Ronald J. Nessim

Ronald J. Nessim is a name partner at Bird Marella and one of the nation’s most respected trial lawyers in the fields of commercial litigation, media and entertainment law, and white collar criminal defense. With more than 40 years of experience, he has served as lead counsel in over fifty federal and state trials and arbitrations, as well as numerous landmark appeals, including before the United States Supreme Court. Clients and peers recognize his detailed case preparation, strategic foresight, and unwavering commitment to client success.

Mr. Nessim received his Juris Doctor, cum laude, from the University of Michigan Law School in 1980. He earned his A.B., with distinction, from Stanford University in 1977 and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. This distinguished academic background provided the foundation for his analytical skills and legal acumen.

In his broad litigation practice, Mr. Nessim represents clients in high-value breach-of-contract, partnership, real estate, employment, and business-tort cases across diverse industries. In the entertainment sector, he frequently advocates for major talent and creatives in profit participation and partnership disputes, and he is often called upon in high-profile matters involving major studios and production companies.

Mr. Nessim’s criminal defense work includes white-collar cases such as health care fraud, tax fraud, and qui tam matters, as well as parallel civil and criminal proceedings. He has successfully persuaded prosecutors to drop charges in numerous complex investigations.

Chambers USA has recognized Ronald J. Nessim’s excellence, Best Lawyers in America®, and The Hollywood Reporter, which named him a “Legal Legend.” He also serves as an arbitrator for the American Arbitration Association and actively supports legal education and community organizations, helping clients navigate their most critical legal challenges.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Bird, Marella, Rhow, Lincenberg, Drooks, & Nessim, LLP
• Member, State Bar of California
• Member, American Arbitration Association
• Member, United States District Court Central District of California (2012-2016)

Licensed State

• California

Education

• University of Michigan Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Stanford University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)
  

Awards & Badges