England-based Excello Law has established its first US office in Santa Barbara, California, led by veteran litigator J. Paul Gignac. Despite initial plans to open in San Francisco, the firm accommodated Gignac’s preference to remain in Santa Barbara, where he has lived for 30 years.
Gignac, who previously ran his own practice and was a partner at Rimon PC, brings extensive experience in real estate litigation, intellectual property, entertainment law, trusts and estates, and class actions.
The firm, founded in 2009 with over 200 attorneys globally, plans a methodical expansion along the West Coast with additional offices planned for San Francisco and Los Angeles. Excello differentiates itself with a higher compensation model for partners compared to traditional law firms and offers an international presence with offices in England and Dubai.
Gignac emphasized the firm’s commitment to deliberate growth, noting they’ve maintained empty office spaces to avoid rushed hiring decisions. The Santa Barbara office, located on State Street in the historic El Paseo district, currently houses Gignac and his assistant but can accommodate up to six attorneys.