Jon B. Zimmerman

Jon Zimmerman is a seasoned senior partner and trial attorney at Messner Reeves LLP, practicing with distinction since 1983. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Jon has carved a path in handling many litigation and commercial disputes, elevating his reputation as a leading attorney from the State and Federal trial courts to the prestigious California Court of Appeals and the California Supreme Court.

With an extensive background in construction litigation, commercial litigation, employment, real estate, and personal injury disputes, Jon’s expertise is extensive. Recognized as a California Super Lawyer on numerous occasions, Jon’s prowess and accomplishments speak volumes. He effortlessly navigates the complexities of the legal landscape, offering strategic solutions and unparalleled representation.

Jon’s primary practice in commercial real estate and construction litigation revolves around representing major developers, commercial property owners, general contractors, self-insured businesses, and other commercial entities. His vast experience in these domains has equipped him with profound insights, making him an invaluable asset to his clients. Moreover, his ability to mediate cases actively stems from his in-depth knowledge and extensive involvement in the field.

Martindale Hubbell bestowed Jon with an AV – Preeminent rating, its highest accolade. This prestigious recognition is a testament to Jon’s unwavering commitment to excellence. As a litigation and trial attorney, he has successfully negotiated the resolution of hundreds of disputes, demonstrating his exceptional skills in achieving favorable outcomes for his clients.

Beyond his remarkable legal career, Jon Zimmerman is an active member of esteemed organizations such as the Association of Defense Counsel of Northern California (ADC) and the Defense Research Institute (DRI). He has served as a past member of the ADC Board and currently contributes to the Construction Defect Subcommittee. Jon’s passion for knowledge-sharing extends to his role as an arbitrator and mediator for the Superior Court, where he strives to facilitate fair resolutions. Additionally, he imparted his extensive legal wisdom as a lecturer on law and civil trial practice before the ADC and the DRI.

Jon Zimmerman’s academic journey began in his hometown of Menlo Park, California. In 1980, he graduated from the prestigious University of California, Berkeley, earning Bachelor of Arts degrees in History and Political Science with Honors and Distinction in General Scholarship. Three years later, in 1983, Jon obtained his Juris Doctor degree with cum laude honors from the University of Santa Clara School of Law. Shortly after completing law school, he joined Robinson and Wood, Inc. in San Jose, where he was an equity partner for 30+ years. Jon’s dedication to his craft is matched only by his commitment to his family. He is happily married and cherishes the joy of raising three children. Jon and his team joined Messner Reeves in 2017.

In Jon Zimmerman, you will find an exceptional legal mind, a tenacious advocate, and a trusted advisor. His unwavering commitment to excellence and extensive experience in diverse legal domains set him apart in the legal landscape. Whether navigating complex commercial disputes, championing the rights of his clients in trial proceedings, or mediating resolutions, Jon’s expertise and passion for justice shine through.

Jon’s courtroom successes and trial victories are numerous and noteworthy. Here are a few examples that highlight his exceptional ability to secure favorable outcomes for his clients:

• One of the notable highlights of Jon Zimmerman’s career is his successful argument before the California Supreme Court in the groundbreaking case of LeFrancois v. Duet Technologies, Inc. (2005) 35 Cal.4th 1094. Jon zealously defended his clients in a wrongful termination lawsuit in this pivotal case, successfully overturning the lower court’s decision. Furthermore, his exceptional courtroom skills were showcased in the Santa Clara Superior Court during the 2010 jury trial of UDC Homes, Inc. v. CH2M Hill (2010) 181 Cal.App.4th 10. By clarifying and expanding upon the landmark ruling of the California Supreme Court in Crawford v. Weather Shield Mfg. Inc., Jon secured a favorable outcome for his client, solidifying his reputation as a tenacious litigator.