John J. Porta stands as a highly regarded principal in the New York City office of Jackson Lewis P.C., where he also serves as the National Industry Head. His career is distinguished by his strategic approach and comprehensive expertise in employment law, making him a trusted advisor for management teams across the nation.
Mr. Porta excels in cultivating strong client relationships at the national, regional, and local levels. He dedicates his practice to advising management on their most critical and sensitive employment matters. His capabilities span the full spectrum of employment law, encompassing transactional issues, litigation, arbitration, compliance guidance and audits, executive and management training, and various other employment-related legal concerns. John’s methodology prioritizes the attainment of client’s business objectives through strategic counseling, skillful negotiation, and proactive risk management.
Throughout his tenure exclusively at Jackson Lewis, John has cultivated an in-depth understanding of the firm’s extensive resources and established a robust internal network. He leverages these assets to provide clients with superior, timely service. Having grown within the firm, he possesses firsthand knowledge of the dedication required to meet client needs and foster enduring partnerships, a perspective that significantly shapes his approach as a relationship manager. His leadership experiences within the New York area offices, including roles such as Office Business Development Liaison and mentorship chair, further enhance his client service orientation. John has consistently demonstrated a commitment to nurturing the professional growth of his colleagues, mentoring numerous associates and acting as a supportive ally within the firm’s Attorney Resource Groups.
John is a seasoned litigator, representing employers in a wide array of employment disputes before federal and state courts, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and the New York State Division of Human Rights. His litigation practice is broad, ranging from defending against individual discrimination claims to representing clients in collective actions under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). He possesses significant experience in all facets of class action litigation, including crafting litigation strategies, managing class discovery, and conducting comprehensive exposure analyses. While adept at achieving favorable outcomes for his clients through negotiation and dispositive motions, John also maintains first-chair trial experience and is well-versed in alternative dispute resolution methods, including proceedings before the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and other tribunals.
Mr. Porta provides counsel and representation to employers across diverse industries, including retail, commercial real estate, professional services, and financial services. Notably, within the retail sector, he has defended prominent luxury brand clients in complex wage and hour class action lawsuits. John also delivers sophisticated, industry-specific advice to airlines and airline service providers on a wide range of employment law issues.
Honors and Recognition
- The Best Lawyers in America©, “Labor Law – Management” (2024-Present)
- New York Super Lawyers®, “Rising Stars” (2013-2018) and “Super Lawyers” (2019-2020)
- Legal 500 USA, “Recommended Attorney” (2021)
No aspect of this or any advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. For award methodology, see [Awards and Honors Methodology](https://www.jacksonlewis.com/awards-and-honors-methodology).
