Heather Fossity defends employers and management in a variety of employment matters, while serving as proactive counsel to guide her clients through important management decisions aimed to address legal concerns before they arise. With experience from government and in-house perspectives, she has a comprehensive understanding of the unique processes involved in employment law from both a federal and local standpoint. 

Heather also has a strong background in workers' compensation law, and she frequently helps clients navigate the unique challenges associated with the Oregon Workers’ Compensation system and its intersection with employment law.  She advises clients on high risk terminations involving workplace injuries, as well as the process of bringing injured employees back to work.  Heather is aware the best course of action is different for every employer, and aims to accomplish each business’ unique goals while mitigating the risk of retaliation, ADA, and other protected class claims. Heather’s practice also focuses on the challenging and ever changing issues surrounding independent contractor classification.  Heather advises businesses in various industries including professional services, delivery driving, and medical practice to ensure proper classification under state and federal law.  

Heather graduated with her B.A. in Social and Cultural Analysis from New York University, and received her J.D., cum laude, from Lewis & Clark Law School. Throughout her legal education and even prior to law school, Heather diversified her experience, working with the federal government, in private practice, and with in-house counsel at a professional services firm. While attending law school, she also served as a Faculty Research Assistant to Professor Amy Bushaw, as an Intern and Student Director with the Small Business Legal Clinic, and as a member of the Lewis & Clark Law School’s Moot Court Mock Trial team. Heather has a strong background in representing Oregon employers and effectively resolving disputes for a diverse group of clients across various industries.  

As a recreational ultra-runner, Heather spends the majority of her free time in Forest Park training for her next trail race.  In line with this passion, Heather serves as a member of the Forest Park Conservancy Board of Directors, and she is the Founder and President of the Barran Liebman Run Club. In addition, Heather serves as Co-Chair of the Multnomah Bar Association Young Lawyers Section CLE Committee.