Education
- Suffolk University Law School
J.D., magna cum laude - Saint Michael’s College
B.A., History
Affiliations
- Massachusetts Bar Association
- New Hampshire Bar Association
- American Bar Association
- Boston Bar Association
- United States District Court, Massachusetts
- First Circuit Court of Appeals
Christopher Waterman
As a seasoned litigator, I am committed to helping clients navigate complex employment and non-competition disputes. With a focus on representing both employers and executives, I have experience across a range of industries, including healthcare, retail, manufacturing, hospitality, staffing, professional services, transportation, and technology.
I have successfully represented clients in state and federal courts, as well as before federal and state agencies, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the United States Department of Labor, and the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination. My employment law expertise includes advising employers on a wide range of issues, from disability accommodation, family and medical leave, workplace investigations, wage and hour compliance, commissions disputes, performance assessment and discipline, terminations, reductions-in-force, training, background checks, whistleblower claims, defamation, handbook and policy review, to trade-secrets protection strategies.
I work closely with clients to minimize their legal exposure and avoid disputes. I take a proactive approach to employment counseling, evaluating clients’ existing employment practices, and providing guidance to ensure they are in compliance with the latest legal requirements. Additionally, I help clients at the beginning of new employment relationships, from drafting and reviewing employment contracts, severance agreements, non-competition, non-disclosure, and confidentiality agreements.
In addition to my employment practice, I am well-versed in commercial disputes and litigation matters, advising clients in various industries on transactional and day-to-day commercial contract needs. I have represented clients in banking litigation, shareholder disputes, real estate litigation, securities arbitrations, unfair trade practice, complex contract disputes, and construction litigation.
I pride myself on being a strategic partner to clients, providing tailored legal advice to help them achieve their business goals while minimizing legal risks.
Kathryn “KC” Hopkinson
I have been recognized by my peers as one of Tampa’s Attorneys of the Year for 2021 in Tampa Style Magazine (September 2021). I have also been named a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” yearly since 2016. This is an honor reserved for those lawyers who exhibit excellence in practice. Only 2.5% of attorneys in Florida receive this distinction. Additionally, from 2017 to 2020 I was selected as one of the “Top 40 Under 40” Labor & Employment lawyers in the State of Florida by the American Society of Legal Advocates (ASLA), an invitation-only legal organization comprised of the nation’s most skilled lawyers. The ASLA selection process includes lawyers who combine stellar legal credentials with proven commitment to community engagement, leadership and the highest professional standards. Less than 1.5% of lawyers nationally are selected to this top honor.
I am an active Member of The Florida Bar, the Hillsborough County Bar Association, the American Bar Association, the Florida and Hillsborough County Associations for Women Lawyers and the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.
Education
- Stetson University College of Law
J.D. - The University of Tampa
B.A. in Government and World Affairs, cum laude
Affiliations
- Florida Justice Association, Eagle Member
- American Bar Association (ABA)
- Florida and Hillsborough Associations for Women Lawyers
- Hillsborough County Bar Association
- Federal Bar Association (FBA)
- Florida Bar
- American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI)
- Tampa Bay Bankruptcy Bar Association (TBBBA)
- ProVisors
- Federalist Society
- Stetson Law Alumni Association
- Daughters of the American Revolution, Founding Father Member
Client Testimonials
Attorney Waterman was absolutely amazing in representing me in a wrongful termination claim. He was aggressive from the outset, and worked diligently to get me a great resolution. With the funds from my settlement I was able to purchase my first home for me and my daughter! Chris was the best.
Chris was a godsend for me and my dispute with my employer. He was super responsive, aggressive and fought for what I deserved. Thanks Chris!
Chris was incredible in helping me secure an extremely generous severance package when I was wrongfully terminated. He was a bulldog with my former employer and I ended up getting more than double in severance then what they originally offered. He is quick to return calls and emails and great to work with. Could not recommend him highly enough.
Attorney Waterman assisted me after I was laid off from a financial services firm. He was able to fight for me and secured a high 6 figure settlement. He is tenacious, responsive, and simply a great advocate. Thanks again Chris.