Emily M. Clites

Emily M. Clites is an Associate at Strassburger McKenna Gutnick & Gefsky, where she maintains a diverse litigation practice that includes employment law and general civil litigation. She represents public and private employers in a wide range of workplace disputes, including discrimination, retaliation, wrongful termination, and other employment-related claims. Emily also has experience handling a variety of civil litigation matters, particularly premises liability cases, and has assisted with litigation in both state and federal courts.

Emily works closely with clients through all phases of litigation, from investigations and administrative matters to discovery and trial preparation. Her experience includes conducting and defending depositions, drafting pleadings and motions, researching complex legal issues, reviewing medical and employment records, and participating in strategic decision-making and case development. Emily’s practical understanding of both employment counseling and litigation enables her to provide thoughtful guidance while effectively advocating for her clients when disputes arise.

Before entering private practice, Emily gained valuable litigation experience while working throughout law school at a firm focused on administrative law and civil litigation. There, she assisted attorneys with legal research, appellate filings, briefs, and case preparation, developing the analytical and advocacy skills that continue to serve her clients today. While there, Emily also authored a publication analyzing a significant U.S. Supreme Court decision affecting employer obligations under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

During law school, she served as the Executive Production Editor of the Environmental Law Journal. She also provided legal assistance to veterans through the Veterans Clinic serving Allegheny County Veterans Court.

Emily’s dedication to service, collaboration, and advocacy reflects the thoughtful and client-focused approach she brings to every matter she handles.