Meet Mark O’Donnell, a hybrid attorney at Daniel Stark.
Mark was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Irish parents, though they moved back to a small town in Donegal, Ireland, at the age of 12. The shift from the bustling streets of New York to a quaint town of just 500 residents was a stark culture shock, but it shaped his outlook and fueled his adaptability. While navigating this transition, Mark immersed himself in sports like rugby, basketball, and Gaelic football.
Mark pursued his undergraduate education at University College Dublin. At UCD, he completed a comprehensive four-year degree combining business and law. The program not only solidified his academic foundation but also set the stage for his eventual career in law. His path required additional effort as he navigated the unique process of qualifying as a lawyer in the United States, writing his own appeals to meet New York’s requirements for foreign law degrees.
After college, he began working in New York, taking roles ranging from financial training sales to legal consultancy, before dedicating himself to studying for and passing the New York bar exam. He started his legal career managing cases primarily on the defense side, tackling challenges such as premises liability, property damage, and construction disputes. His practice transitioned to plaintiff representation when he recognized his passion for leveling the playing field for underdogs, channeling his skills toward helping individuals through personal injury cases.
Mark joined Daniel Stark in April of 2022 as a hybrid attorney, bringing years of experience and a fighter’s mentality. His tenure at Daniel Stark has been an exciting departure from his previous roles, exposing him to a unique workplace culture that prioritizes personal connections, collaboration, and core values. From taking on greater management responsibilities to engaging with the “soft skills” that define the firm’s values, Mark has embraced both the challenges and rewards of his time at Daniel Stark. What excites him most about his work is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on his clients’ lives while being surrounded by a passionate and driven team.
When Mark isn’t working, he brings the same energy and passion to his personal pursuits. A former athlete who once competed in rugby and basketball at a high level, he enjoys staying active and taking advantage of the “outdoorsy lifestyle” Austin has to offer. Whether it’s through spending time with his wife, traveling, or winding down with family over tea during visits to Ireland, Mark values creating memories and connections in every facet of life.
His personal philosophy and professional approach make him a dynamic contributor to the Daniel Stark team and a fierce advocate for those in need. We are thankful for the unique perspective he brings to our firm.
