Mark Adams

Mark S. Adams is a seasoned trial lawyer with extensive experience in commercial disputes, including complex multi-party litigation and class actions. He has successfully tried numerous cases in state and federal courts, as well as in domestic and international arbitrations. Notably, Mark achieved two of California's top 50 largest jury verdicts in a single year. Mark has taken or defended nearly 1,000 depositions spanning across North America, Europe, and the Middle East. Mark’s trial victories have been featured in prominent publications such as Forbes, Reuters, and Life Science Weekly. He has been recognized as an authority on noncompete agreements by the Wall Street Journal.

His practice focuses on business litigation, including contracts, corporate and partnership disputes, and hospitality litigation. Mark frequently handles high-stakes shareholder and investment disputes and has a significant track record representing real estate developers and investors. In the hospitality sector, he has successfully litigated the termination of numerous long-term hotel management and franchise agreements, as well as fiduciary duty issues and investor-owner disputes.

Mark is renowned in hotel litigation, representing hundreds of hotel owners in disputes with management brands such as Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, Fairmont, Choice, and Marriott. He also represents the largest independent hotel management company in the United States, and one of the largest globally. As an authority on hotel management and franchise disputes, Mark is a frequent author and lecturer, sharing his vast experience in the United States and Europe on litigation strategies.

Mark is deeply committed to service, dedicating over 200 hours each year to pro bono and community service work. His efforts include supporting underserved domestic violence victims, educating those with limited access to legal resources, representing pro bono clients, and providing meals to the underprivileged.

Outside the Firm

Mark enjoys daily biking, amateur oil painting, playing at the guitar, and is an avid water-skier. He also devotes substantial time and resources to charities and community services.

In 2025, Mark and his wife were honored with the Rich Saul Heart & Soul Award for 10 years of philanthropic services and contributions to Childhelp Orange County—a charity in its 60th year helping abused and at-risk children.

A description of the standard or methodology on which the accolades are based can be found here.