Licensed for 14 years Free consultation Virtual consultation available

Joseph Franklin Klatt

Litigation Attorney at La Jolla, CA

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Brilliant mind, kind heart. Doesn't get better than this.

Mr. Klatt answered my question on Avvo with specific case and statute citations. After reading several of his impressive answers to other people, I gave him a call. Mr. Klatt spoke with me for about a half hour at no charge, giving me insightful information. He wasn't quite ready to take my case on contingency, but he did give me referrals to other attorneys. I checked them out and would be comfortable with either. But, the other attorneys were geographically undesirable. California is a big place and I was afraid they would need to make appearances by phone. So, I offered to pay Mr. Klatt on a hybrid retainer. He accepted and I am thrilled! One thing Mr. Klatt did not mention at all, but I found through my own research, is that he is a second generation real estate law success story. Many people with parents who forge ahead will ride on the parents' shirttails. Mr. Klatt is quite humble not to brag up his lineage. But it puts me at ease to know he has grown up around wealth, understands our monied adversaries and won't be intimidated easily.

Joseph F. Klatt: the finest attorney in CA

I reached out to Joseph F. Klatt to evaluate my questionable settlement agreement from my previous (sub-par) lawyer. Mr. Klatt responded within two hours and went on to spend well over an hour consulting with me via phone. But that's just the beginning... Mr. Klatt reviewed my agreement and noted concerns in a timely manner. Then, he researched and found an appropriate litigation/settlement tax attorney for me. This tax attorney was so awesome, I hired him to process my taxes as well. Mr. Klatt then wrote a comprehensive memo and instructions on how to make a formal complaint to the bar association regarding the handling of my case from my previous attorney. Among a long list of stellar attributes, Mr. Klatt is extraordinarily intelligent, yet equally personable. He is honest, attentive, kind and caring. I feel like I won the lottery when I connected with Joseph F. Klatt and I highly recommend him!

About Joseph

Learn Joseph’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Litigation

50%

Joseph's litigation practice is comprised primarily of business litigation, real estate litigation, legal malpractice litigation, and general commercial litigation.
Appeals

10%

Joseph also handles civil writs and appeals cases in all California Courts of Appeal, the California Supreme Court, and the Federal Ninth Circuit.
Ethics and professional responsibility

10%

A significant portion of Joseph's practice is dedicated to attorney-client disputes, including: overbilling, malpractice, fiduciary breach, elder abuse, and fraud.
Real estate

10%

His real estate practice includes litigation over landlord-tenant issues; trespass and boundary disputes; disputes between real estate brokers and agents; suits over the purchase of real property; and more.
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Lawsuits and disputes

8%

Lawsuits and disputes are just litigation by another name, and sometimes they resolve in another form, such as negotiation, mediation, or arbitration. Joseph can help you with these conflicts whether in court or out of court.
... Read more
Arbitration

7%

More and more disputes are being resolved in arbitration, not because it is faster, although it can be. Not because it is cheaper, it often isn't, but because many contracts require it. They lack strong discovery and appeals. Joseph can help you.
... Read more
Debt collection

5%

THE LA JOLLA LAWYER

Joseph F. Klatt is a veteran California litigator with demonstrated expertise representing individual and institutional clients in complex civil litigation matters. He is skilled in handling all facets of litigation, including initiating and planning a case, managing discovery, drafting dispositive motions and briefs, conducting depositions, trying and resolving cases, handling complex writs and appeals, and negotiating significant settlements in high stakes cases. He is recognized for handling complex, unique, and troublesome cases, providing innovative litigation strategies, looking at legal issues from multiple and unorthodox angles, and cost-effectively achieving his clients’ objectives.

Joseph was the Valedictorian of his law school class at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, as well as the Editor-in-Chief of the McGeorge Law Review. While in law school he received Witkin awards for achieving the highest marks in over half of his graded units, including Contracts I & II, Torts I & II, Property I & II, Civil Procedure I & II, Constitutional Law I & II, Bioethics, Environmental Law, and Legal Process I & II (Research and Writing). Joseph was voted the Outstanding Graduating Senior by the faculty, and is a member of the Order of the Coif and the Traynor Society. Joseph was a judicial extern for the Honorable Kimberly J. Mueller of the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of California.

Joseph was born and raised in La Jolla, California, and graduated from the University of California at San Diego with a degree in Cognitive Science with a Specialization in Neuroscience.

Awards

Top Contributor

2022 2020 2019

Client's Choice

2019

Photos and videos

Licensed for 14 years

State CA

Status Active

Acquired 2008

Updated 04/18/2023

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

Contact Joseph

Law Office of Joseph F. Klatt

(858) 215-5100 Office

1128 Wall St

La Jolla, CA, 92037-4531

jfklatt.com

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The Law Office of Joseph F. Klatt

9663 Santa Monica Blvd. #959

Beverly Hills, CA, 90210

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Reviews

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4.6 / 5.0

10 customer reviews

5 Star

90%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

10%

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 Laura | July 18, 2019

Brilliant mind, kind heart. Doesn't get better than this.

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Posted by anonymous | March 21, 2019

Joseph F. Klatt: the finest attorney in CA

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Response from Joseph Klatt April 8, 2020

Thank you so much.

Posted by Ombretta | March 6, 2023

Excellent attorney

My case is still an ongoing situation, but I wish to say that Mr. Klatt is a great person and attorney for many reasons. He’s knowledgeable, intelligent, caring, and a hard worker. When we talked on the phone for the very first time, he spent almost two hours listening to my story, asking questions and laying out how he would proceed with my case. He understood very well the delicate situation and how to handle it. Once I decided to hire him, I found out that, after thoroughly studying the situation and deciding on how to proceed, he’s very fast and totally focused. Some days were slow, but that was due to the Courts’ bureaucracy and of course, Mr. Klatt could do very little to nothing in order to expedite the process. As I said at the beginning, it’s still an ongoing situation and I will make sure to update this review. So far, I think I found an excellent attorney.

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Posted by Christine | October 7, 2022

He gave me advice

In 5 plus years not one attorney would help me…even attorneys I dated at the top law firms in Los Angeles….but one phone call to Mr. Klatt changed everything. He gave me advice…he told me what to expect…he did this from the kindness of his heart. He is an angel. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. Good people still exist!

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Response from Joseph Klatt October 9, 2022

Thank you very much.

Posted by Pamela | June 26, 2022

Very helpful and responsive

Mr. Klatt was very helpful and responsive which is something I appreciate in todays business culture. He is very willing to share his knowledge and to also refer you to outside resources when necessary. I would certainly recommend him.

Posted by anonymous | April 21, 2020

Joseph F. Klatt is a winner!

Joseph Klatt came in and saved the day. I had a last minute legal issue that arose and he guided me with confidence, knowledge and skill. Without JFK Law, I would have definitely not been prepared!

Response from Joseph Klatt April 24, 2020

Thanks very much.

Posted by Steven Alan Dow, M.S. | August 21, 2019

Extremely Knowledgeable and Professional

Joseph F. Klatt, Esq. is the consummate professional! His knowledge of the law is exceptional to the extent that he is a walking encyclopedia of the legal statutes. His negotiation skills and approach to settlements and litigation are also second to none. He approaches the case with the goal of getting the best result for his clients, while persuading the opposition to cooperate with him due to his extensive knowledge base and strategic tactical moves. I received a very favorable result from my case after retaining Joseph's services! I would not hesitate to contact him regarding any legal issue that you may have... Don't waste your time with anyone else, go see JFK today!

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Response from Joseph Klatt April 8, 2020

Thank you so much for your comments. You are a fantastic client, and I was happy to do good work for you.

Posted by Katherine | August 13, 2019

A legend in the making!

Joseph F. Klatt settled an 18-month contention in one phone call, absolving me of any further liability on the eve of trial, and leaving my adversary to find another path and save face. Thanks, Joe!

Response from Joseph Klatt April 8, 2020

You are very welcome. It was a pleasure to work for you.

Posted by anonymous | August 12, 2019

Knowledgeable, Understanding & A Great Listener

Looking for a knowledgeable ,ethical , pleasant and A GREAT LISTENER? U found the perfect attorney that possess all the above., his name is James Franklin Klatt. My best experience with an attorney.bar none. The experience with Mr Klatt was a true pleasure I plan on using Mr Klatt for all my legal needs.

Response from Joseph Klatt April 8, 2020

Well, James is my brother and real estate mogul of the family. I'm the black sheep that decided to become a lawyer. I am humbled by your review, and I look forward to working with you again.

Posted by anonymous | October 24, 2022

Joe Klatt should not be practicing law

We retained this attorney for a very simple case, it seems like his world right now is out of his control and he’s not able to handle the simplest tasks. We kept repeating the same requests over and over only to find that he hasn’t done anything. His billing is also all over the place, he doesn’t remember what he did and who he called and which task if any was accomplished. My best recommendation is that you stay away from this attorney let him get his life in order first and then see what happens in the future!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 8.4 (Excellent)

Work Experience

Partner
The Law Office of Joseph F. Klatt
2017 - Present

Associate
Radoslovich | Shapiro
2013 - 2017

Associate
Johnson Schachter & Lewis Aplc
2012 - 2013

Parnter
The Law Office of Joseph F. Klatt
2010 - 2012

Associate
Downey Brand, LLP
2008 - 2010

Extern
Hon. Kimberly J. Mueller
2008 - 2008

Summer Associate
Downey Brand, LLP
2007 - 2007

Editor-in-Chief
McGeorge Law Review
2007 - 2008

View all work experience

Education

Mcgeorge Sol Univ Of The Pacific
JD - Juris Doctor
2008

Univ Of California San Diego
BS - Bachelor of Science
2003

Legal Cases

Hopped up Dentist v. Patient with Heart Condition
Settled with zero liability

Legal Overbilling and Malpractice
Case was dismissed after a series of demurrers, a motion to strike, and an anti-SLAPP motion. Defendant appealed, and was dismissed on motion.

Vexatious Litigant v. Community College District
Case was dismissed after an anti-SLAPP motion, the district was awarded attorneys fees and costs. Plaintiff was declared a vexatious litigant.

View all legal cases

Associations

La Jolla Bar Association
Member
2019 - Present

UCSD Alumni Association
Member
2003 - Present

The Traynor Society
Member
2003 - Present

Order of the Coif
Member
2003 - Present

Phi Kappa Phi
Member
2003 - Present

La Jolla High School Alumni Association
Member
1996 - Present

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Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Valedictorian
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
2008

Outstanding Graduating Senior
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
2008

Publications

McGeorge Law Review
Chapter 700: Statewide Cable Franchising Ends the Patchwork of the Past
2007

Attorney endorsements

Received (15)

Given (13)

Endorse Joseph

Lubna Jahangiri

Litigation Attorney | Apr 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Francis Cowhig

Litigation Attorney | Feb 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Joseph Klatt is a knowledgeable and highly regarded attorney in our community. I have agreed with many, if not all, of his in-depth answers on this forum. I highly endorse Mr. Klatt."

Neil Pedersen

Ethics and professional responsibility Attorney | Feb 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I do not endorse many lawyers on this site. However, Joseph Klatt consistently impresses me with his knowledge and his wisdom through the many dozens of his posts I have read. It is my belief that Joseph would be a very fine choice to represent you in his practice area as he demonstrates all of the best traits of a good attorney."

Raymond Areshenko

Appeals Attorney | Feb 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael Daymude

Lawsuits and disputes Attorney | Jan 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Klatt is relatively new to the Avvo community, but he has already shown he is willing to go the extra mile to provide in-depth answers. I always read his answers and comments because I frequently have my memory refreshed or learn something new. I highly endorse Mr. Klatt."

Paul Tokar

Unknown Attorney | Jan 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Klatt's responses to many of the questions in the Avvo community are on point and provide thoughtful, straightforward insight into the questions presented. I have no doubt that Mr. Klatt's practice is well versed and established to assist his clients as they require."

Robin Mashal

Lawsuits and disputes Attorney | Jan 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Joseph Klatt has made a substantial number of contributions on AVVO. I have read several of his contributions and have found them to be thoughtful, informative and practical."

Scott Carpenter

Litigation Attorney | Aug 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Klatt is one of the most knowledgeable and practical attorneys in this forum, and he applies judgment and experience to his analysis of the issues. Mr. Klatt shows the kind of wisdom that only experience and effort can bring. I endorse this attorney."

Narek Avetisyan

Litigation Attorney | Aug 09
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. I often find myself agreeing with Mr. Klatt's answers to questions posted here on Avvo."

Brandon Robinson

Litigation Attorney | Apr 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Joseph F. Klatt is a seasoned trial practice advocate with both a deep and broad knowledge of civil litigation, and other areas--procedural and substantive. As demonstrated by his thoughtful responses on Avvo, he brings to his daily practice an acumen that is hard won, and can only be gained through experience and studious application of the law to the facts of a client's case. For these reasons and more, I am glad to endorse my colleague."

Michael Long

Unknown Attorney | Mar 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Klatt has shown himself to be very knowledgeable in his responses on Avvo. His experience, diligence, and skill shows through. In addition, it is clear that Mr. Klatt's talents would be invaluable to clients seeking timely advice or legal representation. I endorse Mr. Klatt."

Shaun Culbreath

Litigation Attorney | Mar 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I worked for several years with Joe. He is one of the best attorneys I know. He is an exceptionally gifted litigator with encyclopedic knowledge of the law. He is extremely intelligent, hardworking, and highly ethical. Joe is also very good to his clients."

Myles Taylor

Unknown Attorney | Mar 14
Relationship: Co-worker

"Joe is a great attorney with an incredible knowledge of the law. He has substantial litigation experience and excels at legal strategy and tactics."

Michael Doland

Litigation Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Although new to Avvo it is immediately obvious that the answers of Mr. Klatt are accurate, analytic, and customized to the needs of the Avvo askers. These are exactly the qualities that every client would look for when hiring an attorney."

Byron Roope

General practice Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse this lawyer. He has an incredibly quick mind, is detail oriented, and a zealous advocate. You would do very well in using Mr. Klatt for any legal services you require."

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