John Neal Griffith

PRO

John Neal Griffith

4.4
Rating: 9.6

Licensed for 16 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Carlsbad, CA
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Family, Child Custody

1525 Faraday Ave, Suite 140, Carlsbad, CA

Free Consultation

About John

Biography

Certified Family Law Specialist John Griffith offers skillful representation in Family Law

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 60%

18 years | 300 cases

60%
Child Custody 20%

18 years | 300 cases

20%
Family 20%

18 years | 300 cases

20%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2016
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2012

Licenses

Licensed in California for 16 years

State: California

Acquired: 2009

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Griffith, Young & Lass

1525 Faraday Ave, Suite 140, Carlsbad, CA, 92008

gylfamilylawfirm.com/our-attorneys/john-n-griffith-esq-cfls/

Online Presence

Other places you can find John online.

John Neal Griffith's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.4 /5.0

14 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (14) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 reviews | Family

Posted by Morgana | December 07, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Family

Amazing Legal Team!

We were referred to John Griffith, at GYL from our former Attorney. I specifically was looking for an aggressive attorney that would yield results. John, Josh and Firm performed flawlessly, and did not disappoint! Our case was complicated, and needed swift emergency action regarding child ...custody and restraining orders. John and Josh prioritized our case and executed masterfully producing life changing results for my family and I. We cannot thank John and the GYL team enough for their professionalism and attention to detail over the past several months. The way John presented our case was pure genius with meticulous preparation and deliberate action in court. Without the GYL Team we wouldn't have been able to gain full custody of our children. GYL you have truly been a godsend! Thank you very much for everything!!!

Posted by Timothy | October 26, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Family

Best of the best. Above all others as an attorney and human.

It's hard to put into words what these amazing human beings did over the course of two plus years for my custody battle. I didn't feel like I was being represented by an attorney, I felt like I was surrounded with a "family". John Griffith is a brilliant, educated, dedicated and above and beyond pass...ionate human being. All of those adjectives describe the attorney he is too. The entire office made me feel important, listened to, cared about my case and was with me every step of the way. My case was not easy. It was and is a high conflict, very complicated and dynamic child custody case. John and team expertly chewed through three lawyers that the other side presented. His paralegal (Kristin C) is no longer working for GYL but was instrumental in the case as well. Jeff was another attorney who assisted John with the case and he was an amazing asset who also helped tremendously. I can't thank John Griffith or his firm enough for the care, dedication and attention to detail they paid to my case. More importantly they are child focused and family focused. Thank you John, Catie, Amy, Jeff, Kristin, Kayla, and everyone else over there that helped me through two plus years of tough litigation. You men and women truly are the best. I would recommend this firm to anyone looking for stellar representation if they find themselves in a divorce or custody battle.

Posted by Scott | March 23, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Family

Handled business!

John represented me in a difficult child custody case. In the end, John helped me gain more custody and also identified some areas in which my previous attorney had failed to identify. The result of his representation was more custody and less support. John is great in the courtroom and presents hims...elf in a very polished and professional manner! In addition to John, his staff is on it. His office team is very responsive to needs and make sure your questions are answered. In addition to the great service, John is fair. He didn’t gouge me for every little penny. Instead, he charged me a fair price for the services he offered and even counseled me on a few things that helped me avoid additional fees. I have recommended GYL to a couple of friends and would recommend using GYL if you find yourself in the bad spot of needing a family law attorney…

Posted by Talitha | February 23, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Family

Beyond belief

I went from full custody from birth to 2014 to supervised visitations and then slowly only got my girls 2 times a month for the last 2 years. I'm a wonderful mother who needed help with alcohol abuse, admitted it and received treatment and went above what was required of me in court to prove my sobri...ety. My ex abused this power and was road blocking my relationship and communication with my girls. He had full legal and physical custody. I've had attorneys in the past that did the bare minimum but didn't give this case the voice it needed. I reluctantly hired John with the hopes that someone would listen and be the voice for the girls and myself and my other 2 daughters who lived with me full time. I knew because I had a substance abuse problem in the past that regardless of what I showed as evidence ; I wouldn't get the girls back. I was prepared for that IF AND ONLY IF I showed all my evidence and then that was decided what was in the best interest of the girls. I had over 6 years worth of evidence that overwhelmed me to even look at. It's painful to read and relive the abuse and craziness of the past. John took this case knowing that my request might be a long shot but believed in me. Agreed to make it a priority. Today, after 8 long hours- I won. I was reassured throughout the day every time john asked the questions of my ex and witnesses. He asked exactly the questions that needed to have answers. He left no stone unturned. I wasn't looking to keep my kids from their father-I fully agree that both parents need to co parent. However, it didn't matter if i was a perfect mother- my ex did not want me to have any custody. He wanted me to have 8 hours a week supervised. This was a typical what not to do custody dispute; words being thrown back and forth, accusations against me, lies and manipulation. Don't get me wrong- in your case you have to do the work. I had to make sure I met the deadlines asked of me, hand over everything I possibly could to help my case. I had to make sure that this 6 year nightmare some how made sense to an attorney. My fear was that he would take my money, do the bare minimum and call it a day. However- John was honest, hard working and made my case heard. He spoke for my children who didn't have a voice. Today was the best day. Not only did we go back to 50/50, I also was awarded the capability to have final say in legal disputes when it comes to the girls health and well being. This is unheard of in many cases. I am speechless as to what happened today. I know it was the right judgement, my friends and family know it's the right judgement. John was honest yet firm. He literally covered everything in a timely manner. In writing a review, these words don't give justice to what I have experienced in a mere 2 months. His assistant, Danielle, was amazing with handling my overabhndance of emails. It is my pleasure to be able to write a review for this attorney. I believe he saw my hard work that I've done to get back on track, realized I shouldn't be punished as a parent, did the right thing. He was professional yet approachable. He definitely is someone that I would rate a 10/10. If you have any doubts about where to put your trust and obviously hard earned money- I give you my word; this is your guy. I have felt beaten for so long by this case and to feel justice done is invigorating. It's something I had faith in but didn't know if it was possible. Today- I get to tuck in all four of my girls and know I kept my promise as a mother to always have their back, never give up and fight for what you know to be the right thing. It's priceless when I get to show them that people fall but what determines their outcome is how they get back up. So- thank you to Griffith, Young and Lass from the bottom of my heart. I've been in tears all day because I feel free of this burden. I honestly feel you were placed in my path for a reason. Without reservation I would recommend this law firm to handle your case.

Posted by Sohrab | November 24, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Family

dont waste your money here

This law firm is a total waste of money. They lied to me and told me to sign an agreement that ended up working against me. Imagine your family law attorney telling you to sign an agreement that actually has you sign away your kids and you sign it because you trust your attorney and find out a few mo...nths later that you signed a document that gave away your rights as a father. Later i brought up the issue and their response was, "it is what it is man". Don't waste a dollar on this law firm. They are a total fraud. On the morning of my case, John had his secretary contact me and say that he wont make it and another cheaper attorney would arrive. He never discounted a dollar for the cheaper attorney he replaced himeself with and he hid behind his email the entire time. He is a grown man who doesn't really behave like one. He is full of promises in the beginning and then he collects the retainer and disappears. Don't trust this guy.

See All Client Reviews

John Neal Griffith's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse John
Lisa Ann Berg headshot
Lisa Berg

Family lawyer | Apr 21

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer.John is a formidable opposing counsel, well respected in the community and a Plethora of legal knowledge"

Scott Kosner headshot
Scott Kosner

Divorce and separation lawyer | Apr 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jaime Cage headshot
Jaime Cage

Family lawyer | Mar 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jeffrey Scott Moriarty headshot
Jeffrey Moriarty

Divorce and separation lawyer | Dec 16

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"John is an intelligent attorney capable of representing his client's rights through dedication and ingenuity. As my supervising attorney, I worked closely with him on a daily basis. His passion for his clients was infectious."

James Nelson Dicks headshot
James Dicks

Family lawyer | Nov 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"This attorney works very hard for the clients and keeps up with the law by attending legal seminars to assist them in this regard. I endorse this attorney."

Michael Shemtoub headshot
Michael Shemtoub

Divorce and separation lawyer | Sep 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Your resume speaks for itself and I consider you a valuable member of the attorney community. I would recommend you to anyone and everyone who needs your services. I whole heartedly endorse this lawyer!"

Tyler Robert Campbell headshot
Tyler Campbell

Family lawyer | Jul 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John is always the first person on my family law referral list. He is highly organized, competent and zealously fights to achieve the most favorable outcome for each and every one of his clients. He is well respected in the legal community among his clients, peers and colleagues alike. I strongly endorsement this lawyer."

Sameera Chehab headshot
Sameera Chehab

Family lawyer | Mar 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

George L. Aldrich headshot
George Aldrich

Family lawyer | Nov 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Daniel Seth Williams headshot
Daniel Williams

Family lawyer | Oct 16

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. I highly recommend John Griffith for your family law matters. He is attentive, knowledgeable, and if you have a matter involving the military, he is your guy."

Isileli Tupou Manaia Mataele headshot
Isileli Mataele

Family lawyer | Dec 12

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Steven Francis Schroeder headshot
Steven Schroeder

Tax lawyer | Nov 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have reviewed this attorneys answers on AVVO and they are informative and accurate."

Matthew J. Mesnik headshot
Matthew Mesnik

Family lawyer | Oct 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Griffith is a very dedicated and passionate Family Law attorney. Mr. Griffith is also very honest. I have no doubts Mr. Griffith will treat a client fairly and get them through a divorce or custody disagreement with the utmost professionalism and passion. Each time I have Mr. Griffith as the opposing counsel on a case I am relieved knowing that he will be reasonable and professional and will work with me to try to resolve the issues that are in disagreement. Anyone should feel comfortable hiring Mr. Griffith to represent them in their family law case knowing they will be well represented."

View All Endorsements
Isileli Tupou Manaia Mataele headshot
Isileli Mataele

Family lawyer

Matthew J. Mesnik headshot
Matthew Mesnik

Divorce and separation lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.6 (Superb)

Honors

2019

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2018

Certified Specialist - Family Law, State Bar of California

2018

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2016

Top 10 Attorneys, National Academy Of Family Law Attorneys

2008

Pro Bono Honors Recipient, Thomas Jefferson School of Law

2005

Achievement Medal, U.S. Army

Work Experience

2013 - Present

Owner, Griffith, Young & Lass

2010 - 2011

Partner, The Edmunds Law Firm

Associations

2015 - Present

California Board of Legal Specialization

Family Law Certified Specialist

2009 - Present

San Diego County Bar Association

Member

2009 - Present

State Bar of California

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

RETROACTIVE CHILD SUPPORT AND SPOUSAL SUPPORT MODFICATION ERASES $30,000 IN ARREARS

$30,000 ruling

SUCCESSFUL DEFENSE OF FALSE ALLEGATIONS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

In favor of Client

MOTION TO EXPUNGE GRANTED IN HEAVILY LITIGATED SAN DIEGO DIVORCE CASE​

In favor of client

MOTION TO QUASH GRANTED IN ABUSIVE DISCOVERY CASE

CHILD CUSTODY AND VISITATION

Child Custody order for client

EMERGENCY CHILD CUSTODY ORDERS

Emergency Child Custody Orders Obtained

CHILD SUPPORT AND SPOUSAL SUPPORT ORDERS

Favorable orders for client

DIVORCE SETTLEMENT

Successfull Settlement

OMMITED ASSET AND ENFORCEMENT OF JUDGMENT

Favorable Family Court ruling

See More Legal Cases

Education

2008

Thomas Jefferson School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2003

Georgia State University

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Languages

English

Activity

Top Contributor

John earned significant contribution points in 2012.

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