John Thomas Sylvester

John Thomas Sylvester

4.6
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 11 years

Family Lawyer at San Diego, CA
Practice Areas: Family, Appeals

1615 Murray Canyon Rd Ste 450, San Diego, CA

About John

Biography

Practice Areas

2

Practice Areas

Appeals 50%

11 years

50%
Family 50%

11 years

50%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Hourly Rates

$ 510-510 per hour

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in California for 11 years

State: California

Acquired: 2014

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Cage & Miles, LLP

1615 Murray Canyon Rd Ste 450, San Diego, CA, 92108

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John Thomas Sylvester's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.6 /5.0

27 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 6 reviews | Divorce & Separation

Posted by Denise | April 05, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Excellent Service

John represented me in an unpleasant divorce proceeding. If not for his assistance I am not sure I would have been able to complete the process. John is the extreme professional, his knowledge of the law is formidable. Always kind, respectful, available to answer my questions and calm my fears. H...is communication was outstanding and I was apprised of every step he took on my behalf. His staff was also kind and extremely helpful. I am so grateful for his assistance, I felt I was in the hands of a family member not a stranger.

Posted by Mark | January 03, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Professional and highly skilled

John Sylvester represented me in a highly contentious divorce. I came to John during an extremely messy and stressful part of my case, when my ex wanted throw out our Divorce Agreement and re-litigate the case. I saw John at he Law Offices of David Beavans. During our initial consultation, he ...quickly understood the gist of my case and proposed a practical plan of action. John was methodical and patient in his approach. For me, John had the utmost professionalism, temperament, demeanor, knowledge, smarts, and experience for the job. I immediately realized what type of lawyer I had in my corner when I saw the first paperwork filed on my behalf. John's Court filings were well written, organized and to the point. Previous case precedents were even cited as supporting documentations to our positions. Amazing. During numerous court appearances, John was well prepared, and was articulate and passionate during arguments. It was obvious that John has the respect of judges and other lawyers. John is a great communicator. My phone calls and emails were quickly answered. I was always advised of my options and what each path would take as far as time, cost, and expectations. We always had a solid plan, as well as several backup plans to cover all possible scenarios. All court appearances, paperwork, RFOs, ex-partes, FOAHs, correspondences with opposing counsels, etc were consulted with me beforehand and explained thoroughly. Thankfully, John was able to get my case back on the right track and finalize the Divorce. I am grateful for John's help during this extremely difficult time. The rest of the front office team of Lizel Rosario and Lori Helems were fantastic as well. The office is run efficiently with a touch of kindness. It operates with integrity and does not nickel and dime you with every charge. John and the staff treated me with compassion and respect. Divorce is hard. If mediation doesn't work and you need a great family lawyer, John Sylvester definitely has my highest recommendation.

Posted by Joanna | March 06, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Divorce attorney

John Sylvester was my divorce attorney last year, he also handled the custody and child support cases. He is very professional, honest, timely, thorough, and organized. The process was very stressful, and the case took a few unexpected twists and turns. During these times, I was always advised on ...which options I had, and what those options would entail (cost, court, time, etc). We had to go to court numerous times, and each time, it was very obvious that Mr. Sylvester was prepared, well spoken, direct, and respected by the judge. I felt like all my questions were always answered, no matter how trivial or silly they might have seemed at the time. I felt good that I always had a solid plan with John in my case, as well as a couple of back-up plans in case things went in a direction we were not anticipating. Thank you John and the whole office for providing great services with kindness.

Posted by Sal | October 01, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Mr. John T. Sylvester is who you need to contact for your divorce and family law needs ...

Hello Avvo, I would just like to write a review in regards to my experiences with Mr. John T. Sylvester. John assisted us in a family matter as a family member was going through a divorce. At this present time we are nearing the end of the road in terms of the last pieces of paperwork officially ...wrapping up. John has been our attorney from the start and we have been on quite a journey for this last year or so. Divorce is never easy but John and his office make the process as seamless and as easy as can be. He is fully honest about the process from the start which is one of the most important things you need to look for in choosing how to proceed with sensitive matters like this. He is highly skilled, very intelligent, and well spoken. In addition to that, he has great communication skills and we all know how critical and valuable that is these days. Most importantly, he will have your back and be in your corner. I have nothing but the highest praise for John and the whole team. The new offices are beautiful and you don't need to look any further if you need an attorney that specializes in divorce and family law. John is your man, thanks again John!

Posted by La | August 04, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Amazing Lawyer!

John S. was my attorney during the divorce process. He was very attentive, professional, and provided great service and advice during my divorce proceedings. I really like the fact he always kept me informed of any status changes and took quick action on anything that was needed to get the divorce ...wrapped up. I would definitely recommend him to any of my friends and family that require such services. Thank you John!!

See All Client Reviews

John Thomas Sylvester's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse John
Kelly Ann Price headshot
Kelly Price

Family lawyer | Mar 24

Relationship: Other

"John was kind enough to consult with me on a family law appellate matter. He provided quick, competent advice and was very generous with his time and knowledge!"

Dennis Geis Temko headshot
Dennis Temko

Appeals lawyer | May 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have referred cases to John on prior occasions. I have also read several of his appellate briefs concerning SLAPP issues. I was impressed with this clear and concise writing style and attention to citation detail."

Angel Richard Cabrera headshot
Angel Cabrera

Unknown lawyer | Jun 29

Relationship: Friend

"I heartily endorse John Sylvester. I first met and became friends with John long before he sat for the Bar. In the time that I have known him, John has grown immensely as an attorney and as a person. He has great skills as an practitioner and continues to improve those skills through practice, education and desire. I think so highly of John’s skills and integrity that I have asked him to take care of my estate after I am gone."

Christine Danielle DeLapp headshot
Christine DeLapp

Appeals lawyer | Feb 11

Relationship: Co-worker

"John is one of the best attorneys I know. He is ethical, well spoken, and just a great guy all around. I would hire John in an instant. He is very knowledgeable but is also a great researcher. He is a great debater and writer, and above all else he also has his client's interests in mind."

Eric Schneider headshot
Eric Schneider

Family lawyer | Feb 07

Relationship: Co-worker

"I have worked with John for nearly two years, and I have also worked against him while at a prior firm. I can honestly say that, from both perspectives, John is a stellar attorney. John is intelligent and quick-witted, which makes him a very effective litigator as he comes to court thoroughly prepared and can also react well to the unexpected in the courtroom. John is also extremely reasonable and will avoid costly litigation where possible. John is certainly good enough at what he does that, if he chose to be, he could be an arrogant showman in the courtroom, as many attorneys are. However, he instead chooses a reasonable approach that results in him being highly respected by his clients, opposing counsel, and the bench. I strongly endorse John."

Elizabeth S Gerbasi headshot
Elizabeth Gerbasi

Family lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I worked with John on a family law matter that lasted several years. He was always courteous and cooperative and pleasant to work with. I fully endorse this attorney."

Matthew Steven Blado headshot
Matthew Blado

Family lawyer | Jan 31

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"John is an excellent attorney and advocate. He is easy to work with, reasonable, and fair. He also has a great grasp of family law and works hard for his clients. I unequivocally endorse John."

James Richard Vercollone headshot
James Vercollone

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jan 28

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I have worked with John on divorce matters as opposing counsel. I have found him to be a zealous advocate for his clients, yet remain civil. This approach often serves all parties well in trying to resolve matters without excessive litigation. I endorse John."

Elizabeth R. Louis headshot
Elizabeth Louis

Family lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Co-worker

"John is a brilliant attorney. He exercises a meticulous attention to detail and thinks outside the box. He always goes the extra mile for his clients. I have learned an inordinate amount from him in the two years I have been fortunate enough to work with him."

Caitlin Victoria Steele headshot
Caitlin Steele

Family lawyer | Nov 01

Relationship: Co-worker

"John is a fantastic attorney in multiple areas of the law. We are able to bounce ideas off of each other and I am constantly learning new ways of conceptualizing cases by speaking with him. John is one of the most hardworking and motivated attorneys I have ever worked with, in the event I am unavailable I have no hesitation with having John take over a case of mine. I endorse John without reservation."

David C. Beavans headshot
David Beavans

Litigation lawyer | Apr 21

Relationship: Co-worker

"John is an outstanding family law and civil litigation/appeals attorney. He is a thorough and competent professional who has a natural drive to excel. What I especially admire about him is his exceptionally sharp eye for detail. He also has a very calm demeanor that is a blessing for clients in and out of the courtroom. I would not hesitate to recommend John as an attorney."

Stuart L Mellman headshot
Stuart Mellman

Family lawyer | Jan 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Sylvester is an excellent family attorney and civil litigator. I highly recommend him for any family law matters. I endorse this lawyer."

Erik Philip Nelson headshot
Erik Nelson

Litigation lawyer | Jan 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John is an outstanding attorney. I have known him since 2011 and have only the highest praise for him. John listens intently and is very personable. I would recommend any potential client contact John with their legal matter."

Tristan James Lloyd headshot
Tristan Lloyd

Family lawyer | Mar 09

Relationship: Friend

"John is an extremely smart hard working individual, he is one of the most reliable people I know. If I needed service in his area he would be my attorney."

View All Endorsements
Kelly Ann Price headshot
Kelly Price

Divorce and separation lawyer

Andrew Jack Botros headshot
Andrew Botros

Family lawyer

Dennis Geis Temko headshot
Dennis Temko

Appeals lawyer

Angel Richard Cabrera headshot
Angel Cabrera

Family lawyer

Christine Danielle DeLapp headshot
Christine DeLapp

Family lawyer

Eric Schneider headshot
Eric Schneider

Family lawyer

Matthew Steven Blado headshot
Matthew Blado

Family lawyer

James Richard Vercollone headshot
James Vercollone

Family lawyer

Milena L. Celentano headshot
Milena Celentano

Family lawyer

Stuart L Mellman headshot
Stuart Mellman

Estate planning lawyer

Jessica A. Pederson headshot
Jessica Pederson

Family lawyer

Elizabeth R. Louis headshot
Elizabeth Louis

Family lawyer

David C. Beavans headshot
David Beavans

Litigation lawyer

Caitlin Victoria Steele headshot
Caitlin Steele

Family lawyer

Gina Nicole Cucuzella headshot
Gina Cucuzella

Government lawyer

Tristan James Lloyd headshot
Tristan Lloyd

Business lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2021

2021 Super Lawyers "Rising Star", Super Lawyers

2020

2020 Super Lawyers "Rising Star", Super Lawyers

2019

2019 Super Lawyers "Rising Star", Super Lawyers

2019

2019 Avvo "Client's Choice" Award, Avvo

2018

2018 Super Lawyers "Rising Star", Super Lawyers

2018

2018 Avvo "Client's Choice" Award, Avvo

2017

2017 Avvo "Client's Choice" Award, Avvo

2013

Excellence for the Future Award, CALI

2013

Jefferson Medal, Thomas Jefferson

Work Experience

2021 - Present

Lead Attorney, Cage & Miles, LLP

2014 - 2021

Attorney at Law, Law Offices of David C. Beavans, APC

Associations

2024 - Present

State Bar of California, Board of Legal Specialization

Certified Appellate Law Specialist

2020 - Present

State Bar of California, Board of Legal Specialization

Certified Family Law Specialist

2019 - Present

State Bar of California, Family Law Section

Member

2018 - Present

San Diego Appellate American Inn of Court

Associate

2018 - Present

California Lawyer's Assocation

Member

2014 - Present

San Diego Family Law Bar Association

Member

2014 - Present

State Bar of California

Licensee

2011 - Present

San Diego County Bar Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Sexton v. Valois

Affirmed on appeal in our client's favor.

P. P. v. M. T.

Affirmed on appeal in our client's favor.

Bohrer v. Carroll

Reversal on appeal in our client's favor.

Sapan v. Braun

Affirmed on appeal in our client's favor.

White v. Maksimow

Reversed on appeal in our client's favor.

See More Legal Cases

Education

N/A

Thomas Jefferson School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

N/A

San Francisco State University

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2019

San Diego Family Law Bar Association

Becoming a Certified Family Law Specialist

2018

Thomas Jefferson School of Law

Careers in Family Law

2014

Thomas Jefferson School of Law Opportunities in Family Law

Publications

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution