Christopher J. O'Brien
also known as Chris O'Brien
About Christopher
Biography
With an illustrious career spanning over three decades, Chris O'Brien stands as a distinguished advocate committed to championing the cause of personal injury victims in Western New York. As a founding partner of O'Brien & Ford, PC, Chris, alongside John Ford, has left an indelible mark by effectively settling or trying more than 25 million- or multi-million dollar cases, earning widespread acclaim for their unwavering commitment to justice.
Beyond his courtroom prowess, Chris is a nationally recognized figure, not just as a seasoned Buffalo personal injury lawyer but also as an educator, generously sharing his trial skills across the United States and Canada. His impact is underscored by his status as a Diplomate of the National College of Advocacy, a 25-year member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and recognition on Buffalo Business First's prestigious list of Western New York’s Top Ten Lawyers.
In addition to his legal achievements, Chris finds fulfillment in community involvement and family life. He calls Amherst home, where he resides with his wife and children, embodying a harmonious blend of professional excellence and personal commitment. His responsibilities extend beyond legal matters to include the care of Moose, a Bernedoodle, reflecting his hands-on approach to both professional and personal spheres.
With an impressive 33-year tenure in Personal Injury Law, Chris holds accolades such as a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating, membership in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and an "AV – Preeminent" recognition by Martindale-Hubbell. His legal journey commenced at Washington & Lee Law School in Lexington, Virginia, where he graduated in 1988.
Connect with Buffalo personal injury attorney Chris O’Brien through Linkedin, Avvo, Justia, or Super Lawyers. For expert legal guidance and a compassionate advocate, contact Chris at. Trust O'Brien & Ford, PC. for personalized attention and a track record of excellence in personal injury law.
Practice Areas
4
Practice Areas
37 years | 600 cases
37 years | 250 cases
37 years | 100 cases
Fees and Rates
Cost
33%-33%
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in New York for 37 years
State: New York
Acquired: 1989
No misconduct found
Location
O'Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers
4549 Main Street, Suite 201, Buffalo, NY, 14226
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Christopher J. O'Brien's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
41 Client Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 15 reviews | Responsiveness
Posted by TXLineman | September 24, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Personal Injury
Roger That TEXAS
Let me start by saying that Chris and his Team are top notch professionals. While visiting the Buffalo Niagara area I was involved in a life altering accident. After hours of research I contacted and hired Chris. Chris and his Team kept me informed, were there when I needed them , and by far exceed...
Posted by Mary | January 08, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Personal Injury
Fought for me
Almost 6 years ago I was in an awful accident that changed everything. A family member referred me to Chris and for 5 years this man fought for me. He was compassionate, honest, and straightforward. He kept me informed and up to date with the smallest of details. Any time I had a question he was the...
Posted by Lindsay | March 08, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Personal Injury
Best lawyer ever!
I was hurt in a car crash. Chris met with me two days later and handled my case with his staff all the way to jury selection. He told me we had to go that far to make sure GEICO paid what they owed. The insurance company finally gave me the money I deserved after stalling and playing games. Chris and...
Posted by Deanna | October 27, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes
Chris helped when I needed help.
After months of them doing hard work and answering our questions and being available, Chris got the result that we deserved. We first went to Chris after another lawyer told us we had no case. Chris told us that our case would be difficult but that he believed it was worth pursuing. I always felt lik...
Posted by William | July 28, 2015 | Personal Injury
Glad I was referred by another lawyer.
In August of 2011, I was in a head on collision with a drunken driver. At which time, I received multiple injuries to my body. As the TV bombards you with advertisements for personal injury lawyers, I did not know what avenue to take. I consulted my personal lawyer and he suggested I contact a Chris ...
Christopher J. O'Brien's Lawyer Endorsements
"Chris is an outstanding trial lawyer. He is also giving of his time to other attorneys at seminars and with mock trial teams. If you have been injured, Chris will make sure your case is in good hands. I endorse this lawyer."
"Having practiced in the same community and for the common cause of injured citizens for more than 20 years, I can say that Chris O'Brien represents his clients with the same compassion, skill, experience, zeal and dedication with which I seek to represent my clients. If your case is with Chris, your case is in good hands. And in the process, you will probably come to consider Chris O'Brien a friend, as I do."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Chris is an outstanding advocate and a great mentor and teacher. If I had family in Buffalo and they needed an attorney, Chris would be my guy."
"I have worked with Chris at both the law school and within the legal community. Aside from being a very good lawyer, Chris is compassionate and puts forward such energy toward helping his clients and students."
"I endorse Chris. We have had numerous cases together and he has always represented his clients aggressively and fought for their interests."
"I endorse Chris. He is very knowledgeable in the law and cares about his clients and ensuring they receive the best legal outcome."
"Chris is consummate professional who approaches a case not just from a legal perspective, but from a human perspective."
"I endorse this lawyer. Highest degree of professionalism. Will refer any matters in Buffalo to Chris O'Brien."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Chris has successfully handled many personal cases over his career. He truly cares about his clients and is an excellent choice if you are seeking a personal injury attorney."
"I endorse Christopher. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Chris was an adjunct professor while I was in law school. His skills and ethics are beyond reproach."
"I endorse this lawyer public education efforts against drunk drivers"
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Chris O'Brien is truly a gifted and committed lawyer. I highly recommend him."
"if you have been injured and live in New York , Chris is the "go to" guy , especially in western new york . i have seen chris in action and he is dynamic , caring and prepared . You can't go wrong and you can't get any better either!"
"Chris is one of the best advocates I've had the pleasure of working with. He is one of the "Good Guys"."
Personal injury lawyer
Car accident lawyer
Medical malpractice lawyer
Personal injury lawyer
Litigation lawyer
Litigation lawyer
Litigation lawyer
Litigation lawyer
Litigation lawyer
Personal injury lawyer
Litigation lawyer
Personal injury lawyer
Mesothelioma and asbestos lawyer
Personal injury lawyer
Personal injury lawyer
Arbitration lawyer
Personal injury lawyer
Litigation lawyer
Medical malpractice lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Experience
Honors
2016
Legal Elite Top Ten, Buffalo Business First
2016
Best Law Firm, U.S News Best Law Firms
2016
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2015
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2014
Legal Elite’s Top 10: Best of the Best, Buffalo Law Journal
2014
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2013
New York Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2013
Super Lawyer, New York Super Lawyers
2013
Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America
2012
New York Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2012
Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America
2011
Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers in America
2011
New York Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2010
New York Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2009
New York Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2008
New York Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2005
Diplomate, National College of Advocacy
1999
Million Dollar Advocate, Million Dollar Advocates Forum
Work Experience
2017 - Present
Managing Partner, O'Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers
2012 - 2017
Partner, The O'Brien Firm, P.C.
2009 - 2018
Co-Director of Trial Advocacy Program, University of Buffalo Law School
2001 - 2012
Partner, O'Brien Boyd, P.C.
1995 - 2000
Partner, Ballow, Braisted, O'Brien & Rusin, P.C.
Associations
1992 - Present
American Association for Justice
1989 - Present
Bar Association of Erie County
2016 - 2020
National College of AdvocacyBoard of Trustees
2004 - 2004
New York State Trial Lawyers, Western Region AffiliatePresident
2002 - 2005
Western New York State Trial Lawyers AssociationDirector
1992 - 2015
New York State Trial Lawyers Association
Sample of Legal Cases
$5,000,000.00 settlement
$1,500,000.00 settlement.
$1,200,000.00 settlement
$1,500,000.00 settlement
$2,000,000.00 settlement.
Confidential Settlement
$2,025,000.00 settlement
$4,240,000.00 verdict
Education
1988
JD - Juris Doctor
1985
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2023
Advanced Deposition College-Exhaustion in Questioning
2022
Course Advisor
2022
Advanced Deposition College-Experts
2014
AAJ Ultimate Trial Advocacy College at Harvard
2012
Advanced Trial Skills
2012
MIcroexpressions and Body Language
2010
Deposition of a Corporate Representative
2009
Opening Statements
2008
Jury Selection
2007
Trial Skills
2007
Deposition College
2007
Cross-Examination
2006
Deposition Skills
2006
Focus Groups
2005
Deposition Skills
2003
Trial Skills
2000
Trial Skills
Publications
2024
2024
2024
2024
2024
2024
2024
2024
2024
2008
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers