HWS News
23 April 2026 • Alums • Outcomes Sarah O’Brien ’13 Named Partner at Barclay Damon
From HWS to complex commercial litigation, O’Brien advances at Barclay Damon.
Just over a decade after graduating from Hobart and William Smith, Sarah O’Brien ’13 has been named a partner at Barclay Damon LLP, a leading regional law firm with offices across the Northeast. She focuses on complex commercial litigation in both federal and state courts, representing clients in industries including construction, manufacturing, financial services, real estate, and data and security.
After earning her cum laude degree in Public Policy Studies, O’Brien went on to receive her J.D. from the University at Buffalo School of Law. Today, her practice centers on business disputes such as breach of contract claims, fraud allegations, partnership and shareholder conflicts, construction disputes, and matters involving regulatory frameworks.
O’Brien credits her time at HWS with shaping her interest in the law. Through coursework that emphasized critical thinking, structured argument and close analysis, she developed skills that directly translate to her legal practice.
“During my time at HWS, I was drawn to courses that emphasized critical thinking, structured argument and close analysis of complex material,” she says. “I also benefited from professors who challenged me to articulate positions clearly and defend them thoughtfully — skills that are essential in legal practice.”
At 34, O’Brien is considered relatively young to achieve partner status. She attributes her advancement to building strong relationships with clients and colleagues, developing subject-matter expertise, and consistently delivering practical, reliable counsel.
“I focused on finding mentors, taking ownership of my cases, and contributing to the firm beyond my individual caseload,” she says. “Over time, that combination of work ethic, client trust and commitment to the firm’s long-term success positioned me for partnership.”
While at HWS, O’Brien was also a member of the William Smith basketball team and earned Liberty League All-Academic honors for three years. She notes that balancing academics and athletics helped reinforce discipline and time management — skills that have supported her professional growth.
