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Hanson Bridgett Attorney Receives Notable Certification in Appellate Law from State Bar of California

June 2, 2021 (San Francisco, CA) – Hanson Bridgett LLP, a preeminent law firm for all of California and beyond, is pleased to announce that attorney Josephine Petrick, Senior Counsel in the firm's Appellate Practice, has been approved as a certified appellate law specialist by the State Bar of California and the California Board of Legal Specialization.

 With this noteworthy certification, Petrick joins firm Partners Gary Watt and Adam Hofmann bringing Hanson Bridgett's total certified appellate specialists to three.

"This is one of the achievements that I am most proud of in my career," Petrick said. "Not only does it show my skillset, it's a certification that proves to my clients how truly dedicated I am to my colleagues, my appellate practice, and the law."

Petrick's practice focuses on appeals and law and motion in both state and federal courts. She also provides strategic and law and motion support in complex and high-stakes business, commercial, securities, and environmental matters, including class actions and multidistrict litigation.

Receiving a legal certification from the State Bar is an intensive process that requires the following even to be considered for such:

  • passage of a written examination in the legal specialty area
  • the continuous practice of law for at least five years, spending at least 25 percent of the time given to occupational endeavors practicing in the specialty area
  • completion of continuing education in the specialty area greater than that required of general licensees of the State Bar
  • demonstration of a broad-based and comprehensive experience in the specialty area based on completion of a variety of matters in the specialty area
  • favorable evaluations by other attorneys and judges familiar with the attorney's work in the specialty area of law

The State Bar of California then approves each attorney's individual application based on the above requirements. These certifications are exclusively reserved for attorneys who have gone above and beyond the standard licensing requirements in their field.

"I am tremendously proud of Josephine's achievement. It is so deserved," said Watt, Co-Leader of the firm's Appellate Practice, "Receiving this certification, as Adam and I know from experience, is no small feat. We look forward to seeing her continue to excel in her career."

Petrick's certification is effective June 1, 2021.

About Hanson Bridgett LLP

Hanson Bridgett LLP is a full service AmLaw 200 law firm with more than 200 attorneys across California. Creating a diverse workforce by fostering an atmosphere of belonging and intentional support has been a priority at Hanson Bridgett since its founding in 1958. We are dedicated to creating an environment that provides opportunities for people with varied backgrounds, both for attorneys and administrative professionals. We are also committed to the communities where our employees live and work and consider it part of our professional obligation to serve justice by encouraging and supporting pro bono and social impact work.

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John J. Buchanan
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Hanson Bridgett LLP
415-995-5031