The Porter Scott Story

A core belief that began in Sacramento and shaped us into a trusted legal partner.

  • Where we started.

    In 1976, Russell Porter, Irv Scott, Ned Weiberg, and John Delehant set out to build something different. As accomplished trial attorneys at established Sacramento law firms, they saw a growing disconnect between clients and their counsel. Law firms had become focused on billable hours rather than genuine relationships.

    They founded Porter Scott on a simple but powerful belief: clients should be treated like family, and exceptional service and results should always come first.

    Nearly five decades later, that founding philosophy still guides us. We’ve grown from four attorneys and a law clerk into one of the region’s most respected civil litigation firms, representing public and private clients throughout California. Our success is built on trust, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

  • Where we are now.

    Clients value our practical, cost-effective approach to litigation — whether that means early resolution or taking a case to verdict. Our professionalism, civility, and integrity have earned us Martindale-Hubbell AV ratings and recognition in elite organizations such as the American Board of Trial Advocates and the American College of Trial Lawyers.

    Today, under the leadership of Managing Shareholder Carl Fessenden and Board Members David Melton, Jonathan Corr, and Chad Tapp, Porter Scott continues to uphold the vision of its founders: delivering outstanding advocacy with honesty, respect, and genuine partnership.

    Welcome to the Porter Scott family — where results matter, relationships endure, and integrity leads the way.

  • Our Impact along the way.

    Over the past 50 years, we have proudly served as a trusted legal shield for thousands of businesses. We stand firmly by our clients, defending their interests diligently and with unwavering commitment throughout every step of the legal process. The results we achieve consistently speak volumes about our dedication, professionalism, and extensive expertise.

    However, we believe the key to being a successful business goes beyond our legal successes; being an active and engaged part of the community is just as important as defending clients. Our philanthropy program means offering genuine help, support, and resources to those in need. Porter Scott is honored to stand alongside and support valued organizations that make a real difference.


The Founding Partners

PORTER, SCOTT, WEIBERG & DELEHANT

Pictured from left to right: Perence J. Cassidy, Craig A. Caldwell, John W. Delehant, Ned P. Telford, James K. Mirabell, Edwin T. Weiberg, A. Irving Scott, Russell G. Porter, and Anthony S. Warburg.