John Ashby

John Ashby is a seasoned employment lawyer and Partner at Hawley Troxell, where he chairs the firm’s Employment & Labor practice group. He advises employers on wrongful discharge, discrimination, and wage-and-hour claims, while also guiding compliance with state and federal labor laws. John frequently conducts management training to help employers prevent workplace disputes.

John began his academic career at Boise State University, graduating magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in 2000. He then attended the University of Arizona College of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctorate, summa cum laude, in 2004. During law school, he served as Articles Editor for the Arizona Law Review and was a member of the Order of the Coif.

After law school, John clerked for the Honorable Stephen S. Trott of the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. This clerkship provided him with invaluable insight into appellate decision-making and strengthened his skills in legal analysis and advocacy—skills he continues to apply in litigation and counseling employers.

John’s career has earned him significant recognition, including listings in Best Lawyers in America for Litigation — Labor and Employment since 2017 and consistent rankings by Chambers & Partners in Idaho Employment & Labor Law. He has also been selected as a top-rated employment and labor attorney by Super Lawyers.

In addition to his legal practice, John is active in professional and community organizations. He has chaired the Idaho Bar Association’s Labor and Employment Section, served on the Human Resources Association of Treasure Valley Board, and participated in Leadership Boise. He also serves on the board of the Treasure Valley YMCA and chairs the Human Resources Committee.

Through his litigation experience, advisory role, and training initiatives, John Ashby provides employers with comprehensive strategies to manage risk and resolve disputes effectively. His practical approach emphasizes prevention but is backed by strong courtroom advocacy when necessary, making him a trusted advisor for businesses navigating complex employment law challenges.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Hawley Troxell
• Board member, Human Resources Association of Treasure Valley
• Member, Society for Human Resource Management
• Chairperson, Idaho Bar Association – Labor and Employment Section (2012-2013)
• Member, Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce, 2013-2015
• Board Member, Treasure Valley YMCA

Licensed State

• Idaho
• Arizona

Education

• University of Arizona College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Boise State University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges