Charles C. Cavanagh

Charles Cavanagh is a highly accomplished trial lawyer and a valued member of the Litigation and Labor & Employment Practice Groups at Messner Reeves LLP. With extensive experience in federal and state trial and appellate courts, as well as a strong background in binding arbitration, Mr. Cavanagh has successfully litigated a broad range of cases. His expertise spans diverse areas of the law, including labor and employment defense, corporate break-ups, commercial contract disputes, intellectual property protection, allegations of false advertising, breach-of-warranty claims, products liability, and construction defects. Mr. Cavanagh’s comprehensive approach to litigation ensures that his clients receive top-notch representation, from guiding them through the litigation process to trial advocacy and appeals. Additionally, he provides valuable counseling on labor and employment matters, such as employee handbooks, workplace investigations, termination procedures, and litigation avoidance strategies.

Admitted to both the Colorado and California bars, Mr. Cavanagh initially practiced law in California for a decade before relocating to Colorado and joining Messner Reeves. His transition to Colorado has allowed him to serve the firm’s clients in both jurisdictions.  Indeed, Mr. Cavanagh boasts significant courtroom experience, including serving as first-chair trial counsel, in both states.  Mr. Cavanagh prepared for his successful legal career by completing his education at Georgetown and the University of Michigan Law School, graduating with honors from both schools.

Areas of Expertise:

Labor and Employment Defense:

Mr. Cavanagh has extensive experience in defending clients against labor and employment claims. With a focus on litigation avoidance strategies, he also advises clients on formulating employee handbooks, conducting workplace investigations, and ensuring proper termination procedures. His goal is to protect his clients’ interests while promoting fair and compliant practices in the workplace. However, Mr. Cavanagh is a zealous courtroom advocate when it comes time to represent clients who have been accused of discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and other unlawful employment practices.

Corporate Break-Ups:

Mr. Cavanagh has been a trusted counselor for clients experiencing all manner of corporate break-ups, successfully navigating them through voluntary withdrawals, forced expulsions, and judicial dissolutions.

False Advertising Allegations:

When false advertising allegations that threaten his clients’ reputations arise, Mr. Cavanagh meets the challenge. He has successfully defended large restaurant chains against class action lawsuits that alleged misleading claims, such as “non-GMO” labels on meat, dairy, and soda products. His track record includes obtaining dismissals and summary adjudications of multiple false advertising class actions.

Intellectual Property Protection and Commercial Contract Disputes:

Mr. Cavanagh provides invaluable guidance to clients in matters related to intellectual property protection and commercial contract disputes. His strategic approach and extensive knowledge of these areas of law enable him to safeguard his clients’ intellectual property rights and to resolve contract disputes effectively.

Products Liability Litigation and Breach-of-Warranty Claims:

In cases involving products liability and breach-of-warranty claims, Mr. Cavanagh has demonstrated exceptional skill in representing his clients. Whether defending manufacturers or pursuing claims on behalf of injured parties, he leverages his deep understanding of the intricacies of these areas of law to provide effective representation.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Mr. Cavanagh values spending quality time with his loved ones and enjoying the beauty of the Colorado outdoors. Whether hiking, cycling, or skiing, he appreciates the recreational opportunities the state has to offer. Additionally, Mr. Cavanagh and his family find joy in exploring different cultures through travel, broadening their horizons and enriching their lives.

Charles Cavanagh is a highly skilled trial lawyer with a wealth of experience. His ability to advocate effectively for his clients in federal and state courts, as well as through binding arbitration, has resulted in numerous favorable outcomes. From defending against labor and employment claims to handling complex false advertising cases, Mr. Cavanagh consistently provides top-tier representation. With a dedication to guiding his clients through the litigation process and a passion for achieving successful trial outcomes and appeals, he is a trusted advocate for those in need of legal support.