John Charles Dalton Griffin

John Griffin is a trial lawyer known for delivering strategic, results-driven advocacy in high-stakes cases. Licensed in Texas and Louisiana, John represents individuals and businesses facing complex legal challenges, with a practice focused on criminal defense, personal injury, medical malpractice, and sophisticated civil litigation.

John is a relentless advocate for clients accused of criminal offenses in both state and federal courts. He has successfully defended clients at every stage of the process—from pre-indictment intervention, including preparation of persuasive grand jury materials designed to prevent charges altogether, to jury trials and appellate proceedings. With extensive trial experience and a deep understanding of the law’s nuances, John provides a powerful defense against the full weight of government prosecution. His experience spans a wide range of matters, including homicide and other violent offenses, white-collar crimes, DWI, and drug-related charges.

In addition to his criminal defense practice, John represents individuals and families in serious personal injury and medical malpractice cases. Having previously represented insurance companies and defendants, John brings a unique, strategic advantage to his clients—anticipating and countering the tactics used by the other side. He now exclusively advocates for injured clients, fighting to secure justice and full compensation for harm caused by negligence.

John also maintains a robust civil litigation practice, handling complex disputes involving construction law, oil and gas matters, commercial and business litigation, and trust and probate conflicts. He has represented contractors, developers, and property owners in high-value construction disputes, including contract defaults, defective workmanship claims, surety bond issues, payment disputes, mechanic’s liens, Miller Act claims, and delay-related damages. He also handles select high-asset divorce matters where strategic litigation is critical.
John earned his Juris Doctor from the Paul M. Hebert Law Center at Louisiana State University, where he distinguished himself in both intra-school and national mock trial and moot court competitions and served as a member of the Board of Advocates.

He began his legal career with the Caddo Parish Public Defender’s Office, where he gained significant courtroom experience and secured multiple not guilty verdicts in jury and bench trials. He later practiced at firms in Lafayette and Shreveport, handling insurance defense, personal injury, and complex commercial litigation matters, further refining his trial skills and strategic approach.

John ultimately brought his experience to Tyler, where he co-founded Melton & Griffin, PLLC with his wife, Allison Melton-Griffin. Together, they are committed to protecting the rights of the accused, advocating for the injured, and guiding clients through complex legal disputes with clarity, strength, and unwavering dedication.