John Burkhardt brings extensive experience and a specialized focus to his civil and appellate law practice, concentrating on both litigation in federal and state courts and non-litigation business client counseling. His expertise spans a broad range of areas, with a particular emphasis on:

• Business and Complex Commercial Litigation: John excels in handling disputes related to business operations and commercial transactions, offering strategic advice and representation to resolve complex legal challenges.
• Oil and Gas Litigation: A significant portion of his practice is devoted to litigation involving all sectors of the oil and gas industry, including upstream exploration and production, midstream transportation and processing, and downstream refining and distribution. John’s experience covers a wide array of disputes in this sector, from contractual issues to regulatory compliance.
• Employment and Employee Benefits Litigation: He represents clients in disputes involving employment practices, employee benefits, and ERISA compliance, ensuring that businesses navigate these complex areas with confidence.
• Financial Institution, Bankruptcy, and Securities Litigation: John offers guidance and advocacy for clients involved in the financial sector, including matters related to bankruptcy proceedings and securities disputes.
• Officer and Director Litigation: He provides defense and advice for corporate officers and directors facing litigation related to their roles within companies, focusing on mitigating risks and resolving disputes effectively.
• Intellectual Property Litigation: Protecting intellectual property rights and resolving disputes in this evolving area of law is another key aspect of John’s practice.
• Insurance, Franchise, and Distributor/Dealer Litigation: His work includes representing clients in disputes over insurance coverage, franchise agreements, and distributor or dealer relationships.
• Products Liability and Fiduciary Litigation: John handles cases involving product defects and fiduciary responsibilities, providing thorough and skilled legal representation.
• Arbitration and Mediation: In addition to traditional litigation, he is adept at resolving disputes through alternative dispute resolution methods, including arbitration and mediation.

John’s appellate practice is distinguished by his success in arguing cases related to employment, ERISA, breach of contract, oil and gas, tort, and regulatory issues before the Oklahoma Court of Appeals, Oklahoma Supreme Court, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. His legal practice has addressed commercial disputes on local, national, and international levels, showcasing his versatility and depth of knowledge.

Originally from Chicago, John has been a Tulsa resident for over 45 years, moving here to attend the University of Tulsa. His long-standing ties to the Tulsa community and his extensive legal experience make him a seasoned advocate for his clients.

Education

• University of Tulsa College of Law, J.D., 1980 (Phi Delta Phi)
• University of Tulsa, B.S., with honors, 1977

Bar & Court Admissions

• Oklahoma
• U.S. District Courts – Northern District of Oklahoma
• U.S. District Courts – Western District of Oklahoma
• U.S. District Courts – Eastern District of Oklahoma
• U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit

Professional Affiliations

• Oklahoma Bar Association
• Tulsa County Bar Association
• American Bar Association (Litigation Section)
• Oklahoma Trial Lawyers Association
• Council Oak/Johnson-Sontag American Inn of Court (Barrister)
• Phi Delta Phi International Legal Fraternity

Recognition

• Rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Ratings
• Benchmark Litigation recognition as “Litigation Star”
• Tulsa People recognition as one of Tulsa’s “Top Lawyers”
• Included in Best Lawyers in America (Commercial Litigation)

Practice Areas

• Oil and Gas Litigation
• Business and Commercial Litigation
• Construction Defect Disputes and Litigation
• Employment Litigation
• Trust and Estate Litigation