Christopher L. Brigham

Christopher L. Brigham is a Shareholder with his firm and serves as Chairman of the Employment Law and School Law Practice Groups. He represents and counsels businesses and independent schools on workplace and employment law matters. His practice includes defending employers in federal and state courts and advising clients before agencies such as the EEOC and state human rights commissions. He focuses on practical solutions and risk management.

Christopher earned his J.D., cum laude, from Vermont Law School and holds a B.A. in American Literature from Middlebury College. His academic background strengthened his analytical and writing skills, which support his litigation and advisory work. He is admitted to practice in Connecticut and Massachusetts, along with several federal courts, including the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit.

Throughout his career, Christopher has guided employers through all stages of the employment relationship, including hiring, discipline, and termination. He conducts human resource audits, drafts policies, and leads internal investigations involving discrimination and harassment claims. In his school law practice, he advises independent schools on student discipline, Title IX investigations, mandated reporting obligations, and compliance with state and federal regulations.

Christopher L. Brigham also serves as General Counsel to Deerfield Academy and regularly assists schools with enrollment contracts, employment agreements, and faculty handbooks. He is a frequent speaker for professional organizations on employment law trends affecting businesses and schools. Through proactive counseling and strong defense strategies, he helps employers maintain compliant workplaces and resolve disputes efficiently while protecting institutional integrity and reputation.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Updike, Kelly & Spellacy, P.C.
• Member, Connecticut Bar Association, Labor & Employment Section,
  Education Law Section
• Member, Massachusetts Bar Association

Licensed State

• Connecticut
• Massachusetts

Education

• Vermont Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD) Cum Laude
• Middlebury College
  BA in American Literature

Awards & Badges