John C. "Jack" Murrett, Jr.

I’m John C. “Jack” Murrett, Jr., a personal injury attorney based in Buffalo with The Barnes Firm. What sets my practice apart is my unique perspective from having previously served as a senior trial attorney for a Fortune 500 property and casualty insurance company. This experience gave me intimate insight into how the insurance industry evaluates and resolves liability claims—knowledge that becomes invaluable when preparing and advocating for my clients’ cases.

In addition to my courtroom experience, I’ve been selected to lecture judges attending the New York State Magistrate’s training course and provide continuing legal education to fellow attorneys through the Erie County Bar Association’s Negligence Committee. These opportunities reflect my reputation as a leader in civil trials and legal jurisprudence in Western New York.

I deeply believe that legal representation should be grounded in compassion and clear communication. At every step—from intake to resolution—I strive to be more than just your lawyer. I aim to be your guide and protector throughout what can be an overwhelming process. At The Barnes Firm, our collaborative, team-based approach ensures clients benefit from both personalized attention and the strength of seasoned attorneys working together for maximum results.

How long will my case take in Buffalo?

The timeline depends on many factors, including the extent of your medical treatment and whether the case resolves through settlement or proceeds to trial in Erie County or surrounding courts. Some cases resolve in just a few months, while others may take longer. My priority is always to move your case forward efficiently while still working to achieve the best possible result.

How much will it cost to hire The Barnes Firm?

You pay nothing upfront. At The Barnes Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no attorney’s fees unless we win your case. This ensures every client has access to strong legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in New York?

In most personal injury cases in New York, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the accident. However, there are exceptions. For example, if your claim is against a city, county, or other government entity in Western New York, you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days, and the lawsuit itself must be started within a shorter time frame. Because these deadlines are strict, it’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible after an accident so we can protect your rights and make sure no deadlines are missed.

One of the most challenging aspects of practicing personal injury law is dealing with the tactics insurance companies use to avoid paying fair compensation. Because of my background as a senior trial attorney for a Fortune 500 insurance company, I’ve seen firsthand how insurers evaluate claims, minimize injuries, and try to pressure accident victims into settling for less than they deserve.

In Western New York, these cases often involve complex issues — from serious car crashes on the I-90 or I-290, to slip-and-fall injuries caused by winter weather conditions, to workplace and construction accidents. Each case requires a careful investigation, strong preparation, and the ability to clearly explain complicated medical and legal issues to a jury.

What makes this work meaningful, though, is overcoming those challenges. I take pride in using my knowledge of the insurance industry to level the playing field for my clients, ensuring they have the strongest possible case and the best chance at getting the justice they deserve.

What I’d like clients to know is that when you come to me, you’re not just hiring an attorney — you’re getting an advocate who understands how the insurance companies work and how to fight back. Having grown up and practiced here in Buffalo, I know the challenges people in Western New York face after a serious accident, from missed time at work to mounting medical bills.

My promise is to guide clients through the process with compassion, open communication, and strong advocacy every step of the way. At The Barnes Firm, we have the resources and experience to take on even the most complex cases, but we never lose sight of the individual. Every client matters, and I’m proud to stand up for the people of this community when they need it most.