Patrick O'Hara

Patrick O’Hara’s path to personal injury law began with a love for advocacy, justice, and literature — from "To Kill a Mockingbird" to real courtroom trials.

In Episode 38 of "Celebrating Justice," the founder of OHARA Law Firm reflects on how formative experiences — from clerking at the Lanier Law Firm to leading high-stakes mesothelioma trials —shaped a deep conviction: always put the client first.

Mark Lanier hired Patrick straight out of Pepperdine, launching a career that would span three bar exams and numerous jurisdictions. But what stands out most is Patrick’s steady moral compass. “The Golden Rule… is really one of the foundations of my beliefs,” he shares. That ethic extends far beyond the courtroom —like taking in four children after a colleague’s cancer diagnosis, or waiving fees when insurance falls short for an injured child.

Patrick also recounts powerful stories: a dying client who stood up to a judge to demand justice, and a custody case that required proving murder in a family courtroom. Through it all, his stance is clear — clients deserve the full truth and agency, even if it’s not best for the firm.

It’s that blend of intellect, integrity, and empathy that defines both his practice and this conversation.

Key Takeaways

• The Golden Rule guides every decision, including waiving fees when justice for children outweighs financial return.
• Early exposure to courtroom dynamics and advocacy can spark a lifelong commitment to justice.
• Seeking autonomy and work-life balance often leads professionals to forge their own path.
• Gaining exposure and experience can inform a deeper understanding of race, identity, and justice.
• Challenging flawed systems sometimes requires creative legal approaches and persistence across multiple venues.

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