Simons

Shawn Simons (Simons) and Allerton, LLC (Allerton; collectively, plaintiffs) appeal from the order granting the motions to quash service of summons made by Mark Steverson (Steverson), an individual, and by Rudolph & Beer, LLP (Rudolph & Beer), a New York limited liability partnership (collectively, defendants).

Based on our review of the record and applicable law, we reverse.

We hold that California may properly exercise personal jurisdiction over an out-of-state law firm which employed an attorney licensed to practice law in California who performed legal services governed by California law for California residents seeking recourse before California courts.

Factual and Procedural Summary

The complaint filed on May 17, 1999, contained the following pertinent allegations: Simons was “an independent film producer who, at all material times, [was] a resident of Los Angeles County.” Allerton was “a limited liability company organized and existing under and pursuant to the laws of the State of California.” Steverson was a New York resident “who, at all material times, has been licensed to practice law, and has been practicing law, in the State of California.” It was…