Alton G. Burkhalter

Alton G. Burkhalter is recognized for his outstanding results in business litigation, particularly in jury trials.  His notable successes include three “8 Figure” jury verdicts and multiple “7 Figure” jury verdicts, such as: A judgment of $70 million against Universal Studios on behalf of Foxcroft Productions, Inc., and Fairmount Productions, Inc., the creators of the television series “Columbo;” a jury verdict of $30.4 million in a contentious eminent domain case in Nashville, Tennessee, for land upon which Nashville’s new convention center was built; a jury verdict of $11.2 million against Los Angeles County in a complicated water rights case; and a $10.8 million dollar jury verdict in an executive embezzlement case in Alameda County Superior Court.  His practice includes representing auto dealers in connection with disputes against manufacturers, and he holds two of the largest jury trial verdicts for dealers in California.  

Mr. Burkhalter's commitment to high legal standards of ethics and quality representation has gained him the respect of clients and peers alike. He has achieved the highest possible rating of AV Preeminent* from Martindale-Hubbell, and in 2015 received its Client Distinction Award.

Before attending law school, Mr. Burkhalter was a certified public accountant with an international accounting firm. He draws on the knowledge and experience he gained in that role to advise his clients.

A Louisiana native, Mr. Burkhalter obtained his undergraduate degree in accounting from Northwestern State University, graduating cum laude.  He obtained his juris doctor degree from Pepperdine University School of Law, graduating magna cum laude.

*AV Preeminent and BV Distinguished are certification marks of Reed Elsevier Properties Inc., used in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the confidential opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell ratings fall into two categories: legal ability and general ethical standards.