Harold John McElhinny, Appellate Attorney in San Francisco, California

Harold concentrates on appellate, class action, general, insurance, and ip. Each area below outlines the kind of case Harold handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Appellate

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• Class Action

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• General

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• Insurance

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• IP

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• Litigation

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• Patent

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• Trade Secrets

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Harold's primary office is at 425 Market Street, San Francisco, CA, 94105-2482. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new appellate attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Harold usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Harold discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in appellate practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Harold for a appellate case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Harold walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Harold offer a free consultation?

  Harold charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Harold's office. Some appellate attorneys offer free consults — check Harold's current terms during booking.

• How long do appellate cases in California typically take?

  Simple appellate matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Harold gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Harold take my case if I'm outside San Francisco?

  Harold is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Harold will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Harold?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Harold will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Harold accepting new appellate clients right now?

  Harold's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.