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John George Scherf IV

Family Attorney at Andalusia, AL

4.8   20 reviews
Virtual consultation available
Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 31 years
    State AL
    Acquired 1992
    Status
    Occupational License - Authorized to Practice No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About John

Learn John’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    30%
    Marijuana, DUI, DWI, Drugs, Paraphernalia, Stops, Roadblocks, Field Sobriety Tests, Breathalyzers, Speeding Tickets, Probable Cause, Illegal Searches, Arrests

    31 years

  2. Divorce and separation
    30%

    31 years

  3. Family
    30%

  4. Social Security & Disability
    5%

    31 years

  5. Workers compensation
    5%

    31 years

PERSONAL INJURY, DIVORCE/FAMILY LAW & CRIMINAL DEFENSE. RATED ONE OF "ALABAMA'S TOP 10 TRIAL LAWYERS" FOR 2021 -2023.

EXPERIENCE COUNTS!

John Scherf earned his nickname the "Bulldog" due to his tenacity in the courtroom and has been selected as one of the "Top One Percent" of attorneys in the United States and named one of Alabama's "Top Ten Trial Lawyers". He has served as the Lead Litigator for various law firms including Scherf, Griffin & Davis; Scherf, Davis & Gedgoudas; and Scherf Law Firm. He has multiple office locations including Andalusia, Alabama and a new location in Northwest Florida to better serve your legal needs.

Mr. Scherf earned his undergraduate degree at the University of West Florida, where he received a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology with a Minor in Criminal Justice in 1987. He went to law school at the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University, where he graduated with a Juris Doctorate of Law (J.D.) in 1991. John "Bulldog" Scherf has over (30) years of experience in Auto/Trucking Accidents, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Family Law, Personal Injury, Premises Liability (Slip & Falls), Social Security Disability, Worker’s Compensation & Wrongful Termination.

Mr. Scherf is licensed with the Alabama State Bar and all Federal US District Courts in Alabama. Selected as one of the Nation's "Top One Percent" of attorneys for 2017-2023 by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel (NADC). Specifically, less than 1% of practicing attorneys in the United States are members of the Nation’s Top Attorneys. The roster of NADC members truly includes the leading legends of the legal profession. Recently selected by (YAIOA) as one of the "Top 10 Best Lawyers in Alabama" for 2020-2023. Membership includes the most exceptional and seasoned trial lawyers in the State of Alabama. Nominated one of the "10 Best Attorneys" in Alabama for 2016-2023 by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys (AIOPIA). Nominated one of the "10 Best Attorneys" in Alabama for 2016-2023 by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys (AIOCLA). The National Trial Lawyers Association (NTL) selected Mr. Scherf as one of the elite "Top 100 Trial Lawyers" for 2017-2023. Each of the distinguished Top 100 members possesses the knowledge, skill, experience and success held by only the best and finest lawyers in America. John "Bulldog" Scherf was also recently nominated by "Super Lawyers" which is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only the top 5% of attorneys nationwide are selected for this honor! Let us fight for you!

 

 

 

Awards

Client's Choice 2018,2015
Client's Choice
2018 2015

Photos and videos

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Contact John

Scherf Law Firm, LLC

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  20 customer reviews
Client's Choice 2018
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Alex R | December 4, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best decision hiring him
Thanks to John I was not charged for marijuana or paraphernalia. He is the man to go to and now I can look back at my pcb spring break trip and laugh about it definitely recommend him to anyone!
Response from John Scherf March 15, 2016
We handle a lot of Drug, Marijuana and DUI cases. Always stand up for your rights and make sure the arresting agency abides by the law and follows proper procedure. If they fail to do so, your charges can be dismissed!
Posted by Mark | July 10, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
John handled my divorce with the expertise that I expected. He guided me with advise you would expect from a veteran civil attorney. I would allow him to handle any legal affairs for me in the future. He is a very capable and competent attorney! I strongly recommend him!
Response from John Scherf July 15, 2018
Thank you Mark! Divorces can be especially tough and we try to take the burden and stress off your shoulders to ensure your interests are protected. Whether it be child custody/support or asset division, we will give 100% to fight for you!
Posted by Tommy | March 12, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent Representative
I met with Mr. Scherf for a brief consult in regards to some faulty construction work that caused me injury and mental anguish. Mr. Scherf was very attentive, personable, upfront, caring, empathetic and straight forward. He left me with full confidence that if I wanted to proceed with his services that he was the right man for my case. Highly recommended!! I ultimately decided not to follow through with any lawsuit and settled my issue with said contractors one on one.
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Posted by Teneshia | October 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Heaven Sent!!!
I will try to keep this short due to limited characters. I cannot say enough about this Earthly Angel who I meet during a trying time in my life OVER 15 years ago! After being turned away countless times by attorney offices regarding what I soon learned was a phantom accident, I was blessed to meet not just an attorney, but an Angel sent here to help those in the courts of law and life. Through his tenacious and caring heart and spirit we won the case that seemed hopeless to me after so many turn aways from other attorneys. He not only handled my case, but he also was an encouragement in one of my darkest moments in life. Today I have another issue and looked him up in my phone and yes, his contact info is still in my phone. I am so elated to speak with him soon to congratulate him on his continued success. Mr. Scherf, you deserve it ALL because you give it your all!! I HIGHLY recommend him for any case, because if he for whatever reason can't or don't take a case he WILL get you to someone who will!!! Much gratitude and appreciation to Attorney John Scherf!!
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Posted by Ron | April 24, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dismissed
Everyone should hire this gentleman. I didn't have to do anything. I hired him he done all the hard work
Posted by Brooke | October 15, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
John G. Scherf is an excellent Attorney!
Mr. John G. Scherf IV has been a great attorney. I hired Mr. Scherf for a small claims suit that was brought against me, and he was very persistent on getting it taken care of. Needless to say they settled and I was very thankful for his services on the matter! I will suggest him to friends and family for any legal issues they may have.
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Posted by anonymous | August 29, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Big fight for a little finger
My hand was injured on the job over 2 years ago. The nerves and tendons were severed on a piece of glass. I have endured multiple surgeries, pain shots, medications, and physical therapy. John Scherf has fought for fair compensation for my injured hand and fingers. He has also calmed my fears while handling the interaction with Human Resources and a not so nice or accommodating workplace environment. My job has been protected by his tenacious fighting spirit. My fingers do not move like they did before the accident and I have made changes in my lifestyle because of the constant pain and disfigurment. John Scherf has fought for me, encouraged me, been my voice, and gone above and beyond in the workers comp battle. This man knows the law and has no problem explaining it to others when they challenge his clients.
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Posted by Natalie | August 7, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
He is a shark
John Scherf has respresenrd me for the past year and will always in the future. He gets done what needs to be done. I’ve always said I don’t trust lawyers, because they are only after money... not Mr. Scherf. He truly cares about his clients and their cases, and he does everything in his power to make sure justice is served.
Response from John Scherf August 8, 2018
Thank you Natalie! I have enjoyed working with you. I promise our clients that once I get my teeth into a case (Pardon the pun) I will not let go until the job is done!
Posted by Cheryl | May 17, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney !!!!
I would like to HIGHLY recommend Mr.Scherf , he represented me on 2 different occassions. Mr. Scherf, is professional and very dependable. One of the reasons I like working with him is because when you call him you get to speak directly to him instead of a para -professional . I have found he returns his calls promptly and is very clear on his procedures and how and if he thinks you have a case before you retain him.
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Posted by Pamela | May 17, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch Lawyer
He stood by me when other lawyers were not wanting to take my case. He went above and beyond in getting evidence that related to my winning my case. He is an exceptional lawyer and I recommend him fully.
Posted by Matt | February 9, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The man to go to!
John helped me save my career and clear me from false allegations against me. If you’re looking for a defense attorney in Andalusia John is the man to go to! He’ll go the extra mile (or 100) to make sure you’re taken care of.
Response from John Scherf July 5, 2018
Thank you Matt! Just because charges are filed against you does not necessarily mean you are guilty. We make sure to proactively fight any allegations, picking the case apart to get the case(s) dismissed. No stone is left unturned and we will always be 100% prepared. That is our promise!
Posted by Ernest | January 21, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great lawyer!
Mr Scherf took my case when many others were barely even willing to discuss it with me, much less take the case. My case was a divorce/custody case that had gotten very complicated with multiple states involved, as well as many other things. He very quickly got things turned around and headed in the right direction for me. Even with all of the confusion, dishonesty (from my ex), misrepresentation (by my ex), and out right false accusations made by my ex, I was extremely happy with the court's ruling on the matter. As far as his fees, I can tell you this, he is VERY reasonable, in fact, he's more than reasonable, and will see you through to the end, with no hidden or additional fees. Past lawyers seemed to love billing me for every single paper clip and envelope that they used, even the envelope used to send me the bill! Not John. He let me know the price up front, and that was all I paid! Extremely fair, and Amazing in the court room! He was definitely prepared for trial, and I left court feeling very pleased! I definitely recommend John Scherf.
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Posted by anonymous | July 17, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Spring Break MIP
We live out of state and my son needed a lawyer for a MIP that was issued to him when traveling through AL. to FL. for Spring break. I looked online and contacted several lawyers. After careful consideration I decided to hire Mr. Scherf. Anytime I have called or emailed Mr. Scherf, he has answered in a very timely manner, always making himself available. His fee was all inclusive. Therefore I paid him one time to handle everything. With us living out of state it helps to have a lawyer that you can depend on.
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Posted by Christopher | April 16, 2015
My Lawyer / My Friend
I came to Mr. Scherf full of worries and doubt. He asked me what was going on and to relax, John knew of my medical conditions and went above and beyond a "LAWYERS" responsibilities and treated me like a life long "FRIEND" . I would recommend Mr.Scherf he is dependable,competent and show's compassion to his clients like their Friends indeed. If you have legal issues, Mr. Scherf is the ONLY man for the job!!!
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Posted by Burma | April 13, 2015
My review regarding Attorney John George Scherf IV
In my experience with Attorney John G. Scherf IV, I found a very positive, well educated, outgoing and professional Attorney. He went above and beyond in resolving my issue. Attorney Scherf is an excellent and a perfectionist Attorney. Also, I would highly recommend anyone to use him as their Attorney, simply because, Attorney Scherf is absolutely the "Best" in his field. Best Regards,
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Posted by Keri | April 12, 2015
The solution to your worries!
Mr Scherf is without a doubt the only preference I have for any legal representation required. He is so dedicated to his clients that office visits feel like your at a personal friend's home. It doesn't matter how long a consultation takes, he's going to get every detail about your case and keep you updated. His attention to detail is second to none! Amidst his many qualities the most refreshing is his honesty. Another one of his clients I know personally told me they tried to hire Mr.Scherf to help him with filing a disability case. After a lengthy consultation, Mr.Scherf informed his possible client that he didn't need any representation all. Because of the man's medical issues, John was 100% sure the man would be granted benefits , "So why hire me when you can apply yourself and Not to have to pay me any legal fees?" If that isn't integrity I don't know what is! Also Mr.Scherf told the man he would however get everything needed for an appeal prepared. Most people always assume lawyers are only in the profession for money. Well Mr.Scherf is isn't. He genuinely cares about people and he puts all of his brilliant talent into helping those who are in need.
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Posted by Marla | April 8, 2015
More than just a Lawyer
Mr. Scherf provided me with excellent service and so much piece of mind that my affairs were being expertly handled. As often the case I was really not qualified to deal with the paperwork and technical details of my case on my own. Once I turned everything over to him it was such a relief. I have not had to worry and could focus on getting well.
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Posted by Glen | April 7, 2015
Positive
Have had little need for an attorney but when I did I found Mr. John to be first honest no bull about what might happen. May not have been what I would have liked to to heard but left knowing I had the facts and what the different out comes might be. Would recommend him to anyone in or out of our area that is looking for truthful representation. Glen
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Posted by Susan | July 19, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Integrity
I consulted with John before I filed my Social Security disability claim. John advised me on how to apply and which benefits to apply for. I followed John's advice, even asking his advice along the process. My claim was approved and John only wished me the best. John's compassion for others is evident in helping others without regard for monetary compensation. Kudos to John Sheet!
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Posted by Royally Screwed | January 4, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Have him every opportunity
Hired John to represent a divorce Should have known after asking a few questions he told or I should say scolded me “You need to let me do my job, I’m really good at it” All I was doing was asking a question Okay ! Showed up for 1st hearing and WOW I got F$@&?D , & He Got HomeCooked as they said Another words I got screwed bad all because he wasn’t prepared & the other attorney spoke directly to me rt in front of him To which is a big No-No and is grounds to be reported to the Bar association . We asked for some money to be returned after we fired him and that’s when we never heard again from him ! Be very careful in hiring John in my humble opinion .... He not only cost me $$ Thousands $$ , then he Lost me $$ Thousands $$ due to his being out Lawyered, Not Prepared, & Rushed And overall Ignorance .... Use Caution Humbled Soon to be divorced
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Managing Partner
  • Scherf Law Firm, L.L.C.
  • 2007 - Present
  • Managing Partner
  • Scherf & Associates, L.L.C.
  • 2000 - 2006
  • Senior Partner
  • Scherf, Davis & Gedgoudas, L.L.C.
  • 1998 - 2000
  • Senior Partner
  • Scherf, Griffin & Davis, L.L.C.
  • 1995 - 1998
  • Associate
  • Frank S. Buck, P.C.
  • 1993 - 1995
  • Associate
  • Taylor & Taylor, P.C.
  • 1992 - 1993
  • Law Clerk
  • Powell, Peek & Baldwin, P.C.
  • 1991 - 1992
View all work experience

Education

  • Samford University, Cumberland School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1991
  • University of West Florida
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1987
  • Northwest Florida State College
  • AA - Associate of Arts
  • 1983

Legal Cases

  • Lehigh Portland Cement Company v. Yeager, 648 So.2d 602 (Ala. Civ. App. 1994)
  • Affirmed on Appeal for Plaintiff

Associations

  • The National Trial Lawyers (NTL)
  • "Top 100 Trial Lawyers"
  • 2019 - Present
  • America's Top 100 High Stakes Litigators
  • Member
  • 2017 - Present
  • The National Trial Lawyers (NTL)
  • "Top 100 Trial Lawyers"
  • 2017 - Present
  • National Association of Distinguished Counsel (NADC)
  • "Top One Percent" of Attorneys Nationwide
  • 2017 - Present
  • The National Trial Lawyers Association (NTL)
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • 2016 - Present
  • American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys
  • "10 Best" in Alabama
  • 2016 - Present
  • American Society of Legal Advocates
  • Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers 2016
  • 2016 - Present
  • Alabama Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • National College of DUI Defense (NCDD)
  • General Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • "10 Best" in Alabama
  • 2016 - Present
  • American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • Andalusia Chamber of Commerce
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • Covington Historical Society
  • Past President (2 Terms)
  • 2010 - Present
  • Covington County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present
  • Alabama Association for Justice
  • Member
  • 1992 - Present
  • Alabama State Bar
  • Member
  • 1992 - Present
  • Cumberland Trial Advocacy Board
  • Member
  • 1992 - Present
  • Birmingham Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1992 - 2010
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • "Top 100 Trial Lawyers"
  • The National Trial Lawyers (NTL)
  • 2022
  • Top Ten Best Lawyers in Alabama
  • YAIOA
  • 2020
  • "Top 100 Trial Lawyers"
  • The National Trial Lawyers (NTL)
  • 2019
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2018
  • Top 100 Criminal Defense lawyers
  • American Society of Legal Advocates
  • 2018
  • "Top One Percent" of Attorneys Nationwide
  • National Association of Distinguished Counsel (NADC)
  • 2017
  • "Top 100 Trial Lawyers"
  • National Trial Lawyers (NTL)
  • 2017
  • America's Top 100 High Stakes Litigators
  • America's Top 100 Attorneys
  • 2017
  • Top Lawyers in Alabama
  • The Legal Network
  • 2016
  • "10 Best" Personal Injury Attorneys in Alabama
  • American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys
  • 2016
  • "10 Best" Criminal Law Attorneys in Alabama
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2016
  • Preeminent 5.0 out of 5
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2016
  • Top 100 Lawyers
  • American Society of Legal Advocates
  • 2016
  • "Top 100 Trial Lawyers"
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2015
  • Top Lawyers in Alabama
  • The Legal Network
  • 2015
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2015
  • "10 Best 2015" for Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
  • 2015
  • Top Lawyers in Alabama
  • The Legal Network
  • 2014
  • Top Lawyers in Alabama
  • The Legal Network
  • 2013
  • 2010 Directory of Distinguished Attorneys
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2010
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (9)
Given (3)
Endorse John
Divorce and separation Attorney | May 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He's well respected among his peers and clients alike."
Unknown Attorney | May 23
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"John is a hard working attorney who is willing to put in the time necessary to litigate cases from start to finish. Good attorney!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John is a great lawyer and works tirelessly for his clients."
Workers compensation Attorney | Feb 24
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Having opposed Mr. Scherf many times, I endorse him as a lawyer who represents his clients well."
Workers compensation Attorney | Apr 22
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer."
Litigation Attorney | Apr 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Personal injury Attorney | Mar 31
Relationship: Friend
"John and I have known each other for over 25 years. He and I graduated together from Cumberland School of Law at Samford University in 1991. (I always tried to get copies of his notes to do better on exams.) After graduation John and I and another graduate of Cumberland Law School founded Scherf, Griffin and Davis,LLC. We practiced together for many years. As my practice now is exclusively in consumer bankruptcy, I refer personal injury matters to John, and so should you."
Personal injury Attorney | Mar 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Scherf is experienced, professional and effective."
Workers compensation Attorney | Mar 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John is an excellent advocate for his clients!"
View more endorsements
Personal injury
Criminal defense
Personal injury
Andalusia Family Lawyer John George Scherf IV
John George Scherf IV
Family Attorney
Andalusia, AL
Licensed for 31 years
Virtual consultation available