Previous Law Firm Name

• Sutterfield, Webb & Smith, March, 1999

Law Firm Overview

FIRM DESCRIPTION

Sutterfield & Webb, L.L.C. is a firm dedicated and efficient lawyers practicing in the fields of insurance, environmental law, complex litigation, property insurance, product liability, professional liability, maritime and energy law, governmental entities and general civil litigation. The firm represents clients with interests throughout the Gulf South Region, and includes lawyers licensed to practice in Louisiana, Texas, and Washington, D.C., as well as the federal courts of other states.

FIRM PHILOSOPHY

We believe the practice of law is a profession, not a trade, which demands an undertaking based on fidelity as well as competence. Although there are material considerations, we believe that the accumulation of wealth and the building of law firm dynasties are not the measure of success as a lawyer. Our lawyers are carefully screened to confirm that they will not only do quality work, but will share our attitude that the respect of our clients and our peers is more valuable than being listed among the largest firms.

In order to retain this respect, we recognize that we must perform quality work at a reasonable price. We understand that our clients have a right to demand quality and excellence which goes beyond the standard of providing competent representation, and even beyond responding their needs and protecting them from their adversaries. The standard we strive to meet means working with our clients to create and carry out strategies for the client's success, not merely our own. It means more than just understanding the law -- it also means understanding our clients' needs and how best to help them fulfill these needs.

As counsel to in civil litigation, we recognize that we must understand the financial pressures on our clients which not only influence the fees they are willing to pay for legal services, but also their litigation management style. We recognize that as much as we like to try cases and win, our greatest contribution is to help our clients manage their businesses to show a profit, whether involving trials or otherwise. We do this by not only helping them resist non-meritorious claims, but by providing timely and accurate information upon which our clients can rely in conducting business. By doing so, we are part of our clients' team and share their success.

BILLING PHILOSOPHY

In addition to hourly billing, we offer flat fee and expense arrangements, value billing, and other alternatives to the traditional hourly fee structure. We believe that this provides our clients optimal flexibility and control over the costs of litigation. We also believe clients want and deserve "no gimmick" billing. For that reason we do not tack on our internal charges for copies, telephone, fax, basic computerized research and the like; such expenses being included within our rates. Out of pocket charges are billed without mark-up or "handling fees."

TECHNOLOGY

The firm has a state-of-the art computer network employing the latest software. We have the capability of configuring alternative means of access to engage in real-time and direct electronic communications for reporting and billing purposes with our partnering clients. We upgrade our software as needed to keep pace with our clients' needs and expectations. We have a computer link with the other law firm members of the Harmonie Group for the rapid exchange of information helpful to our clients.

Areas of Practice

• Litigation
• Insurance
• Coverage litigation
• Environmental law
• Complex litigation and class actions
• Property insurance
• Product liability
• Professional liability
• Maritime and energy law
• Employment law
• Toxic Torts.

Representative Cases

• Valley v. Specialty Restaurant Corp., 98-0438, 1999, La. 4th Cir, 1999 WL 25625

West Practice Categories

Employment Law -- Employee, Environmental Law, Insurance Law, Property & Casualty, Litigation & Appeals, Class Actions -- Plaintiff, Products Liability Law, Professional Malpractice Law, Toxic Torts, Admiralty & Maritime Law