Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C. (Ogletree Deakins), one of the largest labor and employment law firms representing management, is pleased to announce that esteemed employment lawyer Shafeeqa Watkins Giarratani has joined the firm as the co-managing shareholder of the Austin office. Giarratani joins Ogletree Deakins from Norton Rose Fulbright, where she led that firm’s Austin-based employment group and federal contractor practice. Giarratani has a track record of achieving favorable results for clients in litigating employment claims in state and federal courts and administrative tribunals. She brings a wealth of experience in employment law counseling, including pay equity, whistleblower claims, and federal contractor/affirmative action compliance.

“Shafeeqa is an excellent employment litigator, counselor, and strategist with a proven ability to successfully resolve complex legal issues and achieve results aligned with clients’ business objectives,” said Bruce Griggs, co-managing shareholder of Ogletree Deakins’ Austin office. “She embodies the qualities found in our Client Pledge, and we are excited to add such a dedicated and talented advocate to our Austin-based team.”

Giarratani has been recognized locally, nationally, and internationally as a skilled advocate for her clients. Giarratani is listed in The Best Lawyers in America, Chambers USA, and Texas Super Lawyers – Rising Stars and has been featured in Bloomberg BNA for her commitment to her clients. In 2016, Law360 recognized Giarratani as a Rising Star, one of only seven employment lawyers in the country to receive such a distinction. Giarratani has also been recognized internationally by Euromoney PLC as a LMG Rising Star.

Giarratani, an Austin native, is very involved in the local community and serves as a board member for Any Baby Can and Austin United Way. She earned her J.D. from Harvard Law School and her B.A. from Harvard University, both with honors.

ogletree.com