James B. Cox
Jim is a trusted advocate for colleges, universities, and employers navigating complex issues at the intersection of higher education, employment law, and labor relations.
As a practice area leader, Jim brings decades of experience advising institutional clients on matters ranging from collective bargaining and workplace investigations to high-stakes litigation and regulatory compliance.
Known for his practical guidance and deep understanding of the legal landscape governing the workplace, Jim regularly represents employers in labor negotiations, arbitration, and employment disputes. He has successfully defended clients before state and federal courts, as well as agencies including the NLRB, EEOC, and the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination.
Jim’s work includes drafting and negotiating employment agreements, developing compliant workplace policies, and counseling on union relations across a broad spectrum of industries—from higher education and healthcare to public safety and manufacturing. Whether training leadership teams on anti-discrimination laws or advising on the enforceability of restrictive covenants, Jim partners closely with clients to help them anticipate risk, resolve conflict, and strengthen their institutional resilience.
Advised Employers on Employment Agreements and Discrimination Compliance
Counseled public and private sector employers across industries on workplace compliance, including conducting anti-discrimination training for management teams and drafting employment and severance agreements. Provided strategic guidance on the enforceability of non-competition and non-solicitation provisions.
Arbitrated Labor Grievances Across Sectors
Successfully represented employers in grievance arbitration proceedings involving faculty, industrial workers, truck drivers, and public safety personnel, including police and firefighters.
Litigated Landmark Workplace and Student Discrimination Cases
Litigated cases in state and federal courts as well as administrative agencies, including significant matters involving student discrimination claims, the limits of administrative agency authority, and the scope of harassment protections in the workplace.
Negotiated Collective Bargaining Agreements in Education, Healthcare, and Public Safety
Advised employers on labor negotiations and the ongoing administration of collective bargaining agreements with unions representing faculty, higher education staff, healthcare workers, and public sector employees.
Developed Legally Compliant Workplace Policies and Practices
Audited employer practices and authored workplace policy manuals to ensure adherence to evolving state and federal employment laws and regulatory requirements.
Represented Clients Before Courts and Administrative Agencies
Appeared on behalf of clients before Massachusetts trial and appellate courts, the U.S. District Court, the First Circuit Court of Appeals, and agencies including the NLRB, EEOC, MCAD, and the Massachusetts Department of Labor Relations.
Education
- JD, Boston University School of Law, 1980
- MBA, Babson College, 1976
- BA, Boston University, 1975
Bar Admissions
- Massachusetts
Experience recognized
- Boston Magazine's Top Lawyers, Education Law, 2022
- Supervisor of Labor Relations for The City of Boston, Former Assistant Corporation Counsel