Chris Morehead

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My favorite part of my job is breaking down complex personnel matters with a clear game plan to position my client for a successful resolution.

How I represent clients at Schwabe

I manage employment law matters for businesses of all sizes, with a primary emphasis on the healthcare industry. My background includes defending companies in employment litigation matters throughout the Pacific Northwest, and addressing complex compliance challenges for national employers across multiple states. I also regularly provide guidance on non-compete and non-solicit agreements along the West Coast. Regardless of the context, I really enjoy finding creative ways to help achieve my clients’ goals.

I’ve been lucky enough to work with a variety of industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and consumer goods and have enjoyed helping clients with industry-specific challenges. Early in my career, I represented employees and gained valuable insight into workplace disputes, then transitioned to primarily representing Fortune 500 companies. This balanced background has shaped how I approach my cases, and helps me to anticipate issues and offer well-rounded advice.

Experience

  • Secured full dismissal of race, religion, and national origin discrimination claims on summary judgment, shortly after the plaintiff’s deposition for a Fortune 50 client
  • Secured walk-away and other favorable non-monetary terms after filing a motion for terminating sanctions against the plaintiff for discovery abuses
  • Secured full dismissal of a retaliation claim on summary judgment shortly after the plaintiff’s deposition in an adversarial proceeding on behalf of a Fortune 50 client
  • Achieved full dismissal of sexual harassment, sex discrimination, wrongful discharge, and family medical leave retaliation claims on summary judgment, which was upheld on appeal
  • Secured a temporary restraining order (TRO) against a group of the client’s ex-employees for violating non-solicitation agreements; resolved the matter on very favorable terms shortly after the TRO hearing
  • Defeated a plaintiff’s TRO motion and motion for expedited discovery, resulting in favorable outcome for the client shortly thereafter

Education

  • Lewis & Clark Law School, Juris Doctor, (2013)
  • Washington State University, Bachelor of Arts (2010)

Admissions

  • U.S. Court of Appeals
  • Oregon State Courts
  • Washington State Courts
  • U.S. Bankruptcy Court - District of Oregon
  • U.S. Court of Appeals - Ninth Circuit
  • U.S. District Court - District of Oregon
  • U.S. District Court - Western District of ‎Washington

Memberships

Central Oregon SHRM

Awards

Recognized by Best Lawyers in America Ones to Watch, Litigation—Labor & Employment (2022–2025)

Selected to the Oregon Super Lawyers Rising Star List, Employment & Labor (2022–2023)

Recognized by Best Lawyers in America Ones to Watch, Labor & Employment Law—Management (2021–2025)

 

Community Activities

SHRM Oregon Board of Directors, Legislative Director (2025-present )

Outside Interests

When not in the office, I’m usually chasing (or lugging) my daughter from one outdoor activity to the next.

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