“ It’s hard for me to imagine a more de- serving member of the defense trial bar than John W. Bell to receive the JVR Lifetime Achievement Award. John, a founder of Johnson & Bell, has been a formidable opponent in some of the most complex personal injury and wrongful death insurance defense cases that my firm has faced over four decades. Over the last several decades I have gone to “battle” with John in count- less cases. I have always found him to be a man of unparalleled professional- ism, upholding the principles of civil- ity and justice. As a defense attorney, I have witnessed firsthand John’s rare combination of deep legal knowledge and remarkable courtroom presence, making him a true force to be reckoned with in the legal community. Plus, he’s a rather clever fellow which requires any opponent to maintain maximum attention and focus during every mo- ment of a trial! I have enjoyed sparring with him in the courtroom, knowing it would be a “bat- tle,” but one that we would come away as worthy opponents, colleagues, and good friends. John approaches each case with utmost diligence, treating every client with re- spect, compassion, and an unwavering belief in their right to a fair trial. His com- mitment to upholding the principles of justice and his tireless efforts in defend- ing their rights are truly remarkable and deserving of recognition. John is also widely regarded for his pro- fessionalism and ethical conduct. He consistently displays the highest level of integrity in his interactions with both clients and colleagues, earning him the respect and admiration of all those who have had the honor of working along- side him. His impeccable reputation for honesty, reliability and dedication to his profession is a testament to his strong moral character and unwavering com- mitment to the principles of justice. I have no doubt that his achievements and impact will continue to inspire and shape the legal profession for years to come.”
John Bell with his wife, Deborah Bell
Sometimes winning requires a creative solution. Bell points to a case in which an iron worker suffered devastating injuries after a steel beam collapsed. The injuries left the worker as a paraplegic. Rather than fight his case over fault, Bell and his client admitted that the client was liable for the plaintiff’s injuries. Instead, Bell’s case centered on determining what would be fair and reasonable compensation for the plaintiff. “The compensation became the issue,” Bell said. “The jury no longer had to focus on what caused the accident. That took the steam out of the case. There was no emotional reaction from the jurors. You have to contain the jury’s emo- tions. The emotions are what drive up the compensation numbers.” The result was favorable for Bell’s client. The jury awarded compensation that was lower than the figure that Bell and his client had offered to settle the case. Bell is now retired and can look back fondly on a successful and meaningful career. Today, he spends time working on his putting game, which he says is not going well. He still loves the game of golf, though, and enjoys spending time on the course. He does miss his legal days, though. The thrill of trying cases is something that he’ll never forget, he said.
Robert A. Clifford, Clifford Law Offices
“I do miss the practice,” Bell said. “What I loved to do was trying cases.”
JURY VERDICT REPORTER • 2023 ANNUAL TRIAL LAWYER EXCELLENCE AWARDS 53
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