About
BJ Brinkerhoff is a skilled attorney with extensive experience in business law and litigation. He represents individuals, startups, closely held companies, and multinational corporations across a wide range of legal matters. BJ focuses his practice on business disputes, including employment issues like restrictive covenants and trade secrets, as well as shareholder claims, officer and director liability, and general business conflicts. He also handles product liability, wrongful death and injury defense, restaurant and retail liability, civil rights, contract disputes, insurance issues, and appeals.
BJ earned his B.A. in Political Science and U.S. History from Vanderbilt University in 2000 and his J.D. from Indiana University, Maurer School of Law in 2003.
BJ is deeply involved in Indiana’s startup and entrepreneurial community. He advises business owners on real estate issues, franchising, intellectual property, founder disputes, and strategies to reduce legal risk. He brings a calm, strategic approach to each case, helping clients avoid pitfalls and resolve disputes efficiently.
BJ’s litigation experience spans all phases of the legal process—from early investigations and dispute resolution to trials and appeals. BJ understands the challenges and costs of litigation and works closely with clients to reduce risk while maximizing outcomes. He collaborates with in-house counsel, insurers, and business leaders to tailor legal strategies that serve long-term goals.
BJ Brinkerhoff’s work has earned him repeated recognition from Super Lawyers and The Best Lawyers in America©. His professional involvement includes leadership roles with the Indianapolis Bar Foundation and Defense Trial Counsel of Indiana. He also gives back through teaching at the IU McKinney School of Law and serving on multiple civic and nonprofit boards.
Whether guiding a startup through growth or defending a company in court, BJ delivers trusted legal counsel rooted in deep industry knowledge and a commitment to client success.
Law Office Affiliations
- Attorney, Jeselskis Brinkerhoff and Joseph, LLC
- Board Member, Indianapolis Bar Foundation
- Member, Indianapolis Bar Association
- Board Member, Defense Trial Counsel of Indiana
- Member, Indiana State Bar Association
Licensed State
- Indiana
Education
- Indiana University, Maurer School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - Vanderbilt University
BA in Political Science and U.S. History
Awards & Badges




- Appeals
- Contracts and agreements
- Franchising
- Landlord or tenant
- Licensing
- Litigation
- Mergers and acquisitions
- Wrongful death