John McCarthy

Since starting the Law Offices of John F. McCarthy in San Diego, John McCarthy has worked tirelessly to help employees throughout California ensure their civil rights in the workplace. McCarthy provides practical counsel and zealous advocacy for the victims of harassment, discrimination, retaliation and wrongful termination. He has taken on individual harassers, Fortune 500 companies and even the courts themselves to ensure better working conditions across California. 

McCarthy’s unrelenting pursuit of justice and his passion for workers’ rights stems from his growing up in a small farming community. After graduating from law school, he went to work for an employment defense firm representing large agricultural employers. He saw firsthand the atrocities many employers would commit in order to make more money. As an associate, McCarthy recognized that he was a part of the problem. He wanted to be part of the solution. So he opened his office in San Diego and hasn’t looked back.

McCarthy truly cares about his clients and it shows. Not surprisingly, his clients have described him as being “extremely knowledgeable in all things labor law” and “very fair and honest,” a “RocknRolla” and even “the mother f-in’ man.” McCarthy’s clients come from all walks of life. They include everyone from immigrant workers who are the victims of sexual harassment to hospital whistleblowers who are wrongfully terminated. He relishes the role of the underdog, taking on employers who have hired defense firms with 1,000 times as many employees. 

Every year, McCarthy volunteers with the San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program to provide pro bono legal advice for homeless veterans at Stand Down. He has also volunteered to serve as a speaker, judge, and even a witness for law students at all three San Diego law schools. McCarthy is truly dedicating himself and his practice to a greater good. 

McCarthy has been recognized by the San Diego Business Journal as “Best of the Bar,” has been recognized as one of the top 40 labor and employment lawyers under 40 in California, and is recognized as a “superb” labor and employment lawyer. He is an active member of CELA, where he has served as a mentor and member of the legislative committee helping draft legislation for the betterment of employees throughout the state. In his spare time, McCarthy enjoys spending time with his family and is the president of the Kiwanis Club of Ocean Beach.