Natalie R. Lynch

Bar / Professional Activity

• Texas Bar College
• Wyoming Bar Association
• Association of Workplace Investigators, Texas Circle Leader, 2022-2024, 2024
• Colorado Bar Association
• Texas State Bar Association
• Admitted to State Bar of Wyoming, Registration Number 8-7003, 2023
• Austin Bar Association Labor and Employment Section, Chair, 2022, 2022
• State Bar of Texas International Law Section, Advisory Committee Member, 2015-2021, 2021
• Austin Bar Association Labor and Employment Section, Vice Chair, 2021, 2021
• Austin Bar Association Labor and Employment Section, Secretary, 2020, 2020
• Austin Bar Association Labor and Employment Section, Treasurer, 2019, 2017
• State Bar of Texas, International Law Section Advisory Board, Jan 2015-2017, 2017
• State Bar of Texas Animal Law Section, Emcee and Conference Director, 2016-2018  , 2014
• State Bar of Texas, Animal Law Section Chair, Jan 2013, 2013
• Admitted to State Bar of Texas, Registration Number 24053979, 2012
• Aurora Bar Association of the State of Colorado, Vice Chair, 2008, 2008
• Aurora Bar Association of the State of Colorado, Chair 2007, 2007
• Admitted to State Bar of Colorado, Registration Number 38561, 2007

Special Licenses / Certifications

• The University of Texas at Austin Bureau of Business Research IC² Institute, Program Graduate, Readiness Training Program for HUBs, Issued Jan 2023, 2023
• DRC Certified Mediator
• Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM), Workplace Investigations Specialty Credential, Issued Dec 2022, ID# 22-GXYRU, 2022
• Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI), Credentialed Investigator Certificate of Distinction, Certificate #49522862, July 2018, 2018
• City of Austin, Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE), Issued Jan 2016, ID# VV00000913580, 2016
• Federal Access, Disadvantaged Business Owners (DBE), Issued Jan 2016, ID# 541110, 2016
• State of Texas, Historically Underutilized Business (HUB), Issued Jan 2016, ID# 11462262772800, 2016
• Dispute Resolution Center, Credentialed Mediator, Credentialed and in compliance with the Texas Civil Prac. & Rem Code Sec 154.052, Issued Jan 2013, 2013

Pro bono / Community Service

• Texas Humane Legislation Network, Advisory Board Member, Jan 2018 - Present  THLN is a grassroots, nonprofit animal welfare organization that promotes the humane treatment of animals through legislation, education and advocacy. Since 1975, THLN has focused on lobbying for animal protection at the Texas Legislature. After years of support and serving as an Advisory Board member, Natalie was appointed Secretary of the Board in 2017. Provided pro bono legal services, 2024
• Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Executive Committee, Secretary, and Board Member, 2018-2022   The Austin LGBT Chamber, founded in 1997 works to achieve equality and inclusion by promoting economic vitality in our communities and strengthening LGBT and ally businesses. Provided pro bono legal services, 2022
• Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, Licensed Breeder Board  Advisory Committee, Welfare position appointment, Jan 2014-2016 Through this program, the TDLR regulates the breeding and sale of cats and dogs in Texas, 2016

Honors

• Best Employment Attorney, Austin Monthly Magazine, 2023
• Best Employment Attorney, Austin Monthly Magazine, 2022
• Austin Woman Magazine was founded in 2002 with the vision to uplift and cultivate our community of inspiring women. Celebrating the work of women who are building the world we want to live in. Women who are challenging outdated structures, envisioning new models, and laying the foundations for an inclusive, authentically expressed and innovative city, Woman's Way Business of the Year Nominee, Austin Woman Magazine, 2021
• The Travis County Women's Legal Foundation (TCWLA) mission includes strengthening the image and position of women lawyers in the community. One way that TCWLA achieves that goal is through its awards program. Since 1991, TCWLA has celebrated the contributions of the unsung heroines of the legal profession. These awards are meant to highlight the low-profile contributions made by members of the profession. These individuals are assets to the local legal community. The award recipients, who are nominated by their peers, show their merit in their work, their volunteer activities and the atmosphere they create in the workplace. The criteria for consideration are that the person practice law in Travis County and serve the local community in some fashion. The nominees need not be members of TCWLA. One of the awards recognizes a firm, organization, or government entity for hiring women or for progressive work-place policies such as innovative job sharing, day care, flex and part-time work programs, or alternative partnership tracks. The other awards are Pro Bono, Public Interest, Litigation, Transactional, Contribution to Minority Community, President’s Award, and Outstanding Achievement, Corporate and Transactional Attorney of the Year, Travis County Women's Legal Foundation, 2021
• Best Employment Attorney, Austin Monthly Magazine, 2021
• Best Employment Attorney, Austin Monthly Magazine, 2020
• Named after its first recipient, former Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce (ALGBTCC) board chair and Austin City Council member, the Jimmy Flannigan Leadership Award has been given to a chamber board or staff member who has demonstrated outstanding achievement, unwavering dedication and service to the chamber and Austin’s LGBTQ community. Board Chair Chase Kinnanon had the following to say when presenting the award: “Natalie is one of those people whose impact is enormous, yet largely behind the scenes and unsung. It is an honor to now sign her praises in the most public way. Natalie’s impact on the board touches every aspect of the Chamber. Her work on the Executive Committee during our search for a new Executive Director was invaluable, and her continuing work as secretary, committee member, and unofficial “mom” of the board will impact the Chamber for a long time to come. It is important to recognize that not only is Natalie an award-winning board director, she is the very definition of an ideal Chamber business member. They Lynch Law Firm is a shining example of how to successfully leverage Chamber membership to build and grow a small business. Natalie has found creative ways to work with other Chamber members, forging strong and profitable B-to-B partnerships. Her firm has won a number of clients because of her work and visibility at the Chamber. I’ve heard, and I’m sure there are many versions of this, that the slang term “family” dates from the AIDS crisis of the ‘80s, when sick and dying victims, whose biological families had disowned them, were taken in and cared for by their straight (and often lesbian, bi, or trans) friends. This is the second year in a row that this award has been given to a straight ally, which is totally by chance, but I want to say to Natalie, from all of us, that you truly are family. Like it or not!”, 2019 Jimmy Flannigan Leadership Award, Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce, 2019
• Received recognition before some of the most relevant and hardworking contributors to animal welfare in Texas because of contributions made to help sustaining, promote, fundraise, facilitate, and further the efforts of the Texas Humane Legislative Network. Specific contributions include work furthering the Texas Humane Legislative Network's Puppy Mill bill and assisting with the annual conference., Advisory Board Member with Most Notable Contributions, Texas Humane Legislative Network, 2016
• Colorado Bar Association, Future Leaders Award, Jan 2009, Future Leaders Award, Colorado Bar Association, 2009
• President’s Award for Service, Aurora Bar Association of the State of Colorado, 2009
• President’s Award for Service, Aurora Bar Association of the State of Colorado, 2007

Educational Background

• Texas A&M University, Bachelor of Arts, International Studies, Business, 2001
• Universidad de Granada, Foreign Alumna
• Sturm College of Law, University of Denver
• South Texas College of Law, JD

White Papers

• Austn Lawyer Magazine. (Nov 2023). Austin Bar Association. Abstract: In the complex labor and employment law world, the importance of workplace investigations cannot be overstated. Understanding why workplace investigations matter is fundamental for attorneys specializing in this field. These investigations have legal implications and impact the financial well-being of both employers and employees, Learn the Crucial Aspects of Workplace Investigations, Legal, 2023

Scholarly Lectures / Writings

• Abstract: Discussed when workplace investigations are recommended, related best  practices for conducting investigations, preparing for and conducting witness interviews, and documenting and communicating findings. Reviewed special provisions contained in the Texas Occupations Code and Texas Attorney General’s Opinions that specify who may conduct workplace investigations in Texas., Presenter, The Nuts and Bolts of Investigations in Texas, Austin Bar Association, Labor & Employment Section, Association of Workplace Investigators, Legal, 2019
• Abstract: Summarized new and pending employment law legislation and related cases likely to impact Texas employers., Presenter, Legislative and Case Update, Austin Bar Association, Labor & Employment Section, Association of Workplace Investigators, Legal, 2019
• Abstract: Want to turn that side hustle into your full-time gig? Before you take the plunge, check out the benefits and challenges of running your own business!, Panelist, Entrepreneurship in Austin-What is Entrepreneurship, Workforce Solutions Capital Area, the City of Austin, and the Multi-Ethnic Chamber Alliance, Job Seekers, 2020
• Abstract: In the first days of vaccine distribution, employers are wondering how vaccines affect their workforces and workforce policies. This talk covers the intersection of the COVID vaccine and pay, discrimination, policy, culture, and other various laws. In the first days of vaccine distribution, employers are wondering how vaccines affect their workforces and workforce policies. This talk covers the intersection of the COVID vaccine and pay, discrimination, policy, culture, and other various laws., Presenter, The COVID Vaccine Is No Immunity for Employers, Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Business Owners, 2021
• Abstract: Presented alongside Larry O'Donnell (formerly of Waste Management). The presentation recognized Natalie's career successes and focused on the overcome challenges presented in her progress. Specifically, Natalie presented academic data and her own personal story around the imposter phenomenon. Additionally, she addressed what she dubs as the "Power of 'I don't know' and 'I don't understand." She also covered strategic pauses in learning new career skills and the concept of 'fake it 'till you make it." Those topics were incorporated into stories about the challenges and accomplishments of her legal career, thus far.  , Presenter, My Leadership Story, Austin Bar Association's Leadership Academy, Legal, 2021
• Abstract: With the turn of events in the year 2020, women of all backgrounds have experienced what it means to be resilient, adaptable, and forward-thinking. This symposium explored the ways women can empower themselves and one another to conquer new norms throughout the journey of life, Presenter, Onward & Upward: The Era of the Empowered Woman, 2021 Texas Women in Leadership Symposium, National Diversity Council, Women Leaders, 2021
• Abstract: Moderated panel between animal rescue organizations, concerned individuals, and law enforcement. Addressed how to work collaboratively instead of at odds to achieve better outcomes for needy animals. Worked through the anatomy of a law enforcement case to share ways that good samaritans unwittingly allow abusers to go unconvicted and identified processes within law enforcement that create difficulties in sheltering, Moderator, Achieving Better Outcomes for Animals in Need, Texas Unites for Animals Conference, animal shelters, Law Enforcement, 2021
• Abstract: This panel of experts tackled some of the most important points to ensure a healthy, successful, and smart business. Panelists: Becky Arreaga, Liz Arreaga, Juan Carlos Bucente, Natalie Lynch Moderator: Josh Kettler, Panelist, The LGBT Small Business Trifecta: Finance, Insurance, and Legal 101 for Small Businesses, SXSW Conference & Festivals, LGBT, Business Owners, 2022
• Abstract: Presented current information regarding employment law impacting animal shelters employing animal care and service workers. Topics covered functional and legal concepts in charitable, law enforcement, governmental, and for-profit organizations.  , Presenter, Employment Law and Sheltering, Texas Unites for Animals Conference, animal shelters, Law Enforcement, 2022
• Abstract: The consequences of HR's routine task of workplace investigations for the downstream law firm, Presenter, Workplace Investigations and Their Use in Litigation, WILCO Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) · Central Texas SHRM (2022), Human Resources, 2023
• Abstract: Examination of workplace investigations and their use in litigation of the underlying complaint. Specific examination of the credentialing that should be sought in an investigator and the benefit of investigator credentialing. Additional common problems include 1) investigators who lump problems into a scenario rather than individual claims, 2) when it is troublesome to use HR/internal investigators and other conflicts of interest matters, 3) analysis of when an investigation is “prompt” or “immediate” such that it complies with state and federal law, 4) moving investigations to remote scenarios, and 5) why firms can have the investigation or litigation but not both (Texas Disciplinary Rules of Conduct 3.08)., Presenter, Workplace Investigations and Their Use in Litigation, Wyoming Bar Association, Texas Aggie Bar Association Conference, Austin Bar Association's Civil Litigation Section, Legal, 2023
• Abstract: Did you know that Texas is leading the nation in progressive sexual harassment laws? This interactive session, delved into the complexities of workplace investigations and their pivotal role in litigation. Participants gained critical insights into why investigator credentialing matters, how improper handling of complaints can lead to personal liability for management, and why using unqualified third parties for investigations is a legal risk you can’t afford to take. With a focus on the practical application of state and federal requirements, explored the challenges of remote investigations and the implications of conflicts of interest, particularly concerning the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Conduct 3.08. Equip yourself with the knowledge to safeguard your organization and ensure compliance with the latest legal standards., Presenter, Workplace Investigations and Their Use in Litigation: Navigating Legal Pitfalls and Ensuring Compliance, Austin Bar Association, Legal, 2024

• Education
• Government Agencies
• Health Care
• Manufacturing
• Retail
• Social Platforms
• Start Ups
• Technology
• Waste Management