Recognized in Ones to Watch since 2025 
John D. Drdek is a Partner in the Firm’s San Diego office and a member of both the Litigation and Labor & Employment Groups. His practice focuses on representing companies and employers in complex litigation, including wage-and-hour class and representative actions, Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) claims, and multi-million dollar employment and contract disputes. John has successfully defended clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies across a range of industries.
John is experienced in all phases of litigation, including developing case strategy, managing high-volume e-discovery, taking and defending depositions, arguing dispositive motions, and preparing cases for trial. John also advises employers on risk mitigation, compliance, and pre-litigation resolution of workplace disputes.
John brings nearly two decades of distinct professional leadership and executive experience to his litigation practice. Prior to graduating from Stanford Law School, he spent ten years as a screenwriter and producer in the entertainment industry, navigating complex commercial interests, high-stakes negotiations, and creative problem-solving.
Additionally, John serves as a Commander (O-5) and Public Affairs Officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve. His strategic communications and crisis-management capabilities are backed by extensive operational experience, including a deployment to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, with Special Operations Joint Task Force. This deep background in high-pressure leadership directly informs his tactical approach to complex corporate disputes and labor management.
