John Ralls is a seasoned trial attorney renowned for his expertise in construction claims, disputes, and advisory services. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, he honed his craft at reputable national firms such as Thelen LLP and Howrey LLP, cultivating a diverse practice focused on construction and public contracts. Representing a spectrum of stakeholders including owners, design professionals, contractors, and suppliers, he adeptly navigates trials, arbitrations, mediations, and negotiations. Throughout his career, he has provided invaluable counsel on contract matters, disputes, and licensing issues across a myriad of projects, from commercial buildings to transportation infrastructures, universities to industrial facilities.
Mr. Ralls boasts an impressive track record of securing multi-million-dollar awards and verdicts for his clients, with notable successes in construction defect litigation, including substantial recoveries for a prominent public university system. Equally adept at defense strategies, he has secured favorable outcomes including defense verdicts and summary judgments in complex construction contract disputes.
Recognized for his legal acumen and contributions to the field, John Ralls has been consistently honored as a Northern California Super Lawyer by San Francisco Law & Politics Magazine for twelve consecutive years. He has also served as Chair of the California Associated General Contractors Legal Advisory Committee and earned the esteemed distinction of Fellow of the American College of Construction Lawyers in 2019.
Beyond his legal practice, Mr. Ralls is a prolific writer and speaker on construction law topics, further establishing himself as a thought leader in the field. His editorial contributions include co-editing the Second Edition of Fundamentals of Construction Law and serving as Editor and Associate Editor of Construction Lawyer, the quarterly law journal of the ABA Forum on Construction Law.
Committed to both professional excellence and personal fulfillment, John Ralls is a devoted husband and father of two, finding joy in family activities like cooking and tennis. His prior affiliations include partnership roles at Howrey LLP and Thelen LLP, as well as earlier experience at Pettit & Martin.
In recognition of his contributions to the legal profession, Mr. Ralls holds esteemed memberships in organizations such as the American College of Construction Lawyers, the American Bar Foundation, and the Associated General Contractors of California. His dedication to legal excellence and client advocacy continues to shape the landscape of construction law.
