Chicago Attorneys Hired at $595 an Hour for Harassment Investigation

Source: indy.gov / indy.gov

INDIANAPOLIS — A seven-member committee investigating sexual harassment claims within local government voted Wednesday to hire the Chicago-based law firm Fisher Phillips to lead the investigation.

The committee selected the firm for its experience handling workplace sexual harassment cases in private and public sectors.

“I was looking at the ordinance we passed. We need a firm with experience in investigations, ideally with experience in the public sector working in this kind of environment,” said City-County Councilor Andy Nielsen. “Fisher Phillips rose to the top.”

Another reason the committee chose Fisher Phillips is because the firm has attorneys licensed in Indiana.

While not the cheapest option, the committee believes it offers the best value for taxpayers through its efficiency and expertise in handling these cases.

“For Fisher Phillips, the discounted rate for this matter is $595 an hour for some of their attorneys,” said Councilor Crista Carlino.

Some firms could cost taxpayers up to $1,000 an hour and might need to bring in outside experts for certain parts of the investigation, adding to the overall cost.

“We are striving to be good stewards of taxpayers’ dollars,” said Councilor Josh Bain.

The committee includes Democrats Andy Nielsen, Crista Carlino, Jessica McCormick, Kristin Jones, and Rena Allen, along with Republican Minority Leader Brian Mowery and Councilor Josh Bain.

The committee is set to meet again on Nov. 14.