Lafayette J. Clarke, Esq.

Trial Attorney | Personal Injury & Civil Litigation

Lafayette J. Clarke is a senior litigation attorney representing plaintiffs in complex personal injury and civil matters in state courts throughout California and in federal district court. He joined the Law Office of John C. Ye with a diverse background that includes experience in insurance, municipal, and corporate defense, bringing a strategic and well-informed perspective to every case he handles.

Mr. Clarke’s practice focuses on high-exposure personal injury cases, including motor vehicle collisions, premises liability, and catastrophic injury claims. He has handled matters involving traumatic brain injuries, debilitating orthopedic injuries, and significant economic damages.

Mr. Clarke’s background also includes experience as a private investigator and private security professional serving high-net-worth individuals and family offices. This experience provides him with a practical understanding of security operations and risk management, which he leverages in cases involving negligent security, premises liability, and security personnel.

Drawing on his prior experience in insurance and defense-side environments, Mr. Clarke has a strong understanding of claim evaluation, liability analysis, and defense strategy. He leverages this insight to anticipate defense positions, develop effective counter-strategies, and position cases for maximum recovery.

He approaches every matter with a trial-focused mindset and has prepared numerous cases for trial in courts throughout California, including state and federal district courts.

Outside of his personal injury practice, Mr. Clarke advises high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals and family offices on complex risk matters, integrating legal strategy with operational and reputational considerations. He is also actively involved in advocacy efforts supporting survivors of sex trafficking and child exploitation and dedicates time to mentoring young men and women throughout the Los Angeles community.

Outside of his legal practice, Mr. Clarke enjoys international travel, culinary exploration, photography, and maintaining an active lifestyle that includes equestrian pursuits and the regular practice of hot yoga.