John M. Polson

John M. Polson serves as Chairman and Managing Partner of Fisher Phillips, guiding the firm’s Management Committee and shaping its overall strategic direction.

His practice covers compliance, litigation, contracts, mergers and acquisitions, and startup representation. He is widely recognized for his work with Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs), staffing companies, and businesses in the gig economy.

John earned his Juris Doctor following strong academic training that prepared him for a distinguished career in labor and employment law. His expertise and achievements have been recognized repeatedly, with The Best Lawyers in America honoring him since 2008. He was also named “Lawyer of the Year” in Employment Law – Management for Orange County in 2021, 2022, and 2024, reflecting his reputation for excellence.

John has consistently represented PEO and staffing clients in numerous litigation and appellate matters throughout his career. He has handled cases ranging from unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation to contractual conflicts and third-party employment claims. He also provides extensive counseling on joint employer and co-employer issues, helping clients navigate evolving laws and workplace complexities.

In addition to client representation, John has played influential roles in industry organizations. He is a past Chair of the Legal Advisory Council of the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations (NAPEO) and has served as a Professional Advisory Director for the Employer Services Assurance Corporation.

John M. Polson has also shared his knowledge as an Instructor in the University of California Irvine Human Resources Certificate Program. With his experience and leadership, John continues to guide employers toward innovative strategies that align with compliance, protect their operations, and strengthen workforce management.

Law Office Affiliations

• Chairman & Managing Partner, Fisher & Phillips LLP
• Member, Board of Directors, National Association of Professional Employer Organizations (NAPEO)
• Member, American Staffing Association
• Former Director, Employer Services Assurance Corporation
• Founding Sponsor, Alliance for PEO Electronic Compliance
• Member, Society of Human Resources Management
• Member, Orange County Bar Association

Licensed State

• California

Education

• Loyola Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of South Florida
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges