Christopher S. Bouriat

Christopher S. Bouriat is a partner in Reed Smith’s Labor and Employment Group in Pittsburgh. He represents companies of different sizes in employment litigation before federal and state courts and administrative agencies. His practice covers discrimination, harassment, retaliation, contractual disputes, restrictive covenants, disability and leave laws, wage and hour compliance, and pay equity. Chris also advises employers on workplace policies, contracts, hiring, termination, accommodations, and leave management to reduce legal risk.

Chris earned his J.D., cum laude, from Brooklyn Law School in 2011, where he served as associate managing editor of the Brooklyn Law Review. He received his B.A. in politics from The Catholic University of America in 2008. His academic background provided a strong foundation in legal research, writing, advocacy, and employment law analysis. This training supports his ability to evaluate workplace disputes, develop litigation strategies, and provide practical compliance guidance.

Before entering private practice, Chris worked at the New York City Law Department. He defended the City of New York, its agencies, and management officials in employment and tort litigation involving individual, multiparty, and class claims. His matters included claims under federal, state, and city civil rights and employment laws. Chris managed all stages of litigation and served as lead counsel in numerous federal and state jury trials, including five that reached verdicts.

Christopher S. Bouriat is admitted in New York and Pennsylvania and before federal courts in both states. He has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch for labor and employment litigation and by Pennsylvania Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in employment and labor. Chris combines courtroom experience with a strategic, pragmatic approach, viewing litigation as one of several tools for solving a client’s underlying workplace problem.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Reed Smith LLP
• Member, Pennsylvania Bar Association
• Member, New York State Bar Association

Licensed State

• New York
• Pennsylvania

Education

• Brooklyn Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Catholic University of America
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges