W. Melvin Haas III

W. Melvin Haas is an outstanding negotiator. He clearly always has the client's best interest in mind and maintains control of the proceedings at all times and in difficult circumstances.

Bruce Digby (CP Kelco, a Huber Company)

Atlanta, GA

Mel is an outstanding attorney who I have utilized as an important legal resource over a period of 15 years. He possesses exceptional facilitation skills when it comes to union and employment law matters. I respect him for bringing a business perspective when it comes to finding a resolution to an employment dispute. He does not waste my time and quickly asks the "right questions" in order to explore the potential solutions for complex matters.

Stanley Bulger (Central Garden & Pet Company)

Walnut Creek, CA

Mr. Haas has provided exceptional counsel for Kennametal for many years. He has the ability to quickly understand the relevant business landscape and can then quickly provide guidance, which is on point. Besides his technical expertise, he is amazingly quick in his response time and makes us feel as though we are his only client. It is quite rare to find someone who brings such a complete combination of subject matter expertise along with a total commitment to the success of the customer. Mel is outstanding.

John Caverno (Kennametal Inc.)

Latrobe, PA

Mr. Haas has been a key partner with Merial since it was created over nine years ago. Merial is the global leader in providing for the health of animals and is a JV with Merck (A U.S. Company) and sanofi-aventis (A French Company). Mr. Haas has provided expert advice and counsel in the areas of Employment Law (EEO, Employee Relations, and Employment Litigation) during that period. He and his firm have the respect of the Merial Leadership. The advice, style, timeliness, and delivery have been exceptional. In addition, Merial relocated its U.S. and Global Headquarters outside Atlanta and Mr. Haas has been helpful in supporting that relocation through his association with key individuals and agencies in Georgia.

Kevin Carroll (Merial)

Suwannee, GA

I have worked with Mel Haas for over 20 years, even when he changed firms and I changed companies. I will not address the typical attributes that you mention above since they are all positive and, to me, do not cover his most important qualities. Mel Haas does not simply provide the probabilities of victory; he makes a commitment to it. He understands the needs of business and is willing to make those things happen. He has the two most important attributes - judgment and guts. Finally, he wins! What else can I say?

Kopsa Louis (Pirelli North America)

Columbia, SC

Mr. Haas has and continues to provide expert legal labor law support to the U.S. Aerospace businesses that I am responsible for. In addition to his detailed legal knowledge, he is able to blend his style, personality, and experience to provide unique practical guidance. I have worked closely with him in Union Contract Negotiations where, as part of my negotiating team, both his legal and negotiations prowess have been invaluable. He has also supported us successfully in opposing Union Organizing attempts. On all matters of labor law interpretation, arbitrations, and disciplinary issues, we seek his advice prior to making decisions. At all times, he not only provides the correct legal guidance, but also looks for practical solutions to the issues at hand.

Jimmy Johnston (GKN Aerospace)

St. Louis, MO

Mr. Haas has been associated with our firm regarding employee relations issues since 1991. He has assisted us in areas relating to unionization, contract negotiations, and Federal and State employment issues. In addition to being extremely competent and successful in our work together, he has been an excellent educator for our firm. He not only addresses our legal issues, but also trains and nurtures our staff to avoid legal pitfalls and land mines. His preventative approach has been very beneficial. His efforts to assist our company and others through the Georgia Employers Association have been particularly useful. Mr. Haas is a proactive and dedicated attorney who deserves to be included with the Best Lawyers.

Carole Wilkinson (C-E Minerals, Inc.)

Andersonville, GA