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Sam Spital is a former California Deputy Attorney General, handling over 50 Criminal Appeals to the California and U.S. Supreme Court. During that period of time, Sam was supervised by Senior Deputy Attorneys General (some of whom had gone on to become Judges in California), including the most recent Chief Justice Ron George of the California Supreme Court.
Also, in his capacity as a DAG, Sam prosecuted countless Administrative Law State Board professional licensing matters for nearly every Board, Bureau and Department in California, including the Medical Board, Board of Registered Nursing, Dental Board, Board of Accountancy, Board of Behavioral Sciences, Board of Pharmacy, Board of Psychology, Physical Therapy Board, Board of Optometry, Board of Veterinary Medicine, Board of Professional Engineers, Contractors' State License Board, Bureau of Automotive Repair, Department of Real Estate and the Department of Health.
In 1978, Sam started his own Law Firm, with 7 offices, a team of 10 lawyers and nearly 50 employees handling over 10,000 cases. Also, Sam served as a San Diego Deputy Probation Officer (2001-2002), preparing criminal sentence reports for Superior Court. The firm limits its focus and specializes in identifiable practice areas.
Sam has written numerous published articles in local, statewide and national publications, as well as been invited to lecture both inside California as well as in other states.
The law firm's relentless focus is on its clients and their needs and desires. This continues to be the paradigm for the law firm, over any monetary compensation. The motto is: "A Law Firm that Cares!"
On August 13, 2008, Fox Channel 5 News invited Sam to be a Legal Commentator on the morning news program.
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Practice Areas
55 years | 6,000 cases
55 years | 11,000 cases
55 years | 7,000 cases
56 years | 4,000 cases
Free Consultation
$0 first 60 minutes
Always
State: California
Acquired: 1971
No misconduct found
585 Third Avenue, Chula Vista, CA, 91910
spitalaw.com/
Other places you can find Samuel online.
Showing 1 - 5 of 277 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Matt | March 7, 2026 | Hired Attorney
Samuel Spital is, without exaggeration, the most exceptional licensing attorney. After searching for months, I turned to him in a situation that could have permanently damaged my career, reputation, and ability to practice. The stakes were immense. Samuel approached my case with a level of precision,...
Matt, I greatly appreciate your thoughtful review regarding your experience with my law firm. Feedback such as yours helps other licensed professionals make informed decisions when selecting legal counsel. It was a sincere privilege to represent you, and I remain grateful for the trust and confidence you placed in the methodology we outlined and the strategy we implemented on your behalf. Your consistent communication throughout the process also played an important role in the successful outcome. As you noted, we remained personally available to address your questions throughout the matter, and we prepared an extensive written presentation advocating your position. Our approach is always to present a carefully reasoned and credible argument supported by the facts and the client’s professional history. Your character, accomplishments, and commitment to your profession were fundamental to our comprehensive legal presentation on your behalf. Matt, please never hesitate to contact us if you have a question in the future. I wish you continued success and fulfillment in the years ahead. Sincerely, Sam Spital
Posted by Robyn | February 6, 2026 | Hired Attorney
Sam represented me regarding my early termination of probation on my professional RN license after I got in trouble at work and was reported to the BRN. He carefully guided me as to all communications with the state licensing board and the Petition process, and the result is my probation is successf...
Posted by Irene | December 19, 2025 | Consulted Attorney
Trillion stars. Highly recommended. Mr Spital is a gem of humankind, he is light in the dark, he is not only the best attorney you can get, he champions the cause of his clients because that’s what he does. He selflessly helps. He has a gift that is uncommon in attorneys and humans, he does care an...
Posted by anonymous | October 6, 2025 | Consulted Attorney
Had a phone call with this attorney. Though we did not move forward with the matter, he was extremely informative. It is a rarity to have the actual attorney pick up the phone these days, let alone over the weekend.
Thank you for the kind words. You can have a Free preliminary Attorney teleconference during our hours, seven days a week, between 8:30 a.m. -and- 8:30 p.m.. In addition and by appointment, we will gladly schedule a mutually convenient range of time. Our Managing Lawyer, Sam Spital, enjoys the opportunity to pick up the phone and hear your concern(s) and legal issue(s), particularly if it encompasses our practice areas as set forth on the AVVO "profile" page. We treat what others call a case as our "CAUSE," which is our commitment and purpose aligned with the scope of legal services you desire, protecting your rights and advancing your legal interests. Call 619.583.0350 -or- send an email now to [email protected]
Posted by Judy | August 25, 2025 | Hired Attorney
I had a very difficult case with the BRN. Attorney Sam Spital and attorney Elizabeth Brady worked tirelessly and professionally from day one. I switched from another lawyer who I didn't receive much advice or support to Sam Spital. He provided me with very concise legal advice before I even signed on...
Judy, we do NOT practice law for the money as that does not motivate us. It comes down to fulfilling clients' dreams. We choose to go beyond the role of an ordinary attorney. Our experience and the content of our character are unequaled. We are available seven days a week and take great pride in leveling the playing field. Not only react to the opposition, but we are proactive, and fiercely competitive. Our lengthy and compelling written arguments produce the ultimate reward. We change the trajectory; we do NOT take cases, we take on “causes” with clients' best interest at stake. Our clients get to decide “who they are “ and not be defined by what others think. As such, clients may not have to go to court to win. Judy, we appreciate your trust and confidence. Thank you very much, Sam
"I endorse Sam Spital. He is my go to referral for my clients who need assistance with their professional license during or after a criminal case. He truly works tirelessly for his clients and there is no greater endorsement than that."
"I have had the opportunity to work with Sam Spital on a number of federal cases. Sam is a step above attorneys I have worked with and in particular, the recent Sinaloa cartel case he and I litigated in federal court this year. His wisdom and experience helped me to negotiate a terrific outcome this case in particular involving over 500 kilos of cocaine distributed over the course of a couple of years.. When it comes to prosecutors, it seems that Sam knows a little about each one - or their supervisor! And in regards to judges, I think they respect him as one of their peers. Sam's knowledge of the legal community together with experience in how to deal with almost any legal issue makes him my "go to" lawyer when I am developing a strategy in federal cases. I consider myself lucky to work with Sam whenever he associates me on a criminal case."
"I am comfortable endorsing Sam Spital based on his command of a practice area in which issues can be very subtle and good solutions can be anti-intuitive. His handling of issues within the relevant context demonstrates a very genuine concern for the client."
"I am an attorney who contacted Sam Spital re a pending Nursing Board matter. Although necessarily general, his advice and practical suggestions were given encouragingly. He did not rush through the call and was friendly, warm and professional. He was willing to guide me to resolve a tricky situation. I am grateful for his practical advice."
"My normal endorsement of fellow Avvo attorneys is not sufficient for Mr. Spital. For me, he has expertise and clarity of expressoin that not only clients, but also attorneys, should benefit from."
"Extremely knowledgeable and tenacious attorney. I conferenced a unusual matter with him and received helpful advice."
"I am also an attorney and I called Mr Spital to consult on one of the most complex cases in my career, involving a medical license revocation that we are fighting in federal court with a Writ of Mandamus. I called Sam for a second opinion as he has dealt in so many of these cases. Considering the fact that the case is multi-dimensional, multi-layered and extremely complex, I was impressed with the fact that in a few moments Sam had his arms around it and understood the salient facts of the case and what it was that we were trying to achieve. He shared his experiences and knowledge with me and genuinely cared and did everything he could do to help a fellow lawyer. Sam really cares about clients and about getting the job done. An impressive lawyer and human being. Steven Riznyk Lead Attorney San Diego Biz Law"
"Mr. Spital is an extremely experienced and knowledgeable attorney. I had the pleasure of working with him to help with a complex medical administrative law matter. He comes highly recommended!!"
"Sam is very knowledgeable in the area of administrative law,. I have consulted with him on two cases, one involving a nursing license and another involving the revocation of an insurance license. He was generouse with his time and provided guidance to me in a professional and helpful manner. I endorse this lawyer."
"It's always a breath of fresh air to talk to a colleague who is passionate about fighting for his clients. Anyone who knows me knows that I don't hand out endorsements willy-nilly. I've deleted endorsements given to me by lawyers who know nothing about me, and reamed them for it. But THIS guy! Totally impressed by his knowledge, his spirit, and the advice that he gave when I consulted with him on the potential licensing issues in a criminal case that I was handling. THANK YOU, MR. SPITAL, for your drive, your enthusiasm, and your willingness to work with me on this."
"I worked with Sam on a matter. He provided the requisite knowledge, experience, insight, direction and strategy on a Board of Pharmacy case for which I was retained. He is a preeminent lawyer, and I am proud to have worked with Sam."
"An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible.I endorse this lawyer."
"Samuel is an exceptional criminal defense attorney whose reputation speaks for itself. Recommended with complete confidence."
"Sam is an excellent attorney, who I highly recommend to anyone, either as a colleague or client. I e-mailed Sam with a question about the hearing process for the Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists. He called me back immediately and spent a significant amount of time explaining the process and answering my questions in a helpful, informative and professional manner. I am happy to have Sam as a colleague and resource."
"I endorse this lawyer. Sam is smart and caring. He knows how to look at the big picture and then navigate the best course to resolve the matter."
"Sam is very knowledgeable in the area of administrative law, specifically in the rules and regulations surrounding the California Board of Registered Nursing. He takes the time to inform and answer questions from other attorneys in need of assistance in a professional and helpful manner."
"A former Deputy Attorney General with the Department of Justice with 44 years of experience practicing law is what you want representing you. Knowledge of the law and procedure is beyond excellent and evident in his pro bono contributions. Client reviews are a reflection of what results he has achieved and here the clients have spoken loud and clear. Their judgement is stellar. READ THEM! Endorsements from his fellow attorneys are also outstanding. Do yourself a favor and schedule a consultation with him first if you won't settle for anything but the best. If your lucky he might just agree to represent you. KUDOS"
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2025
2025 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, AVVO
2025
2025 "GOLD CLIENT CHAMPION" Award, Martindale-Hubbell®
2024
2024 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2024
2024 "GOLD CLIENT CHAMPION" Award, Martindale-Hubbell®
2023
2023 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2023
2023 "GOLD CLIENT CHAMPION" Award, Martindale-Hubbell®
2022
2022 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2022
2022 "GOLD CLIENT CHAMPION" Award, Martindale-Hubbell®
2021
2021 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2021
2021 "GOLD CLIENT CHAMPION" Award, Martindale-Hubbell®
2020
2020 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2020
2020 "GOLD CLIENT CHAMPION" Award, Martindale-Hubbell®
2019
2019 "GOLD CLIENT CHAMPION" Award, Martindale-Hubbell®
2019
2019 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2018
2018 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2017
2017 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2016
"CLIENT DISTINCTIOIN" Award, Martindale.com
2016
2016 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2015
2014 Best Attorney San Diego, Kudzu, a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises
2015
2015 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2014
2014 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2013
"SUPERB" Rated Attorney, Avvo
2013
2013 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2013
2013 Distinguished Faculty Award, Lorman Education Services
2012
2012 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2012
2012 Best Attorneys San Diego, Kudzu, a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises
2011
40 Year Anniversay, Martindale-Hubbell®
2011
2011 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2010
2010 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2009
2009 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2008
2008 "#1 Client's Choice" Award, Avvo
2007
2007 "#1 Client's Choice" Avvo NationalAward (Inaugural Year), Avvo
1980
Certificate of Appreciation, UCSD School of Medicine
1969
American Jurisprudence Award, Bancroft-Whitney
1978 - Present
Managing Attorney, SPITAL AND ASSOCIATES
2001 - 2002
Deputy Probation Officer, County of San Diego
1970 - 1978
Deputy Attorney General, CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
2012 - Present
The American Association of Nurse AttorneysAttorney Member
2010 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember
2004 - Present
State Bar of CaliforniaSpecial Master
1994 - Present
American Society of Law, Medicine and EthicsMember
1978 - Present
Supreme Court of the United States of AmericaPracticing Attorney
1978 - Present
United States Tax CourtPracticing Attorney
1971 - Present
United States Court of Appeals For the Ninth CircuitPracticing Attorney
1971 - Present
United States District Court for the Central District of CaliforniaPracticing Attorney
1971 - Present
United States District Court for the Southern District of CaliforniaPracticing Attorney
1971 - Present
Supreme Court of CaliforniaMember
1971 - Present
State Bar of CaliforniaMember
1989 - 2005
American Trial Lawyers AssociationMember
1987 - 1989
California Trial Lawyers AssociationSustaining Member
1971 - 1995
American Bar AssociationMember
Board Investigation Closed with no Discipline, no adverse action, no written record
Physician's License Grated without any restrictions, no terms and no conditions
Dentist License Granted
No charges filed
Accusation dismissed and no disciplinary action on record
Accusation dismissed and no public record of disciplinary action
Public Reprimand
Respiratory Therapist License Granted
Accusation Dismissed
Investigation Closed: N0 Discipline Imposed
Investigation Closed With No Disciplinary Action Filed
Public Reproval
Physical Therapy Board of California closed case with no disciplinary action taken.
Letter of Public Reproval Issued
BRN Complaint closed - No action Taken
PTBC closed case with no disciplinary action
Complaint closed without merit.
Public Reproval
Complaint closed with merit.
BRN Investigation Closed. No Public Record. No Disciplinary Action.
investigation and complaint were closed without merit.
All Charges Dismissed - Complaint Withdrawn from Public Records
Investigation Closed - No public record of disciplinary action filed
Public Reprimand
Accusation Withdrawn - No Disciplinary record
Investigation Closed - No public record of disciplinary action filed
Chiropractic License Granted
Revocation Stayed - 3 years probation
Probation
Probation - 5 years
3 Years Probation (No outright Revocation)
License not revoked
Non-Disciplinary Action Issued: Citation
Case resolved, client paid nothing
Court of Appeal affirmed Superior Court
Clarified definition: Gross Negligence & Damages
On the People's appeal, Appellate Court reversed.
Court of Appeal reversed Trial Court
Court of Appeal affirmed conviction.
Dentist License granted
License Granted without any terms, restrictions or conditions.
Complaint dismissed and case closed
Accusation Withdrawn, No Discipline on Record
No Disciplinary Action - Investigation Closed
Investigation & Complaint Closed - No Merit
DUI reduced to "Reckless Driving"
Physical Therapist can continue practice
License granted
Reduced to Trespass after 18 months
Probation granted
DUI Case Dismissed
Public Reprimand Only
Restricted Real Estate Salesperson License Issued
Case settled
Sentence of "25 years to Life" not imposed
1998
American Arbitration Association Graduate Certificate
1970
JD - Juris Doctor
1966
BA
2024
2024 Essentials of Practicing Law: From Loyola Univrsity Law School -to- Deputy Attorney General, Calif. Dept. of Justice -to- Spital and Associates, Private Practice
2014
Legal Principles of Safe & Competent Nursing
2012
2012
2011
2009
Mortgages and Renegotiation - Bank of America aquisition of Countrywide Financial Corp.
2008
Murder Arraignment
2008
The Important Questions to Ask when Choosing an Attorney
2006
Legal & Ethical Considerations; School Responsibilities
2005
Legal Research; Developments in the Law
1982
California Dept.of Motor Vehicles Investigations
1980
New Trends in Long-Term Care
1980
Medical Board Disciplinary Actions
2024
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English
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