(11/16/2022, Manchester, NH) – Sheehan Phinney attorneys Christopher Cole and Megan C. Carrier recently secured a significant victory in the New Hampshire Supreme Court.
On November 2, 2022, the Supreme Court affirmed that an employee’s complaints about and reporting upon the application of internal grading decisions by a private university do not implicate public policy considerations necessary to support a wrongful termination claim. This victory is an important one for the academic community to the extent that the Court recognized – as a matter of first impression under New Hampshire law – that matters of academic judgment are better left to the educational instructions than to the judiciary, and that the judiciary should accord academic institutions deference when such matters are at issue. Read the full decision here: NH Supreme Court Order
Cole severs as Co-Chair of the firm’s Business Litigation Group and has successfully handled cases involving trade secrets related to: software and software applications; the alleged misuse of company proprietary information and predatory employee hiring; trademark and trade dress infringement in connection with the look and feel of graphical user interfaces and consumer product packaging; and numerous other business, employee and employment-related disputes. He has been consistently recognized for his work in business litigation by Chambers USA, Best Lawyers in America®, and New England Super Lawyers®, including being named a Best Lawyers in America® Manchester Lawyer of the Year for 2022, 2019, 2014, and 2012. Cole was also named a Patent and Trademark Star by Managing IP Magazine. He received his J.D., summa cum laude, from the Syracuse University College of Law.
Carrier‘s practice focuses on business litigation and involves representing individuals and businesses in a wide range of disputes before state and federal trial and appeals courts, administrative tribunals, arbitrators, and in mediation. Typical litigation matters include employment, zoning and land use, insurance coverage, contract, and tort disputes. Carrier has briefed and argued cases before the New Hampshire Superior Court as well as the New Hampshire Supreme Court. She has been recognized by both Best Lawyers in America® and New England Super Lawyers® for her work in business litigation. Carrier received her J.D., magna cum laude, from the University of New Hampshire School of Law.
About the Firm
Sheehan Phinney is a full-service business law firm representing local, national and international clients with innovative approaches and practical solutions. Founded in 1937, Sheehan Phinney has grown to nearly 70 attorneys with five offices throughout New Hampshire and Massachusetts and is known for professional excellence, practical counsel and commitment to both its clients and the communities it serves. Sheehan Phinney is the exclusive member in New Hampshire of Lex Mundi, the world’s leading association of premier independent law firms.