Michelle Caiola

Michelle Caiola, a partner at Phillips & Associates, PLLC, in New York City, passionately champions the rights of individuals in employment law. Her practice is a beacon of hope for those facing discrimination, whether due to wages, sexual misconduct or pregnancy-related issues. With an impressive track record in court and a profound understanding of legal intricacies, she navigates complex discrimination cases with finesse, securing substantial settlements for her clients annually.Fearless in her pursuit of justice, Ms. Caiola stands up against formidable opponents for a diverse clientele that spans executives in finance, technology, media and pharmaceuticals, as well as doctors, lawyers and models. Her proficiency extends to high-profile sexual assault cases, currently representing women who have suffered abuse at the hands of hip-hop mogul Sean Combs and other public figures.Academically accomplished, Ms. Caiola honed her legal acumen at Washington University School of Law and earned her J.D. with honors from the University of Iowa College of Law, following her undergraduate studies at Kent State University. Admitted to practice in New York (2005) and Missouri (1994), she is qualified to appear before the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York, the U.S. District Courts for the Northern and Central Districts of Illinois, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the 2nd and 9th Circuits and the Supreme Court of the United States.A steadfast advocate for workplace fairness, Ms. Caiola has shared her insights at government hearings and employment discrimination conferences. She has co-authored influential amicus briefs for the U.S. Supreme Court, supporting women's rights and workplace accommodations. She is respected in legal circles and is an active member of several esteemed legal organizations, including the National Employment Lawyers Association, the New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers, the New York State Bar Association and the New York City Bar.Ms. Caiola's career in employment discrimination litigation took root at the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), where she adeptly managed class-action lawsuits involving workplace discrimination. Her leadership roles at Legal Momentum and Equal Rights Advocates also saw her winning significant cases for women in various professions, including those in nontraditional roles. Furthermore, in her role as managing director at Disability Rights Advocates in New York City, she attained significant courtroom triumphs and orchestrated groundbreaking agreements, paving the way for new opportunities for individuals with disabilities.