John M. McKelway, Jr.

John M. McKelway, Jr. is a partner at McCarter & English, LLP, where he represents corporations and senior executives in complex labor and employment matters. With over 40 years of experience, he is highly regarded for his strategic counsel and courtroom skill in managing high-stakes disputes involving discrimination claims, executive contracts, trade secrets, and workplace investigations. Clients value his ability to handle challenging employment issues with professionalism, discretion, and efficiency.

John earned his Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School in 1979 and his Bachelor of Arts from Middlebury College in 1976. This strong academic background shaped his analytical and advocacy skills, providing the foundation for his long and successful legal career. John’s exceptional work has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America and Chambers USA, where he has consistently ranked among Massachusetts’ leading labor and employment attorneys for more than a decade.

Throughout his distinguished career, John has defended clients in arbitration, litigation, and appellate proceedings involving millions of dollars in potential exposure. He has extensive experience handling injunctions in non-compete and trade secret cases, as well as conducting sensitive internal investigations into allegations of misconduct or harassment. His experience also extends to the employment aspects of corporate mergers and acquisitions, ensuring clients remain compliant during major transitions.

Beyond litigation, John M. McKelway, Jr. is a respected author and frequent speaker on critical employment law topics, including workplace privacy, technology risks, and regulatory compliance. His practical insight helps businesses maintain ethical, efficient, and legally sound operations. With a reputation built on integrity and results, John continues to shape the field of employment law through strategic advocacy and thought leadership.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, McCarter & English, LLP
• Member, Massachusetts Bar Association
• Member, Boston Bar Association
• Member, Society for Human Resource Management

Licensed State

• Massachusetts

Education

• Suffolk University Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Middlebury College
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges