Jackson Lewis P.C., one of the country’s preeminent workplace law firms, is pleased to announce Jennette E. DePonte has joined the firm’s Dallas office as a Principal. Ms. DePonte has more than 20 years of litigation and trial experience in employment-related matters.
Ms. DePonte has an extensive litigation and trial background, having tried numerous cases in state and federal courts in Texas. Her practice focuses on litigation involving employer-employee relations. Specifically, she has litigated tort and non-subscriber claims, employment-related torts, discrimination, harassment and retaliation claims, wage and hour claims, as well as civil rights claims under state and federal law.
“I am ready to help clients navigate the uncharted territory we are now in,” said Ms. DePonte. “Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to impact every organization differently. I look forward to guiding our clients through the unprecedented business strategy decisions that must be made during this difficult time.”
Ms. De Ponte has defended national and regional employers in a wide range of employment-related issues, represented employers before numerous federal and state agencies, and handled trials and appeals in federal and state courts. Ms. De Ponte also provides clients with general advice and counseling on a variety of employment and human resources matters.
“Jennette’s trial and counseling experience adds depth and breadth to our attorney roster in Dallas, and we are happy to add her to our team,” said Dallas Office Managing Principal Paul E. Hash. “Jackson Lewis helps businesses navigate complex legal issues every day, and Jennette’s experience will offer a unique perspective to our clients as they seek our help to interpret guidance related to the COVID-19 crisis and subsequently put new best practices in place.”
Ms. DePonte attained Board Certification from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS) in Labor and Employment Law in 2007 and in Civil Trial Law in 2012. This double Board Certification earns her a spot among only 21 of the approximately 98,000 attorneys licensed in the State of Texas who are Board Certified in both areas. She earned her B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin and her J.D. from the South Texas College of Law.
Prior to Ms. DePonte’s time in private practice, she served as an Assistant Attorney General in the U.S. Virgin Islands and served as Assistant Attorney General for the State of Texas in the Law Enforcement Defense Division, where she represented state law enforcement agencies and officials in employment and civil rights litigation and appeals.
