Stinson Adds Commercial Litigator John Bessler to its Minneapolis, DC Office

01.28.2025

Stinson LLP is pleased to welcome John D. Bessler to the firm. Bessler joins as of counsel in the firm's Financial Services & Class Action Practice Division. He will split his time between Stinson's Minneapolis and DC offices.

"John's exceptional skill as a commercial litigator, strong leadership and extensive network make him a valuable asset," Financial Services & Class Action Chair Chuck Hatfield said. "His thorough knowledge of the law will help deliver the solutions and value our clients need when facing complex challenges, while strengthening our litigation practices and contributing to the firm's national growth."

Bessler brings more than 30 years of legal experience to his diverse litigation practice. He has extensive civil litigation experience and has represented clients across a variety of industries in matters related to construction, contracts, employment, insurance and torts. Bessler has handled multimillion dollar class actions and commercial disputes and has successfully advocated for clients in federal and state courts as well as administrative proceedings.

"I am honored to join Stinson and look forward to contributing to its commitment to excellence and effective client representation," Bessler said. "I have long admired the firm's national reputation and dedication to serving clients and the community."

Bessler previously worked at AmLaw 50, AmLaw 100 and AmLaw 200 firms, including Leonard, Street and Deinard, Stinson's predecessor firm. In addition to his legal career, Bessler is a tenured law professor at the University of Baltimore School of Law, an adjunct law professor at the Georgetown University Law Center and a visiting scholar at the University of Minnesota Law School. Bessler is also a renowned author of work covering the foundation and origins of American law and capital punishment. He has written extensively about the Italian philosopher Cesare Beccaria, the Italian Enlightenment and the American Revolution, and criminal justice issues. Additionally, Bessler is a recently-elected member of The American Law Institute.

Bessler earned a J.D. from Indiana University Bloomington, an M.FA. from Hamline University, M.ST. from the University of Oxford and a B.A. from the University of Minnesota.