Patricia A. Washienko, one of the expert commentators for our reporter covering the
MCAD, is a highly seasoned Boston employment attorney who represents companies and individual clients in an array of employment and compensation issues.
Her area of focus includes the negotiation and enforcement of sophisticated employment, compensation and separation agreements as well as the litigation of workplace-related claims – such as the prosecution and defense of non-competition and non-solicitation agreements. In 2005, 2006, and 2007 Boston Magazine recognized Ms. Washienko as a "Massachusetts Rising Star" in the field of
Massachusetts employment law and labor law. Later, in 2008, 2009, and 2010, Ms. Washienko received the coveted "Massachusetts Super Lawyer" distinction.
A skilled negotiator with extensive experience, Ms. Washienko often works with executives and professionals in complex contract and severance negotiations. She also represents individuals and companies litigating claims of wrongful termination, breach of contract, and employment discrimination. Ms. Washienko has led cases to successful (and even precedent-setting) resolutions in state and federal courts, governmental agencies, arbitration and mediation.
In addition, Ms. Washienko is an active member of the Boston Bar Association. There she is on the Steering Committee for the BBA's Labor and Employment Section; the Massachusetts Lesbian & Gay Bar Association, where she previously co-chaired the Employment Section; and the Massachusetts Bar Association. She has co-written many amicus curiae briefs in cases raising major issues in the areas of employment discrimination and civil rights. On top of her other responsibilities, Ms. Washienko is also involved in continuing legal education, serving on the MCLE Employment & Labor Law Curriculum Advisory Committee as well as co-chair and frequent panelist of MCLE seminars and conferences.
Ms. Washienko's educational background includes an A.B. with honors from Harvard University (1988) and a J.D. with honors from Boston University School of Law (1998). She is admitted to practice law in Massachusetts, the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts, and the First Circuit Court of Appeals.
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