History of NELA
Founded in 1985
The National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA) was founded in 1985 as a response to the growing need for a collective voice advocating for the rights of employees in the workplace. At a time when the legal landscape heavily favored employers, a small group of dedicated plaintiff-side employment attorneys came together to form an organization focused exclusively on advancing employee rights and supporting the attorneys who represent them.
Growth & National Reach
Since its inception, NELA has grown into the largest professional organization in the United States made up of lawyers who represent individual employees in cases involving employment discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, retaliation, wage and hour violations, and other workplace injustices.
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Headquartered in California, NELA serves a national network of attorneys and advocates committed to promoting justice, fairness, and equality in the workplace.
Shaping Employment Law
Over the decades, NELA has been instrumental in shaping employment law through amicus curiae briefs, policy advocacy, continuing legal education, and litigation support.
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The organization also engages in strategic legislative efforts at the federal and state levels, often working in coalition with civil rights groups and labor organizations.
NELA Houston’s Role
Its growing network of regional and state affiliates—including the Houston Chapter—extends its impact by addressing local employment law issues and building strong legal communities that support employee advocacy.