John S. Berry, Sr.

In the civilian world, he received the FBI Award for Service in the Public Interest for his training on cross examinations, and the Helping Hand award from MAD DADS. JSB has also been recognized for his pro bono work for important causes, including helping fellow Veterans struggling with PTSD, working with the Native American Rights Fund, the American Civil Liberties Union, and the Nebraska Civil Liberties Union.

JSB has long been a noted leader in Nebraska’s legal community.  He was asked to be the full-time host of Lincoln’s largest rush-hour radio program to use his extensive legal knowledge to craft insightful analysis of current events, hosting The John Stevens Berry Show on KLIN and KZUM from 1997 to 2001. He also previously served as president of the Nebraska Criminal Defense Attorneys Association and the Robert Van Pelt Inns of Court. Due to his significant positive contributions to the community and the state of Nebraska, Governor Ben Nelson declared August 1, 1997 to be John Stevens Berry Day in Nebraska.

In 2018, JSB was inducted into the New Mexico Military Institute Hall of Fame for his vast list of accomplishments. His legacy of excellence propels Berry Law to live up to its founder’s reputation and continue his mission of bringing Veterans and civilians the best legal aid in America.

Family, Detective Stories, and Lifelong Passions

Even after passing the helm of Berry Law to his son, JSB is still an active member of the community and loves hosting get-togethers with his family and friends.  A great orator and storyteller, he is known to hold court and entertain large groups with his stories, recitations of poems, and his quick wit.

He lives with his wife of nearly 50 years, Margaret, an accomplished artist whose paintings have been shown at exhibitions throughout the U.S. He is immensely proud of his three sons, John, Chris, and Rory—all Veterans—and his daughter, Laura, a TV journalist. He also enjoys teaching skills to his grandchildren, including competitive swimming (JSB swam in 5 states and two countries when he was younger, setting a few records along the way) and Judo (he was a member of the Northern California Black Belt Judo Association).

When he’s not enjoying the company of his children and 7 grandchildren, JSB can be found reading mystery and detective books, often rereading a Sherlock Holmes story. As a lifelong fan of Sherlock Holmes, JSB remains an active member of the Baker Street Irregulars, a prestigious international literary society honoring Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and his works. He is one of 700 individuals to receive the Shilling Award from the organization.

JSB is still active in the firm and the broader legal community and is a member of the Melvin Belli Society and a fellow on the American Board of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

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