In addition to being Hawley Troxell’s Managing Partner, Steve Berenter is the chairperson of the firm’s employment group. Believing in a proactive approach, Mr. Berenter counsels clients regarding their rights and obligations under evolving principles of employment law and related statutes. In addition, he assists the firm’s clients by auditing and revising employment contracts, employee handbooks, and other documents and procedures that may give rise to employment disputes. Involved in litigation in both federal and state court, Mr. Berenter also has significant experience before the Idaho Human Rights Commission and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Prior to joining Hawley Troxell, Mr. Berenter served as a Deputy Attorney General, State of Idaho, Appellate Division, 1983-1984, and the Department of Education and State Board of Education, 1980-1982.
He earned the highest ranking from Chambers and Partners for Labor and Employment in Idaho and the highest rating from Martindale-Hubbell, AV.
Significant Representation
Mr. Berenter maintains a broad employment law practice representing clients that include URS Corporation, Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center, Blue Cross of Idaho, MWI Veterinary Supply, Futura Corporation, College of Idaho, College of Western Idaho, Boise State University, Edmark Auto, Smith Sport Optics, Home Federal Bank, and Syringa Bank. He dedicates a significant amount of his practice to defending clients in employment discrimination cases under the Idaho Human Rights Act, Title VII; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act; and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Practice Areas
Education
Law School: University of Washington, J.D., with high honors, 1980
Order of the Coif
Undergraduate: Stanford University, B.A., 1976
Community Activities
Board of Directors, Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce, since 2009
Board of Directors, Idaho Business Coalition for Excellence in Education, since 2009
College of Idaho Instructor, 1981-1982
