Ryan D. O’Connor is a Partner at WhiteBird, PLLC. His practice includes litigation involving business transactions, real estate matters, construction disputes, and probate issues. With a wealth of experience as a civil litigator, Ryan is dedicated to guiding his clients through every facet of the litigation process.

One of the distinguishing aspects of Ryan’s legal career is his extensive background in appellate matters. Early in his career, he spent five years focusing exclusively on appellate cases at a prominent nationwide law firm based in Florida- an experience that has proven invaluable in shaping his current role as a litigator. The concentrated focus on appeals honed his skills in legal writing, research, and oral argumentation, setting him apart in his ability to provide comprehensive and effective representation for his clients.

An award-winning attorney, Ryan has been recognized as a “Rising Star” in Florida’s legal community by Super Lawyers magazine and named “One to Watch in America” by Best Lawyers legal publication. Ryan also received numerous accolades while in law school, including multiple book awards recognizing him for receiving the highest grade in his class.

Outside the office, Ryan enjoys fishing, playing golf, traveling, and spending time with his wife and two children.

  • Super Lawyer Rising Star, 2020, 2023
  • Best Lawyers, “One to Watch in America,” in both Appellate Practice and Commercial Litigation, 2023-2024

  • Volunteer Moot Court Judge, Florida State University College of Law, 2013-2017, 2020

  • “The Multi-Jurisdictional Practice of Law,” Association of Corporate Counsel, Fall 2021

  • Berthiaume v. Smith, 875 F.3d 1354 (11th Cir. 2017) – Successfully obtained reversal of a judgment following a jury trial in high profile civil rights case; established binding precedent on issue of first impression in the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals
  • Potter v. Potter, 317 So. 3d 255 (Fla. 1st DCA 2021) – Successfully defended judgment on appeal in family law case involving legal issues of first impression
  • A Flock of Seagirls LLC v. Walton County, 7 F.4th 1072 (11th Cir. 2021) – Successfully obtained the removal of an easement over the beachfront property