John M. O’Brien
John O’Brien established his own law firm in 1996, which has since evolved into what is known today as O’Brien & Zehnder. Throughout his career, he has built a distinguished reputation as a respected trial attorney, securing numerous multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements for victims of serious injuries and wrongful death.
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Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
A Career Dedicated
to Justice
Since establishing his own law firm in Elk Grove, California, in 1996, which has since evolved into O’Brien & Zehnder, John O’Brien has dedicated his practice to advocating for individuals who have suffered serious or catastrophic injuries or lost loved ones due to the negligence of others. He established the firm with a commitment to providing compassionate, effective, and results-driven representation to individuals and families during some of the most difficult times in their lives.
Before founding the firm, John spent several years representing defendants in complex litigation matters. This experience provides him with valuable insight into how insurance companies and defense attorneys evaluate and defend personal injury claims. He draws on this knowledge to anticipate opposing strategies and develop thoughtful, creative, and effective approaches tailored to each client's case.
Recognized throughout California's legal community for his aggressive advocacy, integrity, and dedication to his clients, John has earned a reputation as a respected and effective trial attorney. His commitment to achieving meaningful results has led to numerous multimillion-dollar jury verdicts and settlements across a wide range of personal injury cases.
Beyond the courtroom, John is committed to the community he has served for decades. As the founder of an Elk Grove-based law firm, he values the relationships he has built throughout the Sacramento region and believes in giving back to the community. His dedication to making a difference extends beyond representing his clients to supporting the people and community around him.
“We pride ourselves in seeking justice for every client who has been injured as a result of another’s negligent act. We don’t rest until each and every client has been fully compensated for their injuries.
— JOHN M. O’BRIEN

Education
University of the Pacific
B.A., with honors, magna cum laude
Political Science and Economics
1987
University of Southern California
School of Law
J.D., with honors
1990
Professional Memberships
- American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA)
- American Association for Justice (AAJ)
- Consumer Attorneys of California (CAOC)
- Capitol City Trial Lawyers Association (CCTLA)
- Sacramento County Bar Association
Admissions
- California State Bar
- U.S. District Court,
Northern District of California - U.S. District Court,
Eastern District of California - U.S. Court of Appeals,
Ninth Circuit
Career Journey
- 1987
University of the Pacific
Graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree with Honors in Political Science and Economics.
- 1990
University of Southern California
Earned his Juris Doctor with Honors.
- 1990–1996
Brobeck, Phleger & Harrison
Worked as an associate, gaining valuable experience representing defendants in complex litigation matters.
- 1996–Present
O’Brien & Zehnder
Established his own law firm in 1996, laying the foundation for what is now O’Brien & Zehnder, with a focus on representing individuals who have suffered serious injuries due to negligence.


John O’Brien Featured in Plaintiff Magazine
In its September 2026 issue, Plaintiff Magazine featured John O’Brien in an attorney profile highlighting his more than three decades of experience in personal injury law.
The interview explores John’s journey from defense litigation to representing injured individuals, his notable trial results, and his commitment to taking on meaningful cases that he is prepared to bring to trial.
READ THE ARTICLE →Get the Experience You Need
on Your Side
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured, contact John O’Brien and the team at O’Brien & Zehnder for a free consultation.
FREE CONSULTATION →