John J. Elmer

John Elmer practices within the firm’s general litigation defense group with a particular emphasis on matters involving personal injury. He worked at a high-volume plaintiff’s firm for six years before joining Brown Sims, which gives him an uncommon perspective as a defense attorney.

Since joining Brown Sims in 2021, Mr. Elmer has successfully brought several claims to resolution through settlement, trial and appeal. Among his successes include the following:

• In a case in which defendant underwent multiple back surgeries and after an adverse trial court ruling, Mr. Elmer was able to successfully argue on appeal that the plaintiff had compromised her claim prior to litigation and have the claim dismissed. See Smith, et al. vs. Aon Risk Services Northeast, Inc. et al. Louisiana First Circuit Court of Appeal 2023 - CW – 1123.
• In Gordon Tatman vs. Marvin Williams, et al., Mr. Elmer obtained a favorable verdict at trial and defeated Plaintiff’s appeal as to the amount awarded. See Louisiana Third Circuit Court of Appeal No. 23-136.

Mr. Elmer has lived most of his life in the Greater New Orleans area and has a background in the hospitality industry. His wife is also an attorney, and they have two young children. When not working, he loves to cook, fish, and travel.

Representative Matters

• Summary Judgment for the Elvis Presley Memorial Foundation by arguing Plaintiff’s claim was barred by the recreation use immunity law. See Janice Shumpert v. Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation, Inc. d/b/a Elvis Presley Memorial Foundation. See Circuit Court Of Lee County, Mississippi Civil Action No: 41CI1:21-cv-00084

• John has been recognized as a Super Lawyers rising star every year since 2021.

Professional

• Louisiana Bar Association
• New Orleans Bar Association

Firm News

• In 2024, John presented a CLE in New Jersey on the changes to Louisiana insurance bad faith laws.