Jesse Weinstein is a partner at Phillips & Associates, a former Bronx prosecutor, and a U.S. Navy combat veteran who now represents employees in discrimination, retaliation, and whistleblower cases. In this conversation, he breaks down what counts as discrimination under New York law, why vague complaints to HR can undermine your legal standing, and how retaliation often shows up not as termination but as isolation, removed responsibilities, or inclusion in algorithmic layoffs. Weinstein also explains how contingency fee structures work, what severance agreements waive, and how pre-suit negotiation can protect careers.