Robert L. Gillette is a Partner in the Seattle office of GRSM and is a member of the Employment Law practice group. His practice focuses on defending employers against claims of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and wrongful termination. He also regularly litigates issues involving trade secrets and non-competition agreements. Robert practices in both state and federal court.

A significant portion of Robert’s practice involves keeping employers out of litigation by advising clients on time-sensitive matters. During 2020 and 2021, Robert has helped employees navigate COVID-19 employment issues, including draft policy and updating employee handbooks.

Prior to joining GRSM, Robert practiced employment law and general civil litigation. His past litigation experience includes workers’ compensation, commercial, and personal injury law.

Robert serves as a volunteer coach for CYO Soccer and Queen Anne Little League.

Admissions

• Washington
• Oregon

Memberships

• Washington State Bar Association
• Oregon State Bar Association
• King County Bar Association
• 1 Million Cups, Member

Community Involvement

• North Queen Anne Child Care, Board Member
• Queen Anne Little League, Volunteer Coach, 2017, 2018, 2019
• St. Anne CYO Soccer, Volunteer Coach, 2019

• Recovered favorable settlement for financial services client in dispute with former employee over trade secrets.
• Representation of health care industry client accused of gender and pregnancy discrimination during business downturn and reduction in staff.
• Representation of architecture firm against former owner-employee claiming age discrimination.
• Representation of retail service provider client accused of gender and pregnancy discrimination immediately prior to bankruptcy.
• Representation of gasoline retailer in defense of claims by former employee alleging nation of origin discrimination.
• Representation of manufacturing company in complaint by a terminated employee that he was harassed by his female supervisor.
• Representation of restaurant in defense of claims made by current employee of racial discrimination.