Jocelyn Burton is a highly accomplished attorney with over 35 years of experience specializing in employment law, civil litigation, and dispute resolution. Recognized as a SuperLawyer in Northern California since 2012, she is one of the foremost experts in employment discrimination, wrongful termination, harassment, wage and hour disputes, and other employment-related legal matters. Known for her ability to tackle complex legal issues with efficiency and professionalism, Ms. Burton has served both as a trusted advisor and a fierce advocate for her clients.

Ms. Burton is the principal at Burton Employment Law, a San Francisco Bay Area law firm where she provides comprehensive employment litigation and counseling services. Her practice covers a broad range of employment law topics, including discrimination, retaliation, harassment, wage and hour issues, and legal compliance. Her clientele includes both individuals and organizations, and she is known for delivering strategic counsel on complex issues such as employment contracts, severance agreements, independent contractor arrangements, and employee privacy.

Before founding Burton Employment Law in 2011, Ms. Burton honed her legal skills at top-tier law firms and in public service. She spent over a decade as an Assistant United States Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California, where she was responsible for prosecuting and defending a wide range of federal cases, including employment discrimination, torts, administrative law, and affirmative civil enforcement. Her ability to navigate these complex areas of law led to the successful prosecution of hundreds of cases and over 80 civil appeals before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Her leadership abilities were further highlighted during her tenure as Civil Chief in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, where she supervised a team of 19 attorneys, 6 paralegals, and 19 support staff while managing around 1,500 pending civil cases. She was responsible for overseeing all civil litigation, including employment-related cases, torts, and civil rights violations. Ms. Burton’s ability to lead and manage high-stakes litigation has earned her a reputation as both a legal strategist and an effective team leader.

Ms. Burton’s commitment to legal excellence extends beyond litigation. As a certified mediator and arbitrator, she brings alternative dispute resolution methods into her practice, helping clients resolve conflicts outside the courtroom. She is also an active speaker and contributor to the legal community, having presented at numerous seminars and educational programs on topics such as subconscious bias, employment law ethics, employee wellness programs, and workplace investigations.

In addition to her legal career, Ms. Burton is deeply committed to education and public service. She is serving her seventh term on the Board of Trustees at Wake Forest University, where she earned her undergraduate degree. She also holds a Master of Public Affairs from the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin and a Juris Doctor from the University of Chicago Law School.

Ms. Burton’s extensive experience, legal acumen, and dedication to fairness have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition by SuperLawyers and Martindale-Hubbell for her work in employment law. Her leadership in the legal field and commitment to advocating for justice continues to shape her practice today.

Her vast skillset includes expertise in employment law, employment litigation, discrimination cases, civil litigation, appeals, retaliation claims, harassment claims, and employment agreements. She has been endorsed by colleagues and clients alike for her ability to manage complex legal cases, her meticulous attention to detail, and her unwavering commitment to her clients’ success.

Ms. Burton’s journey from a law student to a recognized leader in employment law demonstrates her passion for the profession and her drive to ensure fairness for all. With a career that has spanned decades, she continues to influence the legal landscape through her dedicated practice, thought leadership, and contributions to the broader legal community.

Character:

Jocelyn Burton is a dedicated professional with an unwavering commitment to fairness and justice. Her career is defined by integrity, leadership, and a tireless work ethic that have earned her the respect of peers and clients alike.

Knowledge:

With over 35 years of experience, Jocelyn has developed a deep expertise in employment law, litigation, and dispute resolution. She is highly skilled in handling complex legal issues, from discrimination claims to wage disputes and beyond.

Strategic:

Jocelyn’s strategic approach to legal challenges is one of her defining strengths. She has successfully managed large teams, overseen high-profile cases, and provided actionable legal counsel that helps clients navigate complex employment issues with confidence.

Communication:

Jocelyn is an exceptional communicator, both in the courtroom and with clients. Her ability to explain intricate legal concepts in clear and understandable terms, as well as her skill in negotiation and dispute resolution, sets her apart as an influential legal leader.