Martindale-Hubbell recognizes Joel R. Spivack, Esq. as an AV® rated lawyer, the highest possible rating for any individual lawyer.
According to Martindale-Hubbell:
Confidential opinions from members of the Judiciary and the Bar help establish the Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Ratings system. Representatives from Martindale-Hubbell interview other members of the Bar to discuss attorneys and law firms who are under review. Enough opinions need to be collected from numerous sources before a rating can be given. In some situations, confidential questionnaires are sent to other attorneys and judges located in the same area, and/or who practice the same type of law as the attorney under review. Additionally, attorneys who are under review may be asked to include professional references.
The Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rating consists of two parts:
1. Legal Ability Rating: This includes the attorney’s expertise, professional qualifications, and the standard of professional ability in the area where the attorney practices. When a practice is specialized or limited, the ratings are based on performance in those specifics areas of practice.
Legal Ability Ratings are:
A – Very High to Preeminent
B – High to Very High
C – Good to High
2. General Ethical Standards Rating: This signifies observance to professional standards of ethic and conducts, diligence, dependability, and other standards pertinent to the discharge of professional duties.
The General Recommendation Rating is as follows:
AV Peer Review Rating: Rating given to attorneys who have reached the peak of professional excellence. This person has likely practiced law for many years, and is recognized for the highest levels of integrity and skill.
BV Peer Review Rating: An indication of an excellent standing and well-established practice. This person may be in mid-career, with a high professional standing and substantial client base.
CV Peer Review Rating: An outstanding first rating and a statement of a attorney’s above average aptitude and very high ethics.
V – Very High: An attorney will not receive a Legal Ability Rating unless he or she has been endorsed for a “V.” When both categories of Peer Review Ratings are confirmed, a lawyer receives an AV, BV, or CV Rating.
