A combination of the Very High General Ethical Standards Rating and a Legal Ability Rating determines the Peer Review Rating, which includes an average numeric rating, a rating term, and may include a certification mark:

AV® Preeminent™ (4.5-5.0)
BV® Distinguished™ (3.0-4.4)
Rated (1.0-2.9)

Legal Ability Ratings take into consideration the standard of professional ability in the area where the lawyer practices, their expertise, and their qualifications in certain other areas.

The General Ethical Standards Rating "V" denotes adherence to professional standards of conduct, ethics, diligence and relevant criteria relating to professional responsibilities. A lawyer will not receive a Legal Ability Rating unless they have been endorsed for a "V" rating.

For more information on Martindale-Hubbell Ratings, visit the Martindale-Hubbell website.