Christen’s practice focuses on employment law, as well as business litigation and insurance defense. She counsels clients on a variety of employment-related matters and defends clients in discrimination and harassment cases before the New York State Division of Human Rights and the EEOC as well as in State and Federal Court. She also represents clients in matters involving premises liability, insurance defense, construction disputes and business disputes. Prior to joining Mackenzie Hughes, Christen practiced as an in-house counsel for two Fortune 100 insurance companies. She most recently secured a defense verdict in a motor vehicle accident with a mid-six-figure pre-trial demand and regularly settles cases through negotiation, mediation and arbitration.
Christen is an active participant in the New York State Bar Association and remains a member of the Florida Bar Association and the California Bar Association.
Christen lives in Fayetteville with her husband, Milton, and her children, Madi and Benn. She enjoys travelling, skiing and spending time with her family and friends.
Practice Areas
Professional and Community Activities
Current:
- Member, New York Bar Association
- Member, Onondaga Bar Association
- Member, Central New York Women’s Bar Association
Prior:
- Executive Board Member, Women in eDiscovery, Los Angeles Chapter
- Board Member, Thomas Edison Educational Foundation
- Member, Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles
Education
- Bachelor of Science, Canisius College
- Master of Business Administration, Canisius College
- Juris Doctor, Brooklyn Law School
Admissions
- New York State Bar
- Florida State Bar
- California State Bar
News
Mackenzie Hughes Hires Christen Santiago
Mackenzie Hughes LLP has hired Christen D. Santiago as a Partner in the firm. Christen’s practice focuses on business litigation, labor and employment and insurance defense. She handles matters including premises liability, motor vehicle accidents, commercial disputes, employment discrimination defense, medical malpractice defense and professional liability defense. Prior to joining Mackenzie Hughes, Christen practiced as inhouse counsel for two Fortune 100 insurance companies. She most […]
Blog
What’s New in 2024 and Coming in 2025 for New York Employment Laws
As employers in New York adapt to a shifting regulatory environment, it’s crucial to stay informed about recent and upcoming changes to employment laws. Here is an overview of key legislation enacted in 2024 and what to expect in 2025. Employment Laws Enacted in 2024 Minimum Wage Increases. On January 1, 2024, the minimum wage […]
2024 Election: Considerations for Private-Sector Employers in New York
With the 2024 election just two weeks away, employers in New York should understand their legal obligations with respect to employees’ participation in the election and expression of political speech in the employment setting. Must Employers Provide Employees in New York with Time-Off to Vote in the Election? Yes, Depending on the Circumstances. Generally, employees […]
The Federal Non-Compete Ban Was Found to Be Unlawful, Now What?
What is a non-compete agreement? A non-compete agreement is a contractual provision that prohibits an employee from working for a competitor or opening a competing business after they leave a job. It can be a stand-alone agreement or part of another contract that the employee signs before or during their employment with the employer. A […]