Craig Trent Byrnes

Craig Trent Byrnes

4.7
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 26 years

Wrongful termination Lawyer at Hermosa Beach, CA
Practice Areas: Wrongful Termination, Discrimination, Employment & Labor ... +2 more

2447 Pacific Coast Highway, 2nd Floor, #373, Hermosa Beach, CA

About Craig

Biography

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer


Looking for an attorney? Avvo can help.

search module image

Search our directory

Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.

chat module image

Avvo's live chat agents can help coordinate a consultation with a local attorney.

Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.

Chat with

Licenses

Licensed in California for 26 years

State: California

Acquired: 1999

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Law Office Of Craig T Byrnes

2447 Pacific Coast Highway, 2nd Floor, #373, Hermosa Beach, CA, 90245

Ad

Transform legal challenges into solutions.

Connect now to review your situation.

The Avvo Rating explained

display-bg

The Avvo Rating explained

Craig Trent Byrnes's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.7 /5.0

12 Client Reviews

5 star (11)
4 star (0)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (1)

Posted by anonymous | November 4, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

WARNING: Please Read Before Hiring

I’m writing this so others don’t go through what I did. My experience with attorney Craig Byrnes was defined by dishonesty, misrepresentation, and a complete lack of accountability. I hired Craig to represent me in a pregnancy discrimination case that should have been handled with care, integrity,... and professionalism. Instead, he made false statements to opposing counsel and completely misrepresented my story and position. When I questioned him, he brushed me off or claimed to be “confused” about key facts that we had discussed many times before, both verbally and in writing. I have written proof showing he knew exactly what he was doing. The most serious issue was his attempt to fraudulently join a person into my case who was never involved. He added this individual’s name to filings even after I told him in writing that the person had nothing to do with my claims. Craig assured me this was “normal legal practice” and not malpractice. When that decision backfired, instead of being honest with the court and admitting his mistake, he blamed me — his own client — rather than taking responsibility for his actions. That moment made it clear that he was willing to sacrifice the truth and his client’s credibility to protect himself. As the case continued, Craig concealed updates, delayed communication, and made unauthorized decisions that destroyed my case. What should have been a straightforward pregnancy discrimination claim was derailed beyond repair, and no other attorney wanted to take it on after reviewing the filings he created. His misconduct didn’t just hurt my case; it ended it. It is frightening how easily a lawyer can behave this way without oversight or consequences. If you are seeking legal help, especially for something as serious and personal as workplace discrimination or pregnancy-related mistreatment, go to a firm where attorneys are SUPERVISED and held accountable. Do not trust a solo attorney like Craig Byrnes, who can act dishonestly and recklessly without any oversight. No woman should have to experience discrimination and then be betrayed again by the attorney hired to help her. Dishonesty has no place in the legal profession, and I am currently working with the State Bar of California to hold him accountable.

Posted by Diana | June 3, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Wrongful Termination Lawsuit

I found Craig through Avvo after he answered one of my legal questions, and I’m so glad I reached out to him for advice. He scheduled a call and listened to my story from beginning to end. I trusted him completely to take over my case. Craig is direct and doesn’t sugarcoat anything which was exact...ly what I needed. I knew he would fight for me and prioritize my best interests. Thanks to his guidance, I was able to make the best decision for myself and my case.

Posted by anonymous | December 17, 2022 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Incredible Legal Representation

Craig Byrnes is incredible. I found Craig after I sought legal representation after my employer presented me with a difficult situation. He was so responsive, knowledgeable, and clear in his approach to protect my interests. Craig is adept at filtering out ethical or emotional issues from legal iss...ues, and does not waste time on futile matters. He is extremely efficient and does not sugarcoat anything. He is great at client management too, keeping me focused on the task at hand and talking sense into me when needed. Craig was able to reach an amicable resolution with my employer to end the situation gracefully and rationally. I don't know if anyone has referred to their attorney as a knight in shining armor, but he is definitely that. I highly recommend him to anyone - you want him on your side.

Posted by Patty | November 7, 2022 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Best Attorney Around

I cannot explain the great help Craig was to me in my case. He picked up the dirty work another attorney left behind, In no time he had answers for me, that he explained in great detail until I was on board with understanding the big picture. He is extraordinary and professional. Craig kept me in the... loop every step of the way, and unlike other attorneys, he never mentioned time spent on the phone nor email exchanges, he doesn't make it about money. He truly cares about his clients and makes time for them. I am beyond happy with the settlement he obtained, and would highly recommend Craig to anyone looking for an honest, professional, experienced and empathetic attorney. If ever there is need of representation again, I would not think twice to call on Craig, the relationship we built and advised he gave me has helped me lifelong.

Posted by Mary | August 10, 2021 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Exceptional representation: Hard working, knowledgeable, effective

Mr. Byrnes served me twice. I first met him when searching for an employment lawyer because I wanted a contract if I was to leave my job to go help prospective employer with their business. I was leaving a highly paid job and wanted both sides to be clear as to what we agreed to. Once the contract w...as signed and I resigned my other job, my employer refused to pay me what was agreed to in the contract. Mr. Byrnes provided excellent advice throughout the whole mess, was strategic in his approach, and was far more knowledgeable that some of the lawyers the employer hired (employer went through about 3 lawyers before finally settling). Mr. Byrnes got me a big settlement. I cannot say enough positive things about Mr. Byrnes. His professionalism is outstanding. He prepared for the case so thoroughly that no matter what opposing lawyers might throw at us, he always responded with facts and law, so they stopped arguing with him. I wouldn't want to have to be on the other side in a case he was involved with. He always told me the truth, explained the law and how judges were ruling on various points, and he listened to my concerns with great sensitivity. Anyone who has an employment law issue can do no better than turning to Craig Byrnes. Ultimately, he stood strong for me and obtained a big settlement for me.

See All Client Reviews

Craig Trent Byrnes's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Craig
Eric A. Panitz headshot
Eric Panitz

Employment and labor lawyer | Dec 18

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I strongly endorse attorney Craig Byrnes. He is skilled, focused, and unrelenting in getting the highest possible value for his clientele. I frequently work with him on employment law cases. Mr. Byrnes is a knowledgeable and ethical peer."

James Wilson Johnston headshot
James Johnston

Employment and labor lawyer | Apr 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've know Craig for years. He is one of the most experienced employment lawyers in Southern California. Any client would be in good hands with Craig."

Julie Fowler headshot
Julie Fowler

Discrimination lawyer | Jul 08

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael Zoldan headshot
Michael Zoldan

Employment and labor lawyer | Feb 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sean Cleary headshot
Sean Cleary

Personal injury lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A brilliant, trustworthy and highly respected attorney in the legal community."

Natasha Rebecca Chesler headshot
Natasha Chesler

Employment and labor lawyer | Sep 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Personal injury lawyer | Jun 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Craig. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Scott Allen Miller headshot
Scott Miller

Class action lawyer | Jun 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Byrnes has been generous with his time in answering questions on Avvo. I have reviewed a number of those answers. He is an experienced and able attorney. I endorse Mr. Byrnes."

Neil Pedersen headshot
Neil Pedersen

Employment and labor lawyer | May 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have read dozens of Craig's responses to questions here on AVVO and I have been impressed with his knowledge and ability to communicate. I have now had the chance to meet Craig. He demonstrates everything that a person should want in a lawyer. He is personable, witty, knowledgeable and has an outstanding grasp of the law and procedure in the employment law field. I do not endorse too many lawyers on this site. I can unreservedly say that you would be well served to have Craig as your lawyer and you should seriously consider him if you have an employment law need."

David Herman Hirsch headshot
David Hirsch

Unknown lawyer | Jan 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I frequently read and agree with answers Mr. Byrnes posts on Avvo. He is a dedicated and skillful attorney who gives thoughtful and insightful guidance in his Avvo answers. Mr. Byrnes is a valued member of the Avvo community who is generous in sharing his time and expertise by spending considerable time participating on this site. It is my pleasure to endorse him."

Carl Andrew Botterud headshot
Carl Botterud

Wrongful termination lawyer | Nov 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Ramit Mizrahi headshot
Ramit Mizrahi

Employment and labor lawyer | Oct 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Craig is smart, tenacious, and truly committed to employee rights! I would not hesitate to refer a friend to him because I know that his clients are in good hands."

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Unknown lawyer | Sep 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."

M. Todd Miller headshot
M. Miller

Contracts and agreements lawyer | Jul 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

John Noah Kitta headshot
John Kitta

Employment and labor lawyer | Apr 24

Relationship: Other

"I endorse Craig Trent Byrnes. Mr. Byrnes has excellent communication skills and he takes the information provided by the individual requesting advisement, and concisely provides what valid legal opinion a well-experienced attorney could provide with the limited of information given. He seems to be a straight up no nonsense attorney, and I would not hesitate to recommend him for individuals with employment and labor problems in the Manhattan Beach area for legal advisement."

Calvin B. Chang headshot
Calvin Chang

Employment and labor lawyer | Mar 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

David Andrew Mallen headshot
David Mallen

Employment and labor lawyer | Jan 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Byrnes is one of the Rising Stars of employment law in Southern California. Unlike many other "paper tiger" lawyers, Mr. Byrnes can and will take cases to trial, and win. He is also extremely creative and an all-around decent human being who cares about the case and sees employment issues from both sides. It is my pleasure to endorse this outsanding attorney and fellow alumni from The Ohio State University College of Law."

Howard M Lewis headshot
Howard Lewis

Wrongful termination lawyer | Dec 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Byrnes is an outstanding attorney with an exceptional reputation. He is a strong and zealous advocate for his clients and a credit to the legal profession. I highly recommend his legal services."

John Michael Phillips headshot
John Phillips

Unknown lawyer | Dec 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Attorney Byrnes. From his answers and time on Avvo, it is clear he is dedicated to serving those in need and his clients. It's rare that lawyers spend so much valuable time helping the community, for free, and I applaud him for doing it to such a great level. Kudos."

James P. Frederick headshot
James Frederick

Contracts and agreements lawyer | Nov 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the opportunity to review a number of Mr. Byrnes responses to Avvo questions and his answers not only reflect a complete understanding of applicable laws, but also a desire to provide helpful and practical information. I have learned a great deal about California employment law from him. I am happy to endorse Mr. Byrnes and his services. James Frederick"

View All Endorsements
Eric A. Panitz headshot
Eric Panitz

Employment and labor lawyer

Christa Riggins headshot
Christa Riggins

Employment and labor lawyer

James Wilson Johnston headshot
James Johnston

Employment and labor lawyer

David Villar Patton headshot
David Patton

Appeals lawyer

Marc Hannan Phelps headshot
Marc Phelps

Employment and labor lawyer

Natasha Rebecca Chesler headshot
Natasha Chesler

Employment and labor lawyer

Samuel Jay Wells Jr headshot
Samuel Wells

Employment and labor lawyer

Ramit Mizrahi headshot
Ramit Mizrahi

Employment and labor lawyer

Christian Tong-Song Kim headshot
Christian Kim

Criminal defense lawyer

David Lee Rice headshot
David Rice

Tax lawyer

David Andrew Mallen headshot
David Mallen

Employment and labor lawyer

Kristine S Karila headshot
Kristine Karila

Employment and labor lawyer

Neil Pedersen headshot
Neil Pedersen

Employment and labor lawyer

Michael Charles Doland headshot
Michael Doland

Employment and labor lawyer

Marilynn Mika Spencer headshot
Marilynn Mika Spencer

Employment and labor lawyer

Gail Aviva Glick headshot
Gail Glick

Employment and labor lawyer

Jeffrey Keith Winikow headshot
Jeffrey Winikow

Employment and labor lawyer

Marvin Edward Krakow headshot
Marvin Krakow

Employment and labor lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2021

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2020

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2019

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2017

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

AV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2016

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2015

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2014

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2013

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2012

Super Lawyer, Los Angeles Lawyer Magazine

2011

Superlawyer, Los Angeles Lawyer Magazine

2011

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2010

Superlawyer, Los Angeles Lawyer Magazine

2010

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2009

Rising Star Super Lawyer, Los Angeles Lawyer Magazine

2008

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2008

Rising Star Super Lawyer, Los Angeles Lawyer Magazine

2007

Profiled by This Week at Moritz, This Week at Moritz e-magazine

2007

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2007

Rising Star Super Lawyer, Los Angeles Lawyer Magazine

2006

Rising Star Super Lawyer, Los Angeles Lawyer Magazine

2006

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

1999

Graduated with Honors, The Ohio State University College of Law

1999

Public Interest Fellow, The Ohio State University College of Law

1999

Order of the Coif, The Ohio State University COL

1998

Associate Editor, Law Review, The Ohio State University College of Law

Work Experience

2001 - Present

Sole Proprietor, The Law Offices of Craig T. Byrnes

Associations

2007 - Present

American Bar Association

Member

2003 - Present

California Employment Lawyers Association

Member

2000 - Present

LEFTJAW

Member

2000 - Present

Los Angeles County Bar Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Cordero-Sacks v. Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles

Jury verdict for Plaintiff

Robinson-McKoy v. APX Express

Settled

Thompson v. Impaxx

Confidential

See More Legal Cases

Education

N/A

Ohio State Univ COL

N/A

Harvey Mudd Coll

Speaking Engagements

2007

Nuts and Bolts of Employment Law

Retaliation under the Fair Employment & Housing Act

2004

Monthly Meeting

The anti-SLAPP motion

Publications

1998

Yale Journal of Law and Feminism Mens Rea, Force, and the Crime of Rape

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution