Robert S. Arns

About

Robert S. Arns has spent a distinguished career exclusively prosecuting plaintiff civil cases, developing particular expertise in consumer class actions, mass torts, elder abuse, and representing families dealing with catastrophic injuries and death. He has resolved well over $1.5 billion in paid results for plaintiffs through trials and settlements. His consumer protection work spans numerous industries, including banking, internet, defective products, sexual predators, employment issues, and other consumer protection cases. Bob proudly introduces himself as a "family lawyer" — not in the traditional sense of matrimonial disputes, but as an advocate who shoulders the grave responsibility of restoring family dignity following tragedy. He is committed to securing justice and economic freedom for families across the United States who have suffered serious losses.

Bob's drive and work ethic were forged during his upbringing in Portland, Oregon. Raised in a loving family with limited means — his father never completed high school and his mother's education ended with high school — Bob learned the value of hard work early on. Starting with a paper route and lawn jobs, he became a bag boy at Albertson's at 14. By 16, he had achieved journeyman status in the union as both a checker and produce department worker. During his junior year of high school, Bob managed night stock operations twice weekly, an experience he credits as earning his "MBA" before graduation through valuable lessons from older coworkers and supervisors. This foundation of hard work shaped a determination and ability to achieve any goal — an experience he wouldn't trade for anything. His intellectual curiosity was sparked by his older brother Dave, who began submitting editorials to newspapers and magazines at just 12 years old. Dave's academic pursuits, culminating in a PhD in History, inspired Bob to develop a deep understanding of world affairs from an early age.

Bob graduated with Highest Honors from UC Santa Barbara and in the top 5% of his class at USF School of Law, where he received a full scholarship, served as managing editor of the law review, and was named moot court champion. As an adjunct professor at USF for 21 years, he co-taught trial practice with Tom Brandi, a partnership that led to the creation of the Arns Brandi Trial Center at USF — a certificate program ensuring graduates possess comprehensive trial skills from discovery to final arguments. He is the author of the best-selling Rutter Group publications The Evidence Wheel and The Trial Wheel (both California and Federal versions), used by trial lawyers and judges nationwide. He has presented the ABOTA "Masters of Trial" over ten times and served as team captain for plaintiff presenters.

The Arns Davis Law building at 515 Folsom Street showcases his commitment to excellence, featuring facilities to mock-try cases before 36 jurors who can break into three separate deliberation rooms. Bob's community involvement includes serving as a Board Member for Bay Area Legal Aid and participating with Legal Aid of Napa Valley for seven years, hosting California Supreme Court Justices at his Napa home for educational presentations.

Outside the courtroom, Bob pursues diverse interests that reflect his commitment to community and family. As owner of Tournesol Winery and vineyards in Napa, he and his wife Anne cultivate Bordeaux-style wines while developing a deep appreciation for the immigrant families whose remarkable work ethic powers the operation. His entrepreneurial spirit extends to various real estate ventures, including the Arns Davis Law building, Baranof Wilderness Lodge in Alaska, and numerous residential and commercial properties. Bob prioritizes physical fitness through daily workouts, golf, cycling, fly fishing, and other outdoor activities, and remains dedicated to philanthropy across academic, athletic, food bank, legal aid, and other charitable endeavors.

Perhaps most meaningful to Bob is bringing meritorious lawsuits for families from all backgrounds, providing them with economic security — a commitment symbolized by a cherished eagle sculpture gifted by grateful clients bearing the inscription, "Thank you for giving our family freedom." He attributes his well-balanced life primarily to his wife Anne, with whom he recently celebrated 50 years of marriage. He considers his son Christopher, daughter Allison, their spouses, and his five grandchildren to be his best friends. Every day, Bob feels deep gratitude to the exceptional lawyers and legal assistants at Arns Davis Law who help him maintain this fulfilling balance in his professional and personal life.