Jeffrey P. Ayres

Partner
Jeffrey P. Ayres

Jeff Ayres represents clients facing complex civil litigation, especially disputes and claims involving labor and employment law, civil rights cases, and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). Jeff also advises on state torts, contract matters, and discrimination issues. He represents clients across a range of industries, including technology, education, healthcare, banking, and financial services, among others.  

Jeff's success is built not only on his record of victories but on his dedication to his clients' interests. His excellent rapport with clients stems from his ability to translate complex legal points into plain English appropriate to each client's needs. Jeff served as chair of Venable’s Ethics Committee for more than 30 years, until October 2024.

Experience

Representative Clients

  • The Episcopal Diocese of Maryland

Insights

Credentials
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Education

  • J.D. magna cum laude George Washington University Law School 1977
    • Order of the Coif
  • B.A. cum laude Harvard College 1974

Bar Admissions

  • Maryland
  • District of Columbia

Court Admissions

  • U.S. Supreme Court
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit

Professional Memberships and Activities

  • Maryland Attorney Grievance Commission
    • Vice chair, 2023 – present
    • Commissioner, 2009 – 2023
  • Past chair, Maryland State Bar Association, Labor and Employment Section

Recognition
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  • Super Lawyers, Labor and Employment, Maryland, 2008 – 2018, 2020
  • The Best Lawyers in America
    • Lawyer of the Year, Labor Law – Management, 2022
    • Lawyer of the Year, Employment Law – Management, Baltimore, 2021
    • Employment Law – Management, 2007 – 2021, 2023 – 2025
    • Labor Law – Management, 2007 – 2021, 2023 – 2025
    • Litigation – Labor and Employment, 2007 – 2021, 2023 – 2025
  • Chambers USA, Labor and Employment, Maryland, 2003 – 2024
  • The American Lawyer, Top Rated Lawyer, Appellate Law, 2013
  • Corporate Counsel, Top Rated Lawyer, Appellate Law, 2013
  • Martindale-Hubbell, AV® Peer Review Rated
  • Who's Who Legal, Leading Practitioner, Management Labor and Employment

Community
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Volunteerism

  • Chair, Board of Trustees, Claggett Camp and Conference Center