Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2015 
John Stephens has practiced as a business trial lawyer in Orange County for more than 34 years. His litigation practice includes matters involving trade secrets, trademarks, real estate, fraud, breach of contract, shareholder and partnership disputes, business dissolution, and a broad range of complex business issues.
John has represented Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, and individuals in commercial disputes. He has tried numerous matters to judgment, including jury trials, bench trials, and arbitration hearings.
Known for his practical approach to negotiation and mediation, John works to identify the core issues early and pursue efficient resolutions when possible. His approach often helps clients avoid unnecessary litigation costs while still protecting their business interests.
John has been recognized by Southern California Super Lawyers and The Best Lawyers in America®. He is also an active connector in the Orange County business community and has served as a Group Leader with ProVisors, a national professional organization, since 2006.
In addition to his legal practice, John has a long record of public service. He has served as Mayor of Costa Mesa, California, since March 2021, and previously served as a Costa Mesa City Councilmember from 2016 to 2020. In November 2023, he was elected by his fellow mayors to serve as a director of the Orange County Transit Authority. He has also served as a Costa Mesa Planning Commissioner and as a director of Travel Costa Mesa and the Transportation Corridor Agency, also known as the Toll Roads.
John earned his law degree from UC Davis Law School and his B.S. in Business Administration from Cal Poly Pomona. Before starting his own firm in 1998, he practiced for nine years in the Orange County office of Paul Hastings, an international law firm.
