Born and raised in South Louisiana, Peyton Murphy built his career on hard work, persistence and a simple belief in doing what's right.
After graduating from LSU in 1988 and earning a law degree from Tulane in 1991, he was admitted to practice law in both Louisiana and Connecticut. Two years later, he founded the Murphy Law Firm in Baton Rouge, determined to fight for those who needed a strong lawyer.
For more than 28 years, Peyton has led with integrity and flexibility. He has earned record verdicts, including an $18.9 million verdict in a single-incident case decided by the Louisiana Supreme Court. His firm is known throughout the country for its trial preparation and track record in car accidents, wrongful death, product liability and medical malpractice cases.
Beyond the courtroom, Peyton believes leadership means performing for the community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she organized mask and sanitizer distribution in Baton Rouge, providing more than 67,000 masks and thousands of meals to families and frontline workers.
A lifelong athlete and father of three daughters, Peyton spends his free time playing golf, bow hunting, and fishing off the coast of Louisiana with his dog, Waylon. His philosophy is simple: success comes from preparation, patience, and helping others along the way.
Learn more about his work at murphylawfirm.com.
Q&A: Peyton Murphy on leadership, law and lessons learned
You have been practicing law for almost three decades. What first inspired you to become a lawyer?
Growing up in south Louisiana, I always knew I wanted to help people. I saw how difficult life can be for ordinary families after an accident or workplace injury. I wanted to be someone they could trust to stand up for them. That goal never really changed.
What were those first years like after you finished at Tulane?
After graduation, I clerked for a state district judge, which was really an incredible education in how the courts work. Then I joined an insurance defense firm. That work gave me perspective—it showed me how the other side thinks. By 1993, I decided it was time to start my own practice, focused on people, not corporations. This is how the Murphy Law Firm was born.
You have earned record verdicts in Louisiana. What's special about those experiences?
The $18.9 million verdict still stands after a nearly three-week trial. The pre-trial offer was a little over four million, but we knew the case was worth much more than that. We fought hard and got justice. That case became one of the largest single-incident verdicts ever handed down by the Louisiana Supreme Court. Another – a $758,000 verdict for a shoulder joint injury – was also a proud moment. It wasn't about numbers; It was about standing up for a customer when others would not.
How would you describe your approach to law?
Common sense, patience and ability to listen. Legal work isn't just about quoting laws – it's about understanding people. You must know when to talk, when to listen and when to remain silent. I still write things the old fashioned way. Short-term goals keep me focused; The long-term ones give me direction.
How do you keep your team motivated at Murphy Law Firm?
We treat every case as if it is going to trial. Preparation is everything. I tell my team: “If you're prepared, you don't have to be unprepared.” That mindset breeds confidence. We also take time to talk about the “why” – why we do this work, why it matters to real people. This is what keeps us connected to the ground.
You are known for your community work, especially during the pandemic. What inspired that effort?
When Covid came, we saw how many people were struggling. I wanted to help in any way I could. It started with a simple mask distribution in our office. Then people started lining up and it got much bigger. We distributed over 67,000 masks, 100 gallons of hand sanitizer and thousands of boxes of food. It showed me how much good things can do when you start over.
What has been your biggest lesson from almost thirty years of practice?
Consistency beats everything else. You don't have to be the loudest or the smartest – you just have to show up, keep learning and do the right thing, even when no one is watching. I've learned a lot from customers, especially those who trusted me during difficult times.
How do you balance work and personal life?
It requires practice. If I spread myself too thin, it shows in my work. I make sure there is time for my daughters and the things that keep me focused – fishing, golf and spending time outdoors. Balance does not mean equal time; This means knowing what has your attention at any given time.
Looking ahead, how do you see your role in the legal community evolving?
I want to keep the faith. This means mentoring young lawyers, joining the Baton Rouge Bar Association, and giving back to the community. The law is not static – it changes with people and culture. My job is to stay curious, keep learning, and make sure our company stands for fairness and integrity.
What advice would you give to young lawyers starting out?
Don't make things too complicated. Focus on preparation, communication, and integrity. Write things down. Learn from gurus, but don't try to copy them. And never forget that behind every file there is a person who is counting on you.
