About Carla P. Maresca
Carla P. Maresca, Esq. brings more than 30 years of experience in employment and civil rights law. Carla’s practice focuses on employment litigation, mediation and arbitration, administrative agency proceedings, employment counseling, workplace investigations, and civil rights matters. She advises clients on compliance with federal and state employment laws, represents them in EEOC and state agency proceedings, drafts employment policies and handbooks, and provides training on workplace best practices.
As the founder and former Co-Chair of an Employment Law and Civil Rights Litigation Group of a prominent Philadelphia law firm, Carla managed a team of attorneys representing clients in all aspects of employment matters. She has also served as primary agency charge Counsel for two of the nation’s largest employers, handling over one hundred EEOC and state administrative agency matters each year.
In addition to her litigation practice, Carla serves as a mediator and arbitrator in employment disputes. Her broad experience representing clients on all sides of workplace disputes allows her to evaluate cases from multiple perspectives and develop practical, effective solutions. Known for her thorough preparation, practical judgment, and collaborative approach, Carla is committed to helping clients navigate complex employment matters efficiently and strategically.
A frequent lecturer on employment law topics, Carla has presented continuing legal education programs on the ADA, FMLA, workplace investigations, social media evidence, and municipal liability. She has also been recognized by Super Lawyers multiple years for her work in employment law.
From 2017-2023, Carla took a hiatus from litigation to handle mediations and to pursue her dream of traveling the world and creating a design company, which she still owns and operates to date. She returned to active litigation practice in 2023 and continues to offer mediation and arbitration services.
Practice Areas in Pennsylvania, New Jersey & New York
- Employment and Civil Rights Law
- Mediation and Arbitration
- Civil Rights Litigation
- Employment Counseling and Compliance
- Policy Development and Employee Handbooks
- EEOC and Administrative Agency Proceedings
Publications & Lectures
- Counsel on Litigation Management CE Program, Litigation 101 & 102 for Insurance Adjusters, Claims, and Risk Managers
- Lozano v. City of Hazelton: A Review of Recent U.S. Court Decisions on Preemption, For the Defense (Defense Research Institute magazine)
- Municipal Seminar, the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act: How You Can Help Your Clients
- Municipal Seminar, Defending Equal Protection Claims Brought against Municipal Entities
- Municipal Seminar, Emerging Issues in Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
- Municipal Seminar, the FMLA and the ADA: How the Two Statutes Overlap
- Municipal Seminar, How to Achieve a Workplace Free from Sexual Harassment and Gender Stereotype
- Pennsylvania Bar Institute, 13th Annual Northeast Regional Employment Law Institute (CLE), The Five Hottest Issues in Municipal Employer Liability Claims
- Pennsylvania Bar Institute, 15th Annual Northeast Regional Employment Law Institute (CLE), Crisis Management: What to Do When Managers Depart from Personnel Policies and Standard Operating Procedures
- Seminar, Council on Litigation Management Professional Liability Mini Conference, Navigating the ADA and the ADAAA
- Seminar, How Social Media Investigations Can Further Advance Your Case
Education
- Villanova University, 1991
- Villanova University School of Law, 1995
Admissions
- Pennsylvania
- U.S. Supreme Court
- U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit
- U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit
- U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania
- U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania
- U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania
Awards & Recognition
- Super Lawyer, Employment Litigation, 2006-2016
*The awards and accolades displayed on this website were issued to the attorneys, or the entire law firm, by the respective providers of these honors. Please note that no aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. Learn more about the Super Lawyers selection methodology.
Client Testimonials
Best Plaintiff Employment Attorney in Philadelphia I have had a number of cases with MR. Gold and I have found him to be extremely well prepared as well as very civil in his dealing with opposing counsel without compromising the interests of his client.” “I tried a jury trial against Sid. Although the jury ruled in my favor, he was a masterful advocate that commanded the courtroom. Sidney Gold is fearless. The best employment litigator working, and yet still is always a gentleman. It is my pleasure to know him. His skills as an interrogator have to be witnessed to be believed. He can make even an honest witness question themselves. I’ve never been lucky enough to see Sid argue to a jury, but it would be worth the few days off just to see what could be learned from him. Excellent trial lawyer who is extremely effective in negotiating […]
- Super Lawyers Peer Reviews
I did quite a bit of research to learn this firm is unquestionably the best around. Sidney Gold had well-founded doubts about my uncommon and difficult case. It was small potatoes, as they say, but a major matter of principle to me. It actually surprised me when Mr. Gold accepted my case. I worked with his associate, Bill Reiser, who was very straight-forward and matter-of-fact about our chances. When it looked like the case was heading south, he made a very clever play — something of a Hail Mary– and not only did we win, but we came out much better than we expected. Bill is smart, savvy and honest. We didn’t always agree, but Bill still heard me out about strategy and took the time to discuss his rationale along the way. The various team members at Sidney Gold & Associates were extremely professional throughout the process. If you […]
- M.L.
Mr. Gold is exceptional to work with. Thorough, extremely honest, and has a wealth of experience to back up his guidance. Him and his team are extremely responsive and easy to contact, they even followed up to make sure I got everything I needed. So glad I was able to work with him and look forward to working together in the future!
- Sara R.
I came to Sid for a consultation regarding an employment issue. He was very knowledgeable and made time for me right away.
- Mark S.
Does Attorney Sidney Gold know the employment laws? Absolutely! If you’re looking for an intelligent, sharp, and compassionate lawyer, he is your man. It’s that simple. His staff Joan, Leanne, Traci, and Denise are just marvelous! Attorney Gold has exceeded my expectation so if you’re smart, you will contact this incredible man.
- Anne C.
Mr. Gold and his entire staff were exceptionally responsive, thorough, and overall wonderful to work with. I haven’t been in Philadelphia long, but long enough to know that the customer service and responsiveness he gave my family and I is not always the norm for businesses. My wife and I couldn’t be more pleased, and should we need any legal advice or assistance in the future, we will come to him without question or hesitation.
- Richard S.
I am forever grateful being referred to Sidney Gold & Associates and having the opportunity to meet Neelima Vanguri. She is an exceptional attorney who “knows her stuff”. My case was not easy, but she never stopped fighting for me to ensure that I received justice in this matter. Sidney Gold & Associates care about their clients and I would highly recommend this firm, but would definitely recommend Neelima for legal support.
- Michelle D.
This is truly a first class operation second to none. Bill Rieser treated me like family, always followed up with me and was happy to answer all of my questions throughout the entire process. They made a terrible situation tolerable and were able to get me justice.
- Andrew W.
I have been speaking to countless attorneys for my case because of the “complexity”. During our consultation, he was more helpful than anyone I have spoken to. He breaks everything down, makes sure you understand it, and gives excellent advice. HE CARES! I finally have a plan going forward. He really went ABOVE AND BEYOND and that Is who you want in your corner. Grateful to have found him.
- Peter L.
I strongly recommend Mr. Gold for his employment-related services. He was incredibly helpful in resolving my legal matters efficiently and making sure my needs were met. After speaking to him briefly about my case, he was able to immediately understand my concerns and provide appropriate guidance. He quickly put my mind at ease and resolved the matter within just a few days. I would definitely seek his advice for any employment-related matters in the future.
- Adit R.
Mr. Gold is patient, listens thoroughly and is brilliantly knowledgeable. He invites questions and very concisely offers feedback. I have worked with many attorneys throughout my business/medical career and have never met someone as superior as Mr. Gold.
- Don C.
Sidney offered wonderful help and legal guidance to myself while negotiating an employment contract. He was full of knowledge and took the time to explain aspects of the contract that I could not understand. Sidney’s expertise made me feel very supported and confident in contract negotiating. He responded to emails and was able to meet / discuss things, both during business hours and after hours. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone with legal needs, especially employment issues. I had a complex case, in which Sidney did not shy away from. He helped me challenge items and I felt he was always attempting to put my needs and career as priority.
- Lyn R.
Best employment discrimination attorney in the city.
- S.M. Davids
Miss Gold is the absolute best has the heart of Gold!
- L. Burke
My experience working with Sidney Gold was wonderful. He was able to break down a professional contract so I could see through the catches and loop holes. Very thankful for his time.