Rachel V. Stevens

Currently, she leads a historic employment discrimination class action lawsuit on behalf of New York City public-school teachers. In this matter, which has been active for nearly 30 years, Rachel has twice prevailed at the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, worked with experts to develop a complex damages model, navigated an arcane regulatory framework to obtain back pay and pension relief, and worked one-on-one with thousands of individual class members. She also advises clients on insurance and supply chain recovery opportunities. In this role, she helps clients obtain insurance coverage and ensure minimal to no disruptions to key supplier relationships. Finally, Rachel advises public universities on issues related to liability associated with federal grants and contracts. She has appeared in federal and state courts in New York, New Jersey, Washington D.C., and Illinois, and has substantial experience in appellate proceedings.

Rachel is also dedicated to pro bono work. Over the years, she has partnered with clients and New York City agencies on pro bono projects that tackle discrimination, poverty, and hunger and support Head Start programs. Notably, she was honored by the New York City Coalition Against Hunger in 2012 for outstanding anti-hunger advocacy work, and she was separately twice honored by her prior firm for her dedication to pro bono matters. In 2025, Crowell awarded Rachel with a George Bailey Public Service Award, which recognizes the firm’s lawyers and staff who have made a substantial impact on the lives of others.