About John
John Barnett graduated from the University of San Francisco School of Law in 1973. He entered a practice environment that prized courtroom work. Over decades he built a practice around trial litigation and local bar involvement.
Barnett's career has been centered in California. He is associated with Barnett & Barnett, where he has handled matters in state courts. His work has drawn him into high-stakes hearings and jury trials. Colleagues describe him as straightforward in court and careful in preparation.
He holds membership in the American College of Trial Lawyers. That affiliation reflects sustained trial experience among peers. He also serves on the board of the Orange County Criminal Bar Association, a role that keeps him engaged in local criminal justice issues and bar governance. Those positions have placed him in regular contact with prosecutors, defense attorneys and judges in the region.
His courtroom practice has covered criminal matters and contested hearings. He has represented clients at various stages of prosecution, from arraignment through trial. In the courtroom he tends to a methodical approach: assess the evidence, test procedures, and present clear narratives to jurors and judges. Outside the courtroom he works on motions, evidentiary issues and case strategy.
Barnett's clients have ranged from individuals charged with misdemeanors to defendants facing felonies. He has handled pretrial litigation, evidentiary disputes and sentencing proceedings. On the institutional side, his board work with the Orange County Criminal Bar Association has involved discussions about practice standards, continuing legal education and local court procedures.
Across his career he has kept to a practical rhythm. He prepares for trial thoroughly and keeps lines of communication open with clients. He also engages with professional groups that monitor and influence trial practice. That combination of local involvement and trial work defines much of his public profile.
As of 2026 he continues to practice at Barnett & Barnett, where he concentrates on criminal defense and trial litigation.
