John J. McGivney
From the courtroom to the boardroom, John has spent his career navigating complex legal and business challenges with clarity, precision, and a deep understanding of how broader societal forces shape outcomes.
With decades of experience as a trial and appellate litigator—and now as Managing Partner of Rubin and Rudman—John brings a unique combination of legal insight and strategic leadership to his work with clients and colleagues.
John’s litigation background includes nearly 40 trials in state and federal courts, more than 25 appellate matters—including before the US Supreme Court—and thousands of resolved cases spanning insurance, commercial, and regulatory disputes. He has served as both advocate and arbitrator, and is a certified mediator. His reputation as a thoughtful and incisive advisor is especially valued by insurers, whom he counsels on complex coverage and extracontractual matters. As the insurance industry continues to face increased scrutiny and evolving public expectations, John’s ability to contextualize legal risk and guide strategy has become central to his practice.
Over the years, John has represented clients in high-stakes matters involving the US Department of Defense, Department of Justice, Environmental Protection Agency, and the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office. He also served as a Special Assistant Attorney General for the Commonwealth.
As Managing Partner and a member of the firm’s Executive Committee, John leads Rubin Rudman’s strategic planning and growth. During his tenure, the firm has significantly expanded its attorney ranks, revenue, and community involvement, while deepening its commitment to philanthropy and diversity initiatives. In his legal and leadership roles, John is known for being progressive, collaborative, and steadfastly focused on helping clients and colleagues succeed.
Successful Arbitration and Appellate Win in Co-Owner Dispute
Recovered $6 million on behalf of a business owner in a breach of fiduciary duty claim against a co-owner. The matter was initially resolved through arbitration and subsequently affirmed in Massachusetts Superior Court. The Massachusetts Appeals Court upheld the judgment in favor of John’s client.
$140 Million Recovery in Securities and Fiduciary Duty Dispute
Secured a $140 million settlement for three investors in a closely held company engaged in interstate retail sales. The claims involved complex securities litigation and allegations of breach of fiduciary duty.
Charitable Trust Recovers in Professional Negligence Case
Recovered over $4 million on behalf of a charitable trust in a negligence action brought against the trust’s tax advisors.
Securities Litigation Resolution for Individual Investors
Recovered more than $1.45 million for two clients in a dispute involving securities fraud and misrepresentation.
Insurance Coverage Litigation
Eight-Figure Settlement in Insurer v. Insurer Coverage Dispute
Recovered over $10 million in a coverage action brought by one liability insurer against another, involving contested obligations under complex insurance policies.
Education
- JD, cum laude, Boston College Law School, 1981
- BA, magna cum laude, Boston College, 1978
Bar Admissions
- Massachusetts
- US District Court, Massachusetts, Connecticut
- US Court of Appeals, First Circuit
- US Supreme Court
Experience recognized
- Best Lawyers in America, Insurance Law and Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions – Defendants, 2008-2026
- Boston Magazine’s Top Lawyers, Civil Law Litigation & Insurance, 2022-2025
- Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly, Hall of Fame, 2024
- Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly, Top 20 Managing Partners, 2024
- Best Lawyers in America, Lawyer of the Year (Boston), Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions – Defendants, 2022
- Massachusetts Super Lawyers, 2004, 2016–2020
- Best Lawyers in America, Insurance Law and Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions – Defendants, 2008-2025
- Boston Magazine’s Top Lawyers, Civil Law Litigation, 2022-2024
Experience in practice
- Meet the Managing Partner, Boston Bar Association (March 2025)
- Boston Bar Association
- Association for Conflict Resolution
- Massachusetts Defense Lawyers Association, Former Director
- Massachusetts Academy of Trial Attorneys
- Claims and Litigation Management Alliance