About John Kieran
John Kieran Powers is a senior partner at Powers & Santola, LLP, a prominent law firm located in Albany, New York. With over five decades of legal experience, he has dedicated his career to personal injury law, focusing on cases involving hospital and medical malpractice, as well as serious or catastrophic personal injuries. His extensive background provides clients with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in navigating complex legal challenges. Mr. Powers graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1969, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Government and International Relations. He continued his education at Albany Law School, where he received his Juris Doctor in 1972. Admitted to the New York State Bar in 1973, he has maintained his license for an impressive 53 years, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to the legal profession.
Throughout his career, Mr. Powers has held several influential leadership positions within various legal associations. He co-founded the New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers and served as its president. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in the New York State Trial Lawyers Association, where he also held the presidency. His involvement extended to the Trial Lawyers Section of the New York State Bar Association, where he chaired the section and was an active member of its House of Delegates. From 1990 to 2004, he was a member of the national Board of Governors of the American Association for Justice (AAJ) and served on its Executive Committee. Notably, he is one of only 43 lawyers nationwide to be granted Life Membership in the AAJ, underscoring his significant contributions to the field.
In addition to his professional achievements, Mr. Powers has been a staunch advocate for brain injury awareness and support. He served as First Vice-President of the New York State Brain Injury Association and holds Life Memberships in both that organization and the National Brain Injury Association. His commitment to advocacy is further exemplified by his role as a director of the Melvin M. Belli Society, where he continues to promote the interests of individuals affected by brain injuries. Mr. Powers has authored numerous publications addressing critical legal issues, including a chapter in "The National Head Injury Foundation Guide to the: Analysis, Understanding and Presentation of Cases Involving Traumatic Brain Injury." His expertise has made him a sought-after speaker.
He has participated as a chairperson or lecturer at over 400 programs throughout the United States and Canada. He is also admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court, the U.S. District Courts for the Northern, Southern, Eastern. Western Districts of New York, as well as the District of Vermont, adding to his reach and influence in the legal community.
