John R. Branson

John R. Branson is Of Counsel at Baker Donelson’s Memphis office and a trusted member of the firm’s Litigation, Intellectual Property, and Business and Corporate Groups. With decades of experience, John represents clients in resolving disputes through litigation and alternative means such as arbitration and mediation. He is known for his broad practice, handling complex cases in areas ranging from family law and business litigation to health care, intellectual property, corporate governance, and class actions. Clients appreciate his ability to see every angle of a dispute and deliver strategic, cost-effective solutions.

John earned his J.D. from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 1984, where he served as Research Editor and Managing Editor of the Mississippi Law Journal and chaired the Law School Election Commission. He also holds a B.B.A. in Marketing from the University of Mississippi, graduating in 1981. His strong academic foundation supports his work across many challenging areas of law.

Throughout his career, John has tried numerous jury and non-jury cases, including serving as lead counsel in a month-long class action jury trial and securing multi-million-dollar settlements. He has handled appeals before the Tennessee Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court of Tennessee, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. His experience includes representing clients in arbitrations and mediations before AAA, NASD, and MSRB. He has even served as a mediator himself and once as a juror, giving him a unique view from every side of the courtroom.

John R. Branson is licensed in Tennessee and Mississippi and has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America® and Super Lawyers for his work in health care and IP litigation. Known for his thoughtful approach, John remains dedicated to helping clients resolve disputes efficiently while protecting their best interests.

Law Office Affiliations

• Of Counsel, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC
• Member, Memphis Bar Foundation
• Chairman, Tennessee Bar Association, General, Solo & Small Firm Section (1997 – 1998)
• Chairman, Memphis Bar Association, Continuing Legal Education Committee (1997)
• Volunteer Litigator, Community Legal Services
• Member, Lawyers’ Journal Club

Licensed State

• Tennessee
• Mississippi

Education

• University of Mississippi Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Mississippi
  BBA in Marketing

Awards & Badges