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Patrick M Griffin

Criminal defense Attorney at San Diego, CA

5.0   26 reviews

also known as Griffin Law Office, APC

  • Licensed for 12 years
    State CA
    Acquired 2011
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Patrick

Learn Patrick’s areas of practice.

Award winning San Diego Criminal Defense & DUI Attorney Patrick Griffin was raised in a large family in a rural Montana community where he learned the value of hard work and perseverance. Mr. Griffin has won cases in every courthouse in San Diego County and has a long list of satisfied clients. Mr. Griffin has successfully defended cases ranging from first degree murder to driving under the influence. His success is based on the attention he gives to each and every client, his tireless work ethic and his knowledge of the San Diego court system. Mr. Griffin’s extensive criminal defense experience started at one of the nation’s top boutique criminal defense firms, Brown & Doherty, P.A. At Brown & Doherty, Mr. Griffin defended nearly every type of criminal case. Mr. Griffin authored numerous federal appeals, including an appeal from a capital murder trial where the federal appellate court vacated the sentence of two consecutive life terms and remanded the case to the trial court.

Mr. Griffin’s legal experience is not just limited to advocating for clients, he also completed a  federal  judicial internship with the Honorable James D. Whittemore, who has presided over numerous high profile cases, including the Terri Schaivo case. This position allowed Mr. Griffin an inside look as to how judges decide legal issues and what judges look for in legal writing and argument. This behind the scenes experience equipped Mr. Griffin with the tools and information on how best to persuade a judge.

Mr. Griffin graduated with honors from the US News & World Report’s #1 ranked trial advocacy school in the nation. Being a member of the nation’s #1 Trial Team allowed Mr. Griffin to learn from some of the country’s foremost experts on trial skills and techniques. This unmatched trial advocacy training allowed Mr. Griffin to win his first jury trial before he graduated from law school.

Mr. Griffin has been featured as a legal expert on local news programs and has received multiple awards for his courtroom advocacy and high client satisfaction.

Bar Memberships
• California
• United States District Court, Southern District of California

Professional Memberships
• The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers
• American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys: 10 Best
• Appellate Defenders Inc.
• San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association
• National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
• San Diego County Bar Association
• American Bar Association
• Consumer Attorneys of San Diego
• San Diego Inn of Court
• California DUI Lawyers Association

Education
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, The University of Montana
• Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, The University of Montana
• Juris Doctor, with Honors, Stetson University College of Law
– Graduated Cum Laude
– Trial Team Member
– ABA Advocacy Competition: Regional Champion & Top Individual Score at Nationals
– Honor Roll
– Member of Phi Delta Phi Legal Honors Fraternity
– Recipient of the Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges Award
– Recipient of the William Blews Award for Exceptional Pro Bono Service

Photos and videos

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Contact Patrick

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Griffin Law Office, APC
1350 Columbia, Unit 401
San Diego, CA, 92101

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  26 customer reviews
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Posted by anonymous | December 2, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
THE BEST
Patrick was very professional and fair priced for his outstanding services and due diligence. He came out with the best case scenario. And I could not be more pleased with the entire firm. From contacting me and keeping me up to date with my case, to putting my mind at ease with the possible pending charges. My case was brought to Patrick as a Felony, and ultimately he had the entire case dismissed. 10/10 would recommend
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Posted by Anthony | June 30, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best criminal defense attorney in San Diego
I met with a few attorneys before choosing to go with Patrick. I couldn't be happier with the service that Patrick provided throughout the entire process. The end result was the case being dismissed. He handled everything for me and that allowed me to focus on the important things in life. I would recommend anyone go to him with all their criminal defense needs.
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Posted by J | June 23, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
San Diegos Greatest Lawyer of All Time (GLOAT)
I am really greatful to have met MrGriffin he is upfront and there for you no matterwhat. When you hire him he is on your side and personally makes sure that every detail is cared for!! If you are looking for an attorney who actually cares about you and is incredibly smart and really good at his job please call him!! What I would have faced without him there would have cost me a lot more money and time I had several family members who had serious health problems and he really took care of me!! I'm not sure how bad it could have gotten before the pandemic but because I had him on my side I was able to settle the matter before it started and be ther for my fam!! Also he dosnt just stop as your lawyer. If there is anything he can't help you with here searches (actually researches) and directs you toward other great people who can!!
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Posted by Eugene | June 5, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. Eugene Watson
I first met Mr. Griffin back in December 2019, while incarcerated. He helped me so much in my case and he believed in me. His team and himself are very professional, intelligent, and honest. I highly recommend his law firm
Posted by Therese | May 8, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Representation
Mr. Griffin was hired to defend our son and did a stellar job. He knows the law and will go over and above the call of duty to accomplish the job. He's a highly respected defender. He even defended our son on an erroneous charge that appeared out of nowhere and was able to get all the charges dropped on both charges. What he did for our son was short of miraculous! I wouldn hire him again in a heartbeat.
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Posted by Jessica | May 6, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended!
Very pleased with my decision to go with Patrick when I needed some legal assistance. He’s very knowledgeable, down to earth, honest and trustworthy. I felt comfortable immediately, especially after consulting with other lawyers and not getting the same initial impression. Since working with him he’s been great at communicating with me. His assistant, Samantha is always quick to respond and helpful. Overall amazing experience and would highly recommend!
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Posted by anonymous | May 1, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer in Town!
When I found myself consumed by a huge misunderstanding I went to Patrick Griffin for answers; and he delivered in every possible way. Patrick's professionalism, punctuality and overall presence gave me a sense of comfort and security throughout the entire process. Thanks to Patrick and his paralegal Samantha, I am able to once again move forward in a positive direction. With Patrick, you're on the inside track.
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Posted by Chris | April 27, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI defense master
I hired patrick after i had met/spoke with a couple different lawyers and He was the best fit. I would suggest taking the time to consult with a few firms before deciding who to go with. I am glad I did bc I found a great lawyer. Patrick is an expert in dui defense and he handles your case directly. He has a great understanding of the system and the process which makes the entire ordeal a lot simpler. Patrick is easy to talk to and I could tell he cared about my case. He was honest, helpful and aggressive with my defense. His paralegal Samantha was also incredibly helpful and very prompt to respond to any question I had. I found patrick from online reviews so if you are reading this and need some help with criminal defense I would strongly suggest calling him to discuss your case.
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Posted by anonymous | November 13, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
SO happy with my choice
I was facing 10+ years in prison, and due to some fancy legal work he got a bunch of evidence suppressed. I talked to a bunch of other non-criminal defense attorneys and they all recommended Patrick. I can see why. He actually does the work, when a lot of other attorneys don’t. This guy saved my life, seriously. Thank you
Posted by Chris | July 3, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional Criminal Defense Lawyer
I had gotten my first DUI and I had no clue on what I was supposed to do. Some people I talked to told me to just plead guilty and just go with it. I had no idea so I called Patrick Griffin's Law Office. He immediately set up a meeting and we discussed what happened and what his plans were. It took months of appearances, waiting but everything was worth it because Patrick's strategy worked. We won and I came out with no conviction. I really recommend Patrick as a criminal defense lawyer because he knows what he talks about. Not to mention, he will definitely help fellow veterans who just plainly made the wrong decision that one time. Thank you Patrick, and I wish you more power and success!
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Posted by Martha Gutierrez | July 2, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommend defense attorney
When we hired Patrick Griffin as my son's criminal defense attorney we were very pleased with the outcome of my case. He was very thorough and kept us informed every step of the way to get my son the best possible and shortest sentence possible. I highly recommend him if one should need help like we did
Posted by Katrinna Gutierrez | June 25, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
High recommended
Patrick helped my family through a very tough time. He was able to get my brother the lowest sentence possible. We would not of had this kind of outcome if it wasn't for Patrick.
Posted by Grace | June 16, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommended Lawyer
Patrick did a very good job on my husband’s case. He is very knowledgeable and kept us very well informed throughout the process. He was able to get my husband the lowest possible sentence. If you want a good lawyer, I recommend hiring Patrick.
Posted by anonymous | June 15, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great criminal defense attorney!
Patrick represented my cousins case and also consulted on some personal legal matters that I also had. Hes a great criminal defense attorney who was there whenever I had any questions and also comforted my cousins family through out his trial. Positives Extremely helpful Gives helpful and detailed advice Walks you through the process step by step Always available Negatives Only available in San Diego
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Posted by Cody | June 13, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best EVER
Patrick helped me to a point that i felt like i had hired an extremely expensive attorney. I was advised through the whole process, anything i didnt know he took care of, and believe me it was a lot. I never had to go to court, when i was called into the police station for questioning, he made sure to take the time to be there with me as to not let them take advantage of me. where the police tried to use fear he explained to me that they will use that to their advantage to get me to be confused. He made it much easier to talk and explain myself to the officers. I recieved a call from him one day telling me the case was dropped. I could breathe again, thank you so much for your help!
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Posted by anonymous | May 3, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Honest, smart, and talented in court
I was able to sit through a hearing with Patrick on my DUI case and I was beyond impressed with how he handles himself in courtoom. I hired a Patrick on a domestic violence case. He was able to get it dismissed and then went a step further and filed a motion to destroy the arrest record. He is so easy to talk to and seems like an all around cool guy. I would recommend to anyone.
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Posted by Gene | May 2, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Incredible, Up and Coming, Energetic and Compentent Attorney
Patrick M Griffin, now a relative new name on the San Diego law front, however very experienced. I have retained many attorneys for my businesses.... From former Judges to experienced multi-attorney firms. Patrick and his associates were hands and above the best representatives I have experienced. He's the real DEAL folks!
Posted by Robin | July 19, 2013
Patrick Griffin Criminal Defense Attorney - A Godsend
Patrick Griffin, criminal defense attorney - He is in practice for all the right reasons! Patrick was supremely beneficial in making sure my son’s life stayed on track and ultimately was able to have the charge dismissed, not even filed. My family and I will always owe a huge debt of gratitude. This case involved double the work: research, time and dedication due to the fact my son is in the Navy. Not to worry, Patrick has countless contacts. This wasn't just a civil case. Needless to say if weren't for Patrick, my son's future both in civil court and the Navy would now be quite a tragedy. Perhaps I should have started with the fact the he was innocent! And, it had to be proven? His rates are fair and reasonable. I know this from interviewing many others. During the interview with Patrick, it was an instant connection. He cited information and possibilities to pursue faster than I could write. Encouraged us to contact others and make sure we were comfortable and how important it is during a time of crisis. Ability to stay in communication? Emails and phone calls never went unanswered. Well respected by clients and peers? Without a doubt! I also thank him for mentoring my son and keeping him informed, as we were in Texas and it was California law. With Warmest Thanks,
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Posted by Ryan | March 11, 2013
Outstanding Results and Pleasure to Work With
I can't say enough good things about Patrick. I was referred to him by a family friend after receiving back-to-back DUIs in Orange County, arguably the worst county in the country to get a DUI. I was facing 90 days in county jail and Patrick somehow convinced the judge and DA to agree to 20 days work furlough program. While receiving my sentence the judge commented that, "he'd never seen a criminal defense attorney go to bat for a client like that." I loved working with Patrick because he is down to earth, knowledgeable, and nonjudgmental. He was readily available anytime I needed advice, no matter how minor it was. He stayed two steps ahead of the case and made sure communication was clear and up to date. I would absolutely recommend Patrick to my closest friends and family. I am so grateful to have him as my attorney.
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Posted by Lisa | January 25, 2013
"The Best Criminal Defense Lawyer"
What do you do when you find yourself on the other side of the law and you know you are innocent. What do you do? Well this happened to me and I was in shock that this was happening to me. The first thing you get is tons of junk mail from lawyers who promise really nothing. I decided to research Yelp! and I am glad I did. If not my life might be a bit different and I would not be writing this letter today. Looking for a Criminal Defense Lawyer. Patrick Griffin was a name that came up with many 5 star and honest reviews. I decided let's give him call. I spoke with Mr. Griffin over the phone and he invited to his office to discuss my legal matter in more detail. I met with Mr.Griffin at his Law Office and discussed my case with him. I was very pleased and confident speaking with Mr.Griffin that he would do his best to ensure a positive outcome. I was surprised that his rates were very affordable and payment plan was very within my budget. I hired Patrick as my Criminal Defense Lawyer and I am very happy I did! Patrick kept me informed how my case was proceeding and at times when I was unsure, scared or had a question Patrick was there to answer my questions. The end result was that my case was dismissed. I give thanks for all the hard work to Patrick Griffin and his Law Office. If you ever find yourself between a rock and a hard place. I highly recommend Patrick Griffin to handle your case. Patrick Griffin will handle your case with professionalism, confidence, compassion and knowledge of the law. .
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
  • Contingency 33%-40%
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney/Owner
  • Griffin Law Office
  • 2011 - Present
  • Post-Bar
  • Office Of The Public Defender San Diego County
  • 2011 - 2011
  • Law Clerk
  • Attorney General Of Montana
  • 2010 - 2010
  • Judicial Intern to the Honorable J.Whittemore
  • U.S. District Court Middle District Of Florida
  • 2010 - 2010
  • Law Clerk
  • Brown & Doherty, PA
  • 2009 - 2010
  • Clinical Intern
  • University Of Montana School Of Law
  • 2009 - 2010
  • Litigation Paralegal
  • Law Office of Scott Johni, P.A.
  • 2006 - 2008
View all work experience

Education

  • Stetson University College of Law
  • Juris Doctor
  • 2010
  • University of Montana
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2006
  • University of Montana
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2006

Legal Cases

  • DUI (2nd Offense)
  • Evidence suppressed after Penal Code 1538.5 motion
  • Assault with Deadly Weapon Jury Trial
  • Not Guilty
  • DUI Jury Trial
  • Not Guilty
View all legal cases

Associations

  • San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • San Diego Consumer Attorneys
  • Attorney Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Attorney Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • San Diego Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
  • Attorney Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • California DUI Lawyers Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • Attorney Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Appellate Defenders, Inc.
  • Attorney Member
  • 2012 - 2013
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Best Law Firm 2018
  • Locale Magazine
  • 2018
  • Attorney of the Month
  • San Diego Attorney Journal
  • 2018
  • People Love Us On Yelp
  • Yelp
  • 2017
  • Premier Attorney
  • National Academy of Jurisprudence
  • 2016
  • People Love Us On Yelp
  • Yelp
  • 2016
  • 10 Best
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2015
  • People Love Us On Yelp
  • Yelp
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2014
  • People Love Us On Yelp
  • Yelp
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2012
  • William Blews Award for Exceptional Pro Bono Service
  • Stetson University College of Law
  • 2010
  • Honor Roll
  • Stetson University College of Law
  • 2010
  • 2009-2010 Advocacy Competition: Regional Champion
  • American Bar Association
  • 2010
  • Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges
  • Who's Who In American Law
  • 2010
  • Cardozo Inn honoree
  • Phi Delta Phi
  • 2010
  • Scholar of the College of Arts & Sciences
  • University of Montana
  • 2006
View all awards

Publications

Speaking Engagements

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (25)
Given (21)
Endorse Patrick
Unknown Attorney | Jan 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I went to law school with Mr. Griffin. He is a very smart man and a very hard worker. I would not want to go against him as opposing counsel!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Patrick Griffin is my go to guy whenever I refer a criminal matter, no matter how minor or serious the charges may be."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Patrick Griffin is a tenacious defender of his client's rights. He will go the distance to ensure that he secures the absolute best outcome possible. With Patrick in their corner, his clients are always well represented in court."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Jul 02
Relationship: Friend
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Excellent attorney. Hard-working and honest. I endorse Mr. Griffin."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 27
Relationship: Other
"I am pleased to endorse this lawyer!"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer.This lawyer has an expertise in DUI defense. By attending DUI seminars throughout the year to keep up on the latest in the law, field sobriety testing, blood testing, and breath testing, this attorney is an asset to the clients. This lawyer is a member of the California DUI Lawyers Association. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 30
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!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I first met Patrick Griffin while he was with the public defender and was impressed with his negotiating and courtroom demeanor. He always did well for his clients whenever he and I crossed paths. I would not hesitate to hire Mr. Griffin if I was in need of help. He will fight and fight well."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 08
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I had the pleasure of having Patrick as co- counsel on a DUI trial case. His assistance was invaluable. His knowledge and insight helped prevent a conviction on a third time dui client."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Patrick is a passionate and dedicated attorney, who goes above and beyond to meet his clients' needs."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Outstanding lawyer"
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 18
Relationship: Other
"I went to law school with Patrick and saw first hand how dedicated he is to his profession. He is ethical, hard-working, and a fantastic advocate. If you need legal help in the greater San Diego area, look no further."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Griffin is a detail oriented attorney always focused on meeting the needs of his client. He is a zealous advocate always working to protect his client's interests. I endorse and recommend him without reservation. He will always fight the system and will not stop until justice is served."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 17
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Griffin worked as co-counsel, second chair in a large federal drug smuggling jury trial, with me. His assistance was invaluable. I would have been at a loss without his assistance."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Griffin is a zealous advocate for his clients and is known for going the extra mile. I highly recommend this attorney."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
View more endorsements
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