John R. Bailey
Managing Partner
For nearly four decades, John R. Bailey’s trial experience has focused on commercial litigation, healthcare law, and gaming law. In 2001, after 16 years with a renowned Nevada firm, Mr. Bailey struck out on his own and established what is now one of Southern Nevada’s most preeminent law firms – Bailey Kennedy, LLP. His clients include many of the region’s largest healthcare providers, Nevada businesses, and travel and tourism leaders.
Mr. Bailey has served on the Board of Directors of two publicly traded corporations: Boyd Gaming Corporation (NYSE: BYD) (2015-present) and SHFL entertainment inc. (2008-2013). He has also served as a Member and Chairman of the Nevada State Athletic Commission (2001-2009). On numerous occasions, Mr. Bailey has also served as a private mediator for pending litigation cases. Well respected by his colleagues, Mr. Bailey was recommended for a Judgeship on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit by Senators John Ensign and the late Harry Reid during the George W. Bush Administration. In 2020, Mr. Bailey was selected to a panel created by Nevada Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen to vet candidates for recommendation to the White House as nominees to the federal bench.
Professional & Civic Involvement
- Boyd Gaming Corporation (NYSE: BYD): Board of Directors (2015-present)
- SHFL entertainment inc. (NASDAQ Global Select Market: SHFL): Board of Directors (2008-2013)
- International Association of Gaming Advisors
- State Bar of Nevada
- Clark County Bar Association
- The FBI Citizens’ Academy for Nevada
Mr. Bailey is well-known for his commitment to public service. He has served in leadership capacities with the following organizations during the past 25 years:
- Nevada State Bar: Chairman; Member, Character and Fitness Committee
- Southern Nevada District Court Review Commission: Commissioner
- Council for a Better Nevada: Director
- The Smith Center for the Performing Arts: Member, Board of Directors
- Nevada State Athletic Commission: Chairman; Commissioner
- Institutional Advisory Council of College of Southern Nevada: Member
- Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance: Member
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Nevada: General Counsel; Board Chairman; Member
- Nevada Community Foundation: Member
- Public Education Foundation: Director; Member of Executive Committee
- College of Southern Nevada: Member, Board of Trustees
- Andre Agassi Preparatory Academy: Chairman of the Governing Board
Areas of Practice
Accolades
- Benchmark Litigation Star
- Inclusion in Best Lawyers® The Best Lawyers in America
- Mountain States Super Lawyer
- Lawyer of the Year- Las Vegas Chapter of the National Bar Association
- Best Lawyers® “Lawyer of the Year” in Las Vegas for his work in Health Care Law
Education
- McGeorge School of Law, J.D., 1985
- Colorado College, B.A., Economics, 1982
Bar Admission
- State Bar of Nevada, 1985
- United States District Court for the District of Nevada
- United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
