highly recommend the firm as well as Mr. Bachman. His background in civil rights and in the justice department have lead him naturally to care and advise those who face discrimination. He is someone I would pass along to anyone involved in situations his firm represents.

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