DEPARTMENT PROFILE

Greines, Martin, Stein & Richland LLP

Litigation

4 ranked lawyers

Band 1

California

USA 2021 View ranking table

chambers review

department information

Ranked Lawyers

Chambers Review

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What the team is known for

Distinguished appellate boutique with proficiency in a wide array of industry sectors, acting for a broad range of individuals, public entities and corporate clients. Offers deep expertise in state and federal court work, including frequent appearances before the California Supreme Court. Often called upon to assist trial counsel in strategizing cases in anticipation of appeal.

Strengths

"It's a fine appellate firm with fine lawyers," say fellow practitioners.

Sources add: "They have an amazing state appellate practice."

Work highlights

Represented the County of Riverside before the Ninth Circuit to affirm a lower court judgment dismissing claims brought by Calvary Chapel Bible Fellowship, challenging a zoning ordinance which allegedly disallowed religious organizations from operating in the zone.

Notable practitioners

Alana Rotter enjoys a burgeoning reputation for her appellate expertise, including advising clients on appeals before a range of state courts and the Ninth Circuit in civil appeals.
"Alana is a very good writer."

Kent Richland is a well-respected practitioner possessing deep experience in appellate work in state and federal courts.

Laurie Hepler is an appellate specialist who advises clients on appeals both locally and on a nationwide basis. Her practice covers a broad range of areas from employment to unfair competition.
"Laurie is really good at advancing a theme in the case, is a good speaker and is very good on her feet."

Robin Meadow is well versed in handling appeals across such diverse fields as insurance, real estate and personal injury.
"Robin is a dean of the California appellate Bar and is a very experienced lawyer." "He is very active, well connected and handles all sorts of cases."

Department Information

This content is provided by Greines, Martin, Stein & Richland LLP.

Overview

GMSR collaborates with trial counsel to set cases up for success in the trial court, and to preserve victories, or reverse losses, on appeal. When the stakes are high, savvy trial counsel turn to GMSR for help.

Dispositive trial court motions. GMSR’s incisive legal analysis and exceptional writing make it a powerful ally in drafting the motions that can shape or resolve a case – including demurrers, motions to dismiss, motions for summary judgment, federal Rule 50 motions and state-court motions for a new trial or judgment notwithstanding the verdict.
Jury instructions, pre-trial briefs, and verdict forms. GMSR consults with trial counsel to craft jury instructions, crucial motions in limine, trial briefs, and verdict forms that will maximize chances for success – both in the trial court and on appeal.
Writ petitions. Drawing on extensive experience, GMSR is well positioned to advise trial counsel on whether to seek pre-judgment review of an adverse ruling, and to draft writ petitions that attract the appellate courts’ attention.
Appeals. GMSR brings a fresh eye to the record and the issues on appeal, drafting persuasive appellate briefs and presenting oral argument in a way that resonates with appellate courts. The firm also helps trial counsel and clients assess settlement value after judgment based on realistic evaluation of appeal prospects and sensitivity to client goals.