NELA

Vishal Shah
Shah Litigation, PLLC
Boston, MA
Member Since 2023
Law School: The University of Alabama School of Law

What inspired you to practice plaintiffs’ employment law?

After nearly a decade representing Fortune 100 companies in high-stakes employment litigation, a series of personal tragedies in 2022 prompted me to reevaluate my career path—which I had not done since law school. I had spent years learning and executing the playbook of corporate defense, but I wasn’t using that knowledge to create meaningful change. My parents, who immigrated from India and built a life running a motel in southeast Alabama, taught me firsthand about the importance of employment to one’s dignity and security. My transition to plaintiffs’ work wasn’t just about switching sides—it was about trying to make the world a better place.

Career-wise, what accomplishment are you most proud of?

My proudest career moment was starting Shah Litigation. While leaving a secure position at Morgan Lewis to start my own firm was daunting, it allowed me to create a practice on my own terms. We focus on a handful of cases at any time, which allows us to dedicate the time and resources each client deserves. Being able to offer employees the same level of representation I once provided to major corporations has been deeply fulfilling, and seeing the impact in our clients’ lives confirms that I made the right decision.

What advice do you have for law students or new lawyers interested in this area of law?

First, strategic thinking forms the foundation of what we do. Anticipate defense strategies early, think several steps ahead, and build your cases proactively to withstand expected challenges. This forward-thinking approach often makes the difference. Second, honest self-assessment is crucial. Success comes from regularly evaluating your strengths and areas for growth. One of my favorite sayings goes something like this, “Good, better, best–never stop until your good is better, and your better is best.” The most effective attorneys remain constructively critical of themselves while constantly refining their skills. Third, take ownership of your career. Whether you’re starting your own practice or joining an established firm, approach every case with complete responsibility. Be curious, stay meticulously organized, and be coachable. It’s not easy, but it is worth it.

What does NELA membership mean to you? How has it impacted your career?

NELA provided exactly what I needed at a crucial transition in my career. On June 26, 2023, I left the security of BigLaw and 4,000 colleagues. The next day, I flew to the Annual Convention in Chicago, uncertain about what lay ahead. There, I found something remarkable. Although we all advocate for workers’ rights, there was a sense of collaboration where everyone seemed to genuinely root for each other’s success. And attorneys who had been my opponents in litigation were now welcoming me as a colleague, offering guidance and making introductions. The practical value has been equally impactful. Between the Listserv’s daily insights and the expertise shared at every event, NELA gives me tools to better serve my clients. What started as membership in another professional organization has become a true community of attorneys who share both knowledge and a dedication to workplace justice. I’m now giving back as a member of the 2025–2026 Convention Planning Committee. It’s a way to contribute to an organization that supported me when I needed it most. People say NELA is the world’s largest workers’ rights law firm—and they’re right. The collaborative spirit here makes us all better advocates.

What’s your favorite way to spend a day off?

There’s no bad day on the golf course, even if some of your golf balls land among the woods or take a swim.

Harini Srinivasan
Cohen Milstein Sellers & Toll, PLLC
Washington, DC
Member Since 2015
Law School: American University Washington College of Law

What inspired you to practice plaintiffs’ employment law?

My journey into plaintiffs’ employment law is deeply personal. As the daughter of immigrants who confronted economic barriers, I saw firsthand how historical and legal structures have shaped opportunities and limited potential. This fueled my passion for civil rights and social justice from a young age. I pursued this path through my studies, and I was fortunate to begin my career as a Georgetown Women’s Law and Public Policy Fellow at the National Partnership for Women & Families. There, I worked on workplace justice issues, but I soon realized that I wanted to be on the frontlines of litigation—fighting for workers whose rights had been violated. That realization led me to plaintiffs’ side litigation, where I have been privileged to represent employees in class actions and impact litigation. The ability to advocate for workers against powerful institutions and help shape the law to advance equity is what continues to inspire me every day.

Career-wise, what accomplishment are you most proud of?

One of my proudest professional accomplishments was my firm’s work, along with co-counsel, in Gabaldon v. U.S. Postal Service, a nationwide pregnancy discrimination case. Our legal team successfully certified the class, defended that certification against challenge, and ultimately reached a $45 million settlement for thousands of workers. It was an immense privilege to work closely with the plaintiffs—pregnant officers and agriculture specialists at Customs and Border Protection who were denied necessary accommodations—and to craft a case strategy that demonstrated the systemic nature of the discrimination they faced. This case not only secured justice for our clients but also contributed to a better work environment for pregnant employees at the agency going forward. Beyond case victories, I am also incredibly proud to co-lead our firm’s Hiring & Diversity Committee. I have worked to deepen our pipeline of applicants and develop inclusive hiring practices that ensure we attract and retain top talent. I strongly believe that our profession—and the impact we can have as civil rights lawyers—benefits when we prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion.

What advice do you have for law students or new lawyers interested in this area of law?

First, seek out mentors and build relationships with attorneys who practice plaintiffs’ employment law. Organizations like NELA and local Affiliates are incredible resources for making those connections. Second, focus on developing strong legal writing and analytical skills. Much of our work involves persuasive briefing—whether it’s a motion for class certification, summary judgment opposition, or appellate advocacy. Being able to tell a compelling legal story and synthesize complex facts into a clear, persuasive argument is critical. Third, stay engaged with the broader movement for workers’ rights. Read about emerging issues in employment law, follow developments in class action jurisprudence, and think creatively about new litigation opportunities. This practice area is constantly evolving, and the most effective advocates are those who stay ahead of the curve. Finally, don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Impact litigation is long and often hard-fought, but persistence leads to meaningful change. Every case we bring contributes to a larger fight for justice.

What does NELA membership mean to you? How has it impacted your career?

NELA has been a cornerstone of my professional growth. It has given me access to a network of brilliant, dedicated attorneys who are not only excellent litigators but also fierce advocates for workers’ rights. Through NELA, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with co-counsel, learn from experienced practitioners, and contribute to discussions on cutting-edge legal strategies.

What’s your favorite way to spend a day off?

On my ideal day off, I’m spending time outdoors with my family—whether that’s hiking, biking, or traveling to a new national park. I also love reading and cooking, especially trying new recipes from different cuisines. And, of course, if there’s an opportunity to squeeze in a trip to a museum or a great bookstore, that’s a perfect bonus.

Is there anything else would you like to share with us?

I’m incredibly grateful to be part of the plaintiffs’ employment law community and to do this work alongside so many talented and passionate advocates. As we continue the fight for workplace justice, I hope we can keep expanding access to legal representation, pushing for systemic change, and mentoring the next generation of civil rights lawyers.