Biography
Janea J. Hawkins is an associate in the Washington, D.C. Region office of Jackson Lewis P.C. She has a blend of government and private practice experience representing government agencies and private employers in a wide array of employment litigation, which uniquely enables her to help clients navigate challenging workplace law issues.
Janea’s practice focuses on representing and defending employers in a variety of legal matters, including claims in federal and state court; administrative claims of harassment; retaliation and discrimination claims on the basis of age, race, sex, and disability; wrongful discharge and breach of contract issues; and covenant not to compete disputes.
In addition to her litigation practice, Janea partners with her clients to understand their business so that she can effectively help minimize legal risk. She provides practical business advice based on “best practices” designed not only to comply with state and federal employment laws, but also to navigate challenging personnel matters before litigation arises. She is also a sought-after speaker and trainer on employment law topics including, but not limited to, unconscious bias; diversity, equity, and inclusion; conducting effective internal investigations and discrimination and harassment prevention in the workplace. Janea is a frequent speaker before human resource organizations, industry and bar associations, and conferences on employment issues.
Prior to joining Jackson Lewis, Janea worked with a small D.C. based employment litigation firm and as an assistant attorney general at the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia Personnel and Labor Relations Section, where she served as lead counsel in employment litigation matters before various administrative agencies and the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.
While attending law school, Janea was a symposium editor and published member of the Public Interest Law Reporter. Janea also received the Cooney Conway Fellowship, a prestigious scholarship for law students that demonstrate great promise in trial advocacy and the Commencement Public Service Award.
Honors and Recognitions
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Professional Associations and Activities
- American Bar Association
- Section of Litigation, Judicial Intern Opportunity Program, National Alumni Committee Co-Chair (2020-present)
- Section of Litigation, Employment and Labor Relations Committee, Newsletter Editor (2018-2019)
- Human Resource Society of Prince George’s County, Vice President of Membership, (2021-present)
- National Bar Association, Women Lawyers Division, Greater Washington Area Chapter, President (2017-2018)
- Washington Bar Association, Educational Foundation Board Member (2017-2020)
Pro Bono and Community Involvement
- Children’s Law Center, Pro Bono Attorney
- Maryland Volunteer Lawyer Services, Pro Bono Attorney
- United States District Court, District of Columbia Circuit Mediation Program, Panel Attorney
Published Works
- “Professionalism Down the Tube: Social Networking By and Against Lawyers,” Public Interest Law Reporter (April 2012) [Author]
- "Four Tips for Mentees to Make the Most out of Mentoring," American Bar Association (August 2019) [Author]
