Shartsis Friese LLP

Litigation

Senior Counsel

Arthur J. Shartsis is widely recognized as one of the preeminent litigation attorneys in the United States, celebrated for his integrity, strategic acumen, and unwavering commitment to his clients.

As a founding partner and senior counsel of Shartsis Friese LLP, Art Shartsis has built a career spanning more than five decades, marked by landmark cases, significant contributions to legal scholarship, and a dedication to mentorship within the legal profession.

Art’s legacy is characterized by integrity, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of justice. As a founder of one of California’s leading law firms and a mentor to countless attorneys, he has left an indelible mark on the legal community. His commitment to his clients, colleagues, and the broader public exemplifies the highest ideals of the legal profession.

In 1975, at a time when large law firms dominated the legal landscape, Art, in partnership with Bob Friese, established Shartsis Friese LLP. The firm was founded on principles of excellence, independence, and client-centered representation, with an emphasis on serving clients with the sophistication of a large firm, but the personal touch and flexibility of a boutique practice. These principles continue to guide the firm today. Art’s influence is evident in the generations of lawyers he has trained and inspired, and in the lives of the clients and communities he has served.

Under Art’s leadership, the firm quickly gained a reputation for handling complex business litigation, securities, real estate, and corporate matters. Shartsis Friese became known for its tenacity, ethical standards, and the ability to resolve high-stakes disputes efficiently and effectively. Art’s vision was to create a law firm where every attorney is invested in the client’s success and where teamwork is paramount.

Art’s legal experience covers a wide range of legal disciplines, with a particular focus on business litigation. He has represented corporations, partnerships, and individuals in diverse litigation matters, including contract disputes, fiduciary duty claims, and intellectual property issues. His strategic approach and analytical precision have earned him the trust of Fortune 500 companies, mid-size public and private corporations, and individuals.

Throughout his career, Art has been at the forefront of numerous high-profile and complex cases. He has successfully litigated multimillion-dollar disputes, secured injunctions in bet-the-company cases, and represented clients in precedent-setting appellate matters. His courtroom presence, combined with meticulous preparation, has resulted in a track record of remarkable results. He has appeared in both federal and state appellate courts, including the California Supreme Court. Art has litigated a number of cases involving claims for more than one billion dollars. He has also represented major law firms, federal and state court judges, several California Constitutional Officers (including the Governor), and the States of California and Hawaii.

With an influence that extends well beyond Shartsis Friese, Art has served as an officer and board member for various professional and civic organizations. In addition, Art is deeply committed to elevating the legal profession and regularly mentors young attorneys.

American College of Trial Lawyers: Member; Association of Business Trial Lawyers of Northern California: Founding President, 1991-1993; University of California Mock Trial Program: Coach, 2004-2025; Bay Area Rapid Transit: Elected Director, 1976-1988, President, 1983-1984; California Lawyers for the Arts: Founding Director; Henry Fork Foundation; Founding Director

University of California – Berkeley, School of Law; J.D., 1971 | Oxford University, 1968 | University of California, Berkeley; A.B., with honors, 1967 (Valedictorian)