John M. Stephen (Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP) – Columbus, OH

Four Decades of Employment Law Leadership

John M. Stephen is a partner at Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP in Columbus, Ohio, where he stands as a pillar of the firm’s Labor and Employment Department. With over 40 years of experience practicing exclusively in this field, John has become one of the most respected management-side employment lawyers in the Midwest. He represents employers of all sizes-from local businesses to national corporations-helping them navigate the ever-changing landscape of workplace regulations. His proactive approach emphasizes Litigation Avoidance, guiding companies to implement ‘best practices’ in human resources that prevent legal disputes before they start.

Employment Litigation and Defense

When disputes do arise, John Stephen is a seasoned litigator who defends employers in administrative, arbitration, and court proceedings. He handles a broad spectrum of cases, including Employment Discrimination, Wrongful Discharge, and Wage and Hour violations. He has extensive experience defending against claims under Title VII, the ADA, and the FMLA. His practice also includes enforcing Non-Compete Agreements and protecting trade secrets, ensuring that businesses retain their competitive edge. He is admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court and multiple federal circuit courts, reflecting his ability to handle appeals at the highest levels.

Educator and Thought Leader

Beyond his legal practice, John is a dedicated educator. Since 1987, he has served as an adjunct professor at the Capital University Law and Graduate Center, shaping the next generation of legal minds. He was also the co-editor of Ohio Employment Practices Law for over two decades, cementing his status as a thought leader in the state. Employers frequently seek him out for training seminars on topics such as sexual harassment prevention, hiring practices, and workplace privacy. His ability to translate complex legal concepts into practical management advice makes him an invaluable resource for HR professionals and business owners.

A Recognized Authority

Operating from the Huntington Center in the heart of Columbus, John’s excellence has been widely recognized. He has been named ‘Lawyer of the Year’ for Employment Law – Management by Best Lawyers in America and is consistently ranked in Chambers USA. Clients appreciate his responsiveness and his deep understanding of their business operations. Whether defending a class action lawsuit or counseling a CEO on an executive compensation package, John M. Stephen delivers the strategic, high-level counsel that defines Porter Wright’s reputation.

• Employment Litigation: Defending employers against discrimination, harassment, and retaliation claims.
• Labor Relations: Advising on union issues, collective bargaining, and unfair labor practices.
• HR Compliance: Counseling on FMLA, ADA, and wage and hour laws to minimize risk.
• Trade Secrets: Enforcing non-compete and confidentiality agreements to protect business assets.