Amanda McSween Empey

Amanda Empey counsels employers on compliance with state and federal labor and employment laws and represents them in resolving a broad range of workplace disputes.

As a former federal law clerk, Amanda applies her unique insight to advocate for her clients and guide them through all aspects of litigation. She specializes in employment law and regularly defends employers against claims involving allegations of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and related claims before various state and federal agencies and courts. Amanda also represents clients in complex wage and hour litigation, including class/collective action disputes.

Using her employment law expertise, Amanda helps clients avoid and resolve workplace disputes. She counsels employers on day-to-day employment law issues, including hiring, disciplinary actions, termination procedures, and leave administration. Amanda frequently provides training to teach HR, management, and employees about their obligations under the law. She also conducts neutral investigations to assist employers in determining the facts relating to difficult workplace disputes.

Before joining Bodman, Amanda served for two years as a law clerk to the Hon. Sean F. Cox, Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. In that role, Amanda assisted Judge Cox in resolving cases by preparing memoranda on a variety of civil and criminal matters, drafting proposed opinions, and preparing Judge Cox for hearings and trials.

While in law school, Amanda interned for the Hon. Michael J. Riordan of the Michigan Court of Appeals and the Michigan Court of Appeals Research Division. She also served as the Voting Note & Comment Editor on the Wayne Law Review and earned the Governor’s Scholarship for academic achievement.

Outside of the office, Amanda is an avid runner and enjoys spending time with her family.

Professional Affiliations

•  State Bar of Michigan
  • US Courts Committee
    • Vice Chair (2023-2024)
  • Labor and Employment Law Section
  • Litigation Section
• Federal Bar Association, Eastern District of Michigan Chapter
  • Law Clerk Committee
•  Women Lawyers Association of Michigan

Publications

• “Five Dos and Don’ts for Preserving an Honest Belief Defense,” Bodman Workplace Law Update (March 4, 2024)
• “Michigan Prohibits Hair-Based Racial Discrimination,” Bodman Workplace Law Update (June 16, 2023)
• “Michigan Amends Civil Rights Act To Include Abortion Protections,” Bodman Workplace Law Update (May 25, 2023)
• “Michigan Amends Civil Rights Act To Include LGBTQ Protections,” Bodman Workplace Law Update (March 17, 2023)
• “An Expansion of Federal Protections For Pregnant and Nursing Workers,” Bodman Workplace Law Update (January 20, 2023)
• “The Customer Isn’t Always Right: Why and How Employers Should Address Third-Party Discrimination in the Workplace,” Bodman Workplace Law Update (September 30, 2022)
• “Client Liability for an Attorney’s Torts: An Evolving Problem that Warrants a Modern Solution,” 65 Wayne L. Rev. 637 (2020)

Speaking Engagements

• Co-Presenter (with Alex E. Haney) “AI and HR: Pitfalls and Precautions,” Michigan Federation for Children and Families 2024 Annual Spring Human Resources Training Seminar, May 2, 2024
• Co-Presenter (with John T. Below) “2024 Independent Contractor or Employee – That Is The Question!” Michigan Chamber of Commerce Webinar, April 2024
• Co-presenter (with Aaron D. Graves), “2022 Employment Law Update,” Michigan Chamber of Commerce (September 21, 2022)

Related News

• 07/18/2024Bodman PLC and 28 Firm Attorneys Honored by State Bar of Michigan for Pro Bono Service
• 03/04/2024Five Dos and Don’ts for Preserving an Honest Belief Defense
• 06/16/2023Michigan Prohibits Hair-Based Racial Discrimination
• 05/25/2023Michigan Amends Civil Rights Act To Include Abortion Protections
• 03/17/2023Michigan Amends Civil Rights Act To Include LGBTQ Protections