Haley Hurst

Haley Hurst is a trusted strategic advisor to in house counsel, human resources leaders, and business executives, known for delivering practical, business aligned solutions to complex workplace challenges. Haley focuses on helping employers navigate an increasingly intricate legal landscape while staying true to their distinct operational goals and culture. While legal counseling is often expected to highlight obstacles, Haley’s approach centers on understanding the business’s goals and uncovering solutions that support both compliance and business needs.  With a clear, solutions driven approach, Haley translates nuanced legal issues into actionable guidance, allowing companies to move forward with confidence and clarity.

Haley’s practice spans the full range of labor and employment litigation and counseling. Haley devotes a significant portion of her practice to representing employers in labor and employment disputes before federal and state courts and administrative agencies in cases involving claims for discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wrongful termination, wage and hour disputes, trade secret claims, and restrictive covenant enforcement. Haley tailors her litigation strategy to meet each client’s unique objectives, often balancing efficient case management and careful risk assessment with the broader need to safeguard business operations and reputational interests.

In addition to litigation, Haley regularly advises employers on implementing forward-looking employment practices and policies that align with evolving business needs and regulatory requirements. As a core part of her practice, Haley provides on critical personnel decisions, such as hiring, performance management, disciplinary actions, and terminations; negotiates and drafts employment agreements, including offer letters and separation agreements; advises employers on compensation issues under the federal FLSA and state wage and hour laws; and advises employers on FMLA, ADA, ADEA, and Title VII compliance.

Before pursuing her legal career, Haley taught high school English and coached varsity soccer. Haley remains passionate about investing in her community through volunteerism and pro bono service, particularly through expungement petitions and participation in North Carolina’s Guardian ad Litem appellate program.