Robinson Cole LLP
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John E. O’Brien, Jr. oversees the investigation of large property losses for property insurers (as well as self-insured entities and high deductible policyholders) in claims arising from fires, explosions, water leaks, water intrusion, flooding, equipment failure, and weather-related damage including catastrophe ‘CAT’ losses, i.e., wind, rain, snow, and freeze events.

John handles litigation on behalf of property insurers and their policyholders against a range of defendants, such as service companies, architects, engineers, developers, general contractors, subcontractors, and product manufacturers. He frequently handles matters related to defects in household appliances, building systems, medical laboratory equipment, and industrial equipment. He has extensive experience litigating cases involving breach of contract, breach of express and implied warranties, products liability, construction defects, professional malpractice, and negligence, including violations of standards of care found in codes, standards and industry practices.

His subrogation recoveries for insurers have arisen from a wide range of subject matters including electrical systems (residential, commercial, and power transmission), electronics, sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, roofing systems, domestic and industrial plumbing systems, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, and municipal water/sewer mains.

John’s subrogation work includes complex issues, such as metallurgical defects, plastics formulation and molding, civil and geotechnical engineering deficiencies, and mechanical engineering design deficiencies.

  • University of Connecticut School of Law (Juris Doctor, with honors)
  • Boston College (Bachelors)
    • B.S., Business

  • Commonwealth of Massachusetts
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, 1st Circuit
  • U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts

American Bar Foundation
Fellow

Massachusetts Bar Association (1998 - present)

Boston Bar Association (1998 - present)

American Bar Association (1998 - present)

National Association of Subrogation Professionals (2005 - present)
 

Pan Massachusetts Challenge (PMC)
Volunteer Crew Leader (2002 - present)