James R. Strickland

Employment Litigation

James is a Hoosier employment litigator with a national practice who has defended employers in federal and state courts across the country. James represents employers at all stages of litigation — from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and state administrative agencies, to federal district courts, and to federal courts of appeal.

James defends allegations related to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Equal Pay Act (EPA), and Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), and state statutory and common law claims.

Client Counseling

James advises clients on investigations, corrective actions (including separations, policies and procedures) and best practices. He offers guidance on trending topics in employment law and partners with clients to develop legally compliant employment strategies tailored to clients' unique business needs. James, as part of the firm's affirmative action task force, also regularly speaks and writes about diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts and similar initiatives.

Education Law

James draws on his background as an educator to represent colleges and universities throughout the state and country in administrative proceedings and litigation. James also counsels academic institutions on successfully managing sensitive investigations and advises schools on faculty tenure and termination, student discipline, and other related education matters.

Prior Experience

Before joining Faegre Drinker, James clerked for Justice Mark S. Massa of the Indiana Supreme Court and for Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana. While clerking, James assisted on all manner of employment and education matters.

Prior to starting his legal career, James taught high school humanities for two years in San Antonio as a Teach For America corps member and for three years in Indianapolis in schools serving adults and older youth who had not yet received their diplomas.

Personal Interests

In his spare time, James enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children.