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About John
Biography
As an attorney specializing in criminal law, family law, probate, and personal injury, I am passionate about advocating for my clients in their most challenging times. My journey into law began during my college years, when my father experienced a life-changing accident. The way his attorneys guided our family through that difficult process left a lasting impact on me and inspired me to pursue a career where I could make a difference.
I thrive on competition, whether in academics, sports, or in the courtroom and I believe that a strong support system is vital. That's why I surround myself with positive, community-driven individuals. Over the years, I have earned top AV ratings in recognition of my commitment to excellence in my legal practice.
My greatest fulfillment comes from helping my clients achieve satisfaction in their cases, navigating them through the complexities of the legal system with compassion and dedication. I’m here to support you every step of the way.
Recognized as a premier attorney by the National Trial Lawyers.
Practice Areas
5
Practice Areas
Divorce and Separation
35%
Criminal Defense
25%
Personal Injury
20%
Domestic Violence
10%
Fees and Rates
Awards
2024 2023 2019
...
+
3
Licenses
Licensed in Alabama for 26 years
State: Alabama
Acquired: 1999
No misconduct found
Location
John M. Totten, PC
(256) 233-1323
Fax
105 South Marion St., Athens, AL, 35611-2552
johntottenlaw.com/Gallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find John online.
John Michael Totten's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 71 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Takarra | February 16, 2026 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Divorce
I wanna thank Mr. Totten and Bridgett all the hard work they did. He only took five months and I’ve gotten my divorce and if I need anything else they offered to assist me thank you guys.
Posted by anonymous | January 28, 2026 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
excellent family law attorney
John Totten is an excellent family law attorney. From the start, he was knowledgeable, straightforward, and professional. He took the time to explain the legal process clearly and made sure I understood my options every step of the way. His responsiveness and attention to detail made a difficult and ...
Posted by Glen | January 5, 2026 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
I couldn’t have hired a better Attorney than John Totten !!!
I had a great experience with John Totten and his staff Sarah and Bridget were all so kind and informative! I was impressed from start to finish with John and how he handled everything for me! I know first hand how well John Totten can take charge of a courtroom ! I will always recommend him to anyon...
Posted by k | June 30, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Divorce
Mr. Totten , Ms. Bridget , and the receptionist Ms. Sarah were absolutely amazing in assisting me through this very stressful process. They walked me through the process and answered questions as they arrived. The whole team was very courteous and professional. A very big thanks to all of them.
Posted by anonymous | August 23, 2024 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Thank you!!
Helped me get joint custody of my son. Thank you and the team for everything!!
John Michael Totten's Lawyer Endorsements
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I'm proud to endorse John M. Totten as a lawyer who is serious about DUI defense. As a member of The National College for DUI Defense, John is committed to DUI defense, and will work hard to help you through this stressful situation. If you've been charged with a Athens DUI, call John and ask for help."
"I endorse this lawyer. John is always a worthy opponent as he is prepared, professional, courteous and well-versed in the law. He has a well-earned reputation as an excellent lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. John is a very knowledgeable attorney who always works hard to get the best results for his clients."
"Mr. Totten is a wonderful person and a great lawyer to have on your side. He is not afraid to learn new areas of the law in an effort to represent vulnerable children. He's got a great heart and I endorse this lawyer."
"John is a talented lawyer. I have seen John in action and know that he will work hard to get the best outcome for his clients. I endorse John Totten."
Susan Conlon
Divorce and separation lawyer
Thomas Jarvinen
Criminal defense lawyer
James Nation
Social Security & Disability lawyer
Rebeca Salmon
Immigration lawyer
Experience
Honors
2025
AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2024
AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2023
AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2022
AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2021
AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2018
Client's Choice, Avvo
2017
Top 100 Trial Lawyer, National Trial Lawyers Association
2017
Client's Choice, Avvo
2016
Top 100 Litigation Lawyer, The American Society of Legal Advocates
2015
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2015
Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association
2015
Top 100 Litigation Lawyers, American Society of Legal Advocates
2015
Client's Choice, Avvo
2014
Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association
2014
AV Preeminent, Martindale-Hubbell
Work Experience
2005 - Present
Attorney, John M. Totten, P.C.
2002 - 2005
Attorney, Burgess & Hale, LLC
1999 - 2002
Attorney, Luker, Cole and Associates
Associations
2015 - Present
American Society of Legal AdvocatesMember
2015 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseGeneral Member
2014 - Present
National Trial Lawyers AssociationMember
2014 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember
2012 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
2007 - Present
Boys & Girls Club of AthensBoard Member
2005 - Present
Limestone County Bar AssociationMember
1999 - Present
Alabama State BarMember
2005 - 2010
Athens Rotary ClubMember
Sample of Legal Cases
Smoak v. State of Alabama
Conviction overturned
Blasdale v Blasdale, 65 So3d 428, Alabama Court of Civil Appeals
Appeal victory as Wife was awarded a significant monetary award in the business held by the parties during the marriage. This case is landmark in valuing a corporate asset held during a divorce action.
Education
1999
Birmingham School of Law (Birmingham, AL)
JD - Juris Doctor, with Honors
1996
University of North Alabama
BS - Bachelor of Science
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers