Japanese Companies & Employment Litigation: Special Concerns

Speakers:
Philip Berkowitz, Partner, Nixon Peabody LLP
William Gilbert, Vice President, General Manager, Human Resources, Canon USA, Inc.
George Pierce, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Toyota Tsusho America, Inc.

Japanese companies are often targeted in employment lawsuits in the United States by employees who are not comfortable with traditional Japanese business or cultural etiquette. The laws prohibiting sexual harassment, national origin, gender and age discrimination are often used as a weapon to challenge traditional Japanese practices. Communication also often presents special problems. The Japanese "yes" may mean something different to an American. When Japanese executives testify in court, other potential problems arise. It is critical to prepare the executive carefully and, if necessary, be sure that there is a competent interpreter present. This program addresses the above issues and presents real-life examples of lawsuits as well as special, practical issues facing Japanese companies, and how to resolve them. The speakers have many years’ experience advising Japanese companies with regard to their legal obligations in the U.S.

Agenda
Registration & buffet breakfast
8:00 – 8:30 am

Panel discussion and Q&A
8:30 – 10:00

Admission: This is a free event and seating is available on a first come, first served basis.

This program is sponsored by Nixon Peabody LLP.