How do I help clients navigate complex litigation?

For more than two decades, I’ve helped guide clients through complex litigation by digging deeply into the facts, anticipating the other side’s arguments, and building practical strategies that position us for success. Much of my work centers on the research, motion practice and persuasive writing that often determine the outcome of a case long before trial, and colleagues frequently rely on me to help develop and strengthen those legal arguments. Whether I’m preparing dispositive motions, appellate briefs or trial strategy, I focus on clear communication, meticulous analysis and keeping clients informed in the way that works best for them. 

Cultivating creative litigation strategies

Jon Cartledge concentrates his practice on commercial litigation, insurance defense, product liability and appellate advocacy. Drawing on more than 20 years of litigation experience, he represents businesses, insurers and insured clients in state and federal courts, handling matters ranging from complex commercial disputes to catastrophic injury, wrongful death and multimillion-dollar tort litigation. He also regularly represents clients in matters involving the oil and gas industry, commercial trucking and other highly regulated sectors.

Building persuasive arguments through research and writing

Often serving as the “writer’s writer” at the firm, Jon enjoys the work that often shapes the outcome of litigation before a jury is empaneled. He crafts persuasive briefs, researches challenging legal issues, and constructs motion strategies that have secured summary judgment and dismissal in numerous cases. Known for spotting procedural and substantive opportunities that others might overlook, he combines careful attention to detail with creative thinking to strengthen his clients’ positions.

Partnering closely with clients throughout the process

Jon recognizes that many insurance defense clients never had the opportunity to choose their attorney, making trust and communication especially important from the outset. He takes time to understand how each client prefers to receive updates, explain the litigation process in practical terms, and ensure they remain informed as their case progresses. That client-centered approach helps reduce uncertainty while fostering productive relationships built on responsiveness and transparency.

Contributing experience beyond the courtroom

In addition to his litigation practice, Jon assists with matters involving Oklahoma high schools, supporting legal issues at the junction of athletics, education and school administration. He also enjoys exploring evolving areas of the law through legal writing and scholarship—including product liability, contribution and indemnity—bringing the same disciplined research and thoughtful advocacy to every client engagement.

Experience

Representative experience includes*:

  • Lead on motion practice and member of trial team for large oilfield services company in three-week wrongful death trial regarding five workers in an oil rig blowout. Plantiffs sought $100 million each, but successfully contained verdict to $1 million per plaintiff (10% of $10 million verdict)
  • Lead on motion practice and member of trial team for national pipeline company if four-week trial over a pipeline explosion and fire seriously injuring two workers. Defense strategy was to contain and control verdict outcome.  Jury award was exactly what defense suggested as a proper result.
  • Granted summary judgement by numerous state and federal courts in significant litigation.
*Past results afford no guarantee of future results. Every case is different and must be judged on its merits.

Credentials

  • University of Tulsa College of Law, J.D., 2001
    • Salutatorian
    • Law Review
    • Order of the Curule, Chair
    • Chief Justice of the College of Law Supreme Court
  • Oral Roberts University, B.A., summa cum laude, 1998
    • Government Department Student of the Year, 1998

  • Oklahoma
  • U.S. District Court Eastern District Oklahoma
  • U.S. District Court Northern District Oklahoma
  • U.S. District Court Western District Oklahoma
  • U.S. Court of Appeals Tenth Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals Federal Circuit

Honors & Awards

  • Oklahoma Super Lawyers, Rising Star, 2014-2016

Publications & Media

  • Co-Author, Contribution and Indemnity Law in Oklahoma, Oklahoma Bar Journal 84 No. 2, 2014.

  • “Contribution and Indemnity in Oklahoma, Mayes County Bar Association, 2015; Tulsa County Bar Association, 2015
  • “Oklahoma Tort Law Update, Zurich North America Claims Adjusters Seminar, 2014
  • “Oklahoma’s Newest Tort Reform, Zurich North America Claims Adjusters Seminar, 2009