John Stevens Berry Sr.

John Stevens Berry Sr. is the founding attorney of Berry Law and one of the most respected figures in American criminal defense. With a career that spans over five decades, John has made his mark in courtrooms across 24 states and two foreign countries. A skilled litigator, he is known for his fearless approach to law, especially in military and criminal defense cases. Among his most notable cases is the high-profile “Green Beret Affair,” a defining moment in U.S. military legal history.

John earned his J.D. from Northwestern University School of Law. He also holds a B.A. in English from Stanford University. He completed additional legal and military training at the University of Paris Sorbonne, the Infantry Officers School, and the U.S. Army JAG School.

Before founding Berry Law in 1965, John served as a JAG officer in Vietnam, where he became chief defense counsel for the country’s largest general court jurisdiction. His leadership in that role earned him national attention and a Bronze Star, the Vietnamese Medal of Honor (Gold), and the Cross of Gallantry (with Palm).

In civilian practice, John handled high-stakes cases, including international drug defense and constitutional law. He received the FBI Award for Service in the Public Interest for his work training attorneys in cross-examination and has also been recognized for his extensive pro bono service.

John has served as president of the Nebraska Criminal Defense Attorneys Association and the Robert Van Pelt Inns of Court. He was honored with his own state holiday, John Stevens Berry Day, which was declared by the Governor of Nebraska in 1997.

John Stevens Berry Sr., an accomplished author, has written several books, including Those Gallant Men: On Trial in Vietnam and The Twelfth Victim. His work continues to shape legal thought and inspire attorneys across the country. Today, as ‘Of Counsel’ at Berry Law, John remains a vital force in advancing justice for both veterans and civilians.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, Berry Law
• Member, Nebraska State Bar Association
• Fellow, American Board of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, Nebraska Association of Trial Attorney
• Member, American Association for Justice
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
• Member, National Organization of Veterans’ Advocates
• Member, U.S. District Court of Nebraska
• Member, U.S. District Court of South Dakota
• Member, U.S.Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces
• Member, U.S. Court of Appeals 8th Circuit
• Member, U.S. Supreme Court
• Member, U.S. Tax Court
• Member, U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals

Licensed State

• Nebraska

Education

• Northwestern University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Stanford University
  BA in English

Awards & Badges