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Jill Havens

Employment and labor Attorney at Boston, MA

5.0   93 reviews
Message
  • Licensed for 13 years
    State MA
    Acquired 2009
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Outstanding attorney to work with.
Saif AL
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
Ms.
Jesula
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
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About Jill

Learn Jill’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. Employment and labor
    60%
    I practice Employee Justice Law. I do employment and labor law - on the plaintiff's side only. I handle Unemployment cases, Discrimination, MCAD complaints, Wage and Hour claims, Overtime and Minimum Wage issues, employee and union contract negotiations, and wrongful terminations.

    11 years, 85 cases

  2. Employee benefits
    40%
    I handle all aspects of Employee Unemployment Insurance matters and hearings

    11 years, 300 cases

I represent only Workers - never Employers!

 

I have been fighting for workers’ rights for over 20 years.  I have worked as a union organizer, and employee advocate and an attorney.  I know how workers are treated in this country and I know that it is no simple task to secure basic rights.   Employees have always had to fight for their rights for fair treatment.

 

I formerly worked as a staff attorney at the Massachusetts Unemployment appeals board (the Board of Review).  I reviewed hundreds of cases and know many of the ins and outs and technicalities that make a difference between winning and losing an Unemployment Appeal.

Photos and videos

COVID-19 and Unemployment Interview with the Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts of Massachusetts
Unemployment during the Pandemic Interview with Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts Massachusetts
Unemployment in the MassachusettsNon-Profit Sector. Presentation of Mass Cultural Council

Photos and videos

COVID-19 and Unemployment Interview with the Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts of Massachusetts
Unemployment during the Pandemic Interview with Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts Massachusetts
Unemployment in the MassachusettsNon-Profit Sector. Presentation of Mass Cultural Council

Contact Jill

Similar lawyers nearby

Workplace Justice Law Group LLC
11 Green Street
Boston, MA, 02130
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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0
  93 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Posted by Saif AL | March 31, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding attorney to work with.
I worked with attorney Jill on an unemployment claim. She was a fantastic person to work with and a very professional lawyer. I had called over 25 different law firms; Jill was the best person and everyone I spoke with. I can’t say enough good things about this amazing person. Highly recommend doing business and working with this understanding attorney.
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Posted by Jesula | March 20, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ms.
After receiving the excellent legal services of Attorney Jill Havens, and her supporting team member, Louise Robinson, I strongly believe that they are the epitome of efficiency and effectiveness. As of Attorney Havens, she was very nice and extremely attentive to my particular needs related to some Unemployment issues, and delivered great results by solving my problems beyond expectations. Therefore, I highly recommend Attorney Jill Havens. You won’t regret it. Thank you for your attention.
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Posted by Michael | February 8, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
incredibly thankful
I spent a year and a half completely stressed out over a bureacratic mistake and could not get anyone to listen to me. Thank God I found Attorney Jill Havens who resolved my case in no time. I am truly greatful for her assistance and finally being able to have peace of mind. Thank you!
Posted by Mike | February 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Miracle worker with the DUA
The Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) had made a mistake on my account and said I owed them a significant amount of money. I tried to resolve this myself by writing, calling and emailing the DUA to no avail. Finally after over 2 years of failed attempts I gave up trying to fix this myself. Fortunately, I was put in touch will Jill Havens. She and I spoke once and within a matter of days my case was cleared as her one letter to them cleared everything. I now have peace of mind without this false claim hanging over me! My only regret is waiting over 2 years to call Jill. I should have done so sooner.
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Posted by Shannon | December 28, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Jill is a lifesaver
Jill was a critical part of getting my complicated MA DUA claim approved. The DUA process was painfully slow, time-consuming, and stressful, but Jill helped me every step of the way. Jill is incredibly knowledgeable about the MA DUA and its process and she was quick to respond to any questions I had. I highly recommend Jill to any person who needs help with their MA DUA claim. She is a lifesaver.
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Posted by Steven | December 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I'd recommend Jill to anybody!
I went to Jill feeling absolutely hopeless about my claim, and terrified with the $22,000 debt the state of MA was claiming I owed them after my determination being overturned. She not only got my determination and overpayment overturned, but I ended up getting another $10,000 that they owed me in pending payments from the year my claim was tied up. I had debt racked up from trying to survive without my payments and had no way of paying that money back if they ended up wanting it. Jill really saved me from a terrible situation and kept me calm throughout with her stern and informed personality. I just knew she had it under control when I first met with her, and I was right. I would recommend Jill to anybody who feels they have been wronged or feels they are owed money by their jobs or the department of unemployment, even if it feels hopeless, because if anybody can find a solution- it's Jill.
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Posted by Gerald | November 24, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saved my financial life
I was in a financial quagmire with the DUA that was such a mess even the Unemployment office couldn’t figure out what they themselves did. Attorney Haven masterfully reworked their paperwork so it even made sense to them. She was able to stop the DUA’s collection proceedings while saving me five figure penalties. I will not deal with any state agency again without first consulting attorney Havens.
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Posted by anonymous | November 11, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Jill Havens is a great advocate and guide...
I consulted with and then hired Jill to represent me, and she made the experience as smooth and painless as possible. Jill is a great advocate to have on your side: she is deeply knowledgeable, competent, and reliable. She was easy to reach, made herself available as much as possible, and answered any questions that I had. In addition, Jill really listens and her calm, guiding demeanor was a welcome resource. I am very grateful to Jill for her expertise and walking me through the experience, and I would whole-heartedly recommend her to anyone seeking assistance.
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Posted by Vladimir | November 10, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellence and knowledge.
I had been looking for legal counsel or possibility of hiring regarding a Pandemic Unemployment Assistance repayment claim. Every place that I either called or reached out did not want to take it due to complications of my case. Then I had founded Jill office which is not far from me. Jill’s assistance heard me clear and reassure me that Jill would get back to me. Virtually meet due to pandemic, Jill great listener to start with, gathering all information that it might help my individual case is a key. Which she did with kindness, compassion. Therefore, walk me thoroughly and gave me some great insights as well advices. I cannot say enough good things about Jill and her expertise, guidance and assistance. I totally and fully agree with all reviews that I have read about Jill, and I would add that there are not enough stars ratings for Jill Havens.  Thanks Jill and I hope that people would not be hesitate to either consult or hire Jill Havens if they need it. 
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Posted by Emilia | October 30, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great Legal Cosultation Ending in Winning Hearing!
I had a legal consult with Jill regarding a Pandemic Unemployment Assistance repayment claim. I had a tight timeline and she was able to virtually meet with me shortly after I reached out. She took the time to thoroughly review the details of my case and gave me some great insights and advice that I used for my appeal and hearing. I won my hearing which was such a relief! I am very grateful for Jill and service she provided.
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Posted by Steve | October 28, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Jill Havens
I cannot say enough good things about Jill. I hired her to help me regarding an overpayment with My unemployment claim. Without Jill’s expertise, guidance and assistance I never would have been able to get my decision reversed in my favor. Jill is extremely knowledgeable and professional and I Highly recommend Jill . I would never have been able to navigate my way through this different and trying process without her. She is The Best !!
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Posted by anonymous | June 20, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very difficult if not almost impossible unemployment case won
Two years ago Searched and made many phone calls to other law offices in my area not one did unemployment over payment issue so i googled and Jill's office came up Reach out and they were back to me promptly . Jill explained to me in great detail How to go thru the process of request a hearing on late appeal I thought when i appealed one issue that problems were all resolved I learned 6 month latter they were not and i sill owed money. 2 years latter i heard from MA DUA for a Hearing reached back out to Jill send her Many Hearing folders she went thru them explained how difficult may case was and told me frankly my chance of losing was high. but with the amount of money i had on line it was worth it for me to appeal. I Hired Jill to attend the hearing with me she did a great job prepping me for the questions they may ask. All and all said I end up getting * issue with MA DUA reversed in my favor. would highly recommend Jill!! she is very Honest and her rates are fair
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Posted by anonymous | June 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Got me through one of the most challenging points in my life
I cannot recommend Jill highly enough. She doesn’t just win, she walks you through the process with kindness, compassion, and perspicacity, eliciting the right information at the right time. She makes me feel heard - conveying her empathy, while ensuring we make good use of time and she gets the information she needs. I know that when I work with Jill, she has me covered.
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Posted by anonymous | May 21, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Definitely the right person to work with!
I got a chance to work with Mrs. Havens on my unemployment case. She is definitely the right person to work with. She has a very good knowledge of the law and most importantly proactive Thank you Mrs. Havens!
Posted by Karen | April 3, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Client
Attorney Havens' office was very prompt and responsive to my case. Her office staff is very friendly, helpful, professional, and conscientious. Attorney Havens truly listened to my situation, which was complicated, and explained how to approach my case in a strategic way. She was patient, but straightforward. She helped me "think through" how the appeals committee might respond, and how to adjust my responses. She was reasonable in her charges, respectful of my situation, and definitely guided the positive outcome of my case. I would highly recommend her legal services without any reservations whatsoever!
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Posted by Skooby | March 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great counsel for PUA situation
I sought Jill's counsel because I needed to substantiate my employment with the MA DUA for pandemic unemployment benefits that I had received last year. Jill explained the process to me in clear detail and what I should and should not present on the day of my hearing. Everything worked out and I was able to substantiate my employment with the DUA. Thank you, Jill!
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Posted by Janet | March 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
You won't find anyone better.
I have a legal background, but not in the area of unemployment law, so I did some research to find someone who did. Jill was hands down my first choice because she had first hand experience not only in the area of law I needed, but also directly working with the specific governmental body that deals with unemployment benefits. Both she, and her assistant, Louise, run an efficient and professional practice. They call you back promptly and answer your questions fully. Jill thoroughly reviewed all my correspondence, and listened to my concerns. She suggested strategies that ultimately won my case. I was extremely happy, not only to have her guidance prior to my hearing, but also during my hearing. I could not be more pleased with Jill, nor the outcome of my case.
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Posted by anonymous | March 2, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Extremely responsive and helpful
I contacted Jill with an urgent issue related to state employment benefits, and her office responded promptly. She was informative and reassuring, and guided me through a complex and overwhelming process. With her help, I was able to resolve my issue.
Posted by Mike | February 27, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Employment/Unemployment Expert
I was caught up in a frustrating PUA benefit dispute for over a year. I needed assistance from a lawyer with specific employment law expertise. I found Attorney Jill Havens through her website online. Jill is an excellent employment and labor attorney who is the reason I was successful in resolving my dispute. She is extremely knowledgeable of the state unemployment system, its processes and the governing laws. She clearly spelled out the relevant employment law to me, my potential legal remedies and her recommended best outcome approach for me to take. Jill's direct and concise counsel enabled me to successfully appeal and reverse two separate prior determinations against me. I appreciated her candor and straightforwardness. As important was her positive feedback, confidence and optimism for the likelihood of a favorable outcome. I highly recommend Jill Havens as the only one to go to for employment and labor law matters.
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Posted by Miguel | February 25, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Senior Counsel
I had an unemployment insurance issue and a good friend of mine who is also a great labor lawyer here in MA, advised me to contact Jill Havens as the expert in employee benefits and unemployment matters. That was the best referral my friend could have ever given me. My experience working with Jill was beyond expectations. She is a great lawyer and has the ability to understand her client's needs and concerns, and also provides the best legal advice that is appropriate to the case. She is fully committed to her clients. Her thorough legal analysis and expertise were critical for me to win the case. If someone needs a good employment lawyer, Jill is the right lawyer to go to.
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Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 350-350 per hour
  • Contingency 33%-40%
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.1 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Workplace Justice Law Group LLC
  • 2022 - Present
  • Adjunct Professor
  • Northeastern University School Of Law
  • 2021 - 2021
  • Principal Attorney
  • Law Office of Jill Havens
  • 2012 - 2022
  • Review Examiner/Staff Attorney
  • Mass Department of Unemployment Board of Review
  • 2011 - 2012
  • Business Agent
  • SEIU Local 1199
  • 2009 - 2011
View all work experience

Education

  • Northeastern University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2009
  • Randolph-Macon Woman's College
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1989
  • University of Massachusetts, Amherst
  • MA/Ph.D. course work
  • N/A

Legal Cases

  • Debra Davidowicz v. 4M Fruit Distributors Inc.
  • $888,036 jury verdict in favor Plaintiff, Debra Davidowicz

Associations

  • Massachusetts Employment Lawyers Association
  • Executive Board Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • National Lawyers Guild
  • 2007 - 2016

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2019
  • Super Lawyer - Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2018

Speaking Engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (6)
Given (1)
Endorse Jill
Andrea Charna Kramer headshot
Andrea Kramer
Employment and labor Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jill is my go-to person for unemployment law when clients need referrals or need some help on unemployment law. Recently a client I referred used Jill's services, and the client was thrilled. And always I get accurate, useful information from her. Jill is the best!"
J.W. Londergan headshot
J.W. Londergan
Discrimination Attorney | Oct 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I wholeheartedly endorse Attorney Havens! I am an attorney myself, and whenever I have employment law issues and questions - be it for wage and hour, overtime pay, discrimination, sexual harassment, unemployment, severance agreements and the like - Jill is my go to attorney."
Rachel Benedict headshot
Rachel Benedict
Employment and labor Attorney | Jun 16
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. We worked together at the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development Board of Review. She is smart, unflappable and a zealous advocate, someone you definitely want on your side."
Matthew P. Poppel headshot
Matthew Poppel
Employment and labor Attorney | Nov 09
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Time and again, Jill Havens has provided critical advice regarding the unemployment aspects of resolving a matter. She responds immediately and provides the info one needs to know before closing the deal. Top notch."
Stefanie Fisher headshot
Stefanie Fisher
Employment and labor Attorney | Jul 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. We have called her for expert advice when our clients encounter employment issues. She has always given thoughtful and helpful advice. I trust that she would be as excellent to her own clients as she has been to ours."
Corine K. Claxton headshot
Corine Claxton
Employment and labor Attorney | Jul 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Attorney Havens. Recently I consulted with her regarding an employment law related issue. She was able to provide me with valuable information."
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Boston Employment and labor Lawyer Jill Havens
Jill Havens
Employment and labor Attorney
Boston, MA
Licensed for 13 years
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