David Philip Shapiro
also known as David Shapiro, David P. Shapiro
About David
Biography
Arrested for a crime he, admittedly, did commit in 2004, David experienced firsthand the same fear, uncertainty, and concern for his future and freedom so many of his clients undergo when arrested or under investigation for allegedly committing a crime. That experience motivated David to dedicate his career to helping good people regain control of their future when charged with a crime.
In addition to its accolades and accomplishments for his clients inside the courtroom (see ) David's greatest joy is the work he does for our community, via fundraisers, donations of money and time, and simply helping out wherever and whenever there is a need. David's firm has historically been connected with such great organizations such as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Second Chance, Genesis Recovery, and San Diego’s Friendship Soccer League.
Practicing exclusively criminal defense in San Diego since 2007, David has built one of San Diego's most respected criminal defense firms since opening its doors in 2010. Some of his best accolades include:
2022 Better Business Bureau Torch Awards for Ethics Winner
One of San Diego's Most Influential People (SD per the San Diego Business Journal (2025, 2024, 2022)
LOODPS being recognized as one of the nation's fastest growing (as recognized by Law Firm 500 from 2018-2021) law firms.
San Diego's Next Top Business Leaders under 40 (2018)
San Diego's Top 40 Under 40 Business Leaders by San Diego Metro Magazine (2018)
Leaders in Law Finalist by the San Diego Business Journal (2019-2022)
SuperLawyers Rising Star for 7consecutive years (2015-2021) & SuperLawyer (2023)
UB Fast 46 Finalist (2021-2023) recognizing the fastest growing businesses in the world owned by University at Buffalo alumni (#22, #23, & #20)
3 Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in San Diego per Three Best Rated (2017-present)
Martindale Hubbell AV-Preeminent rating (2019-present)
A native of New York City, David moved to San Diego in 2006 after living in New Orleans from 2003-2006.
*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Rating™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.
Practice Areas
5
Practice Areas
19 years | 1,750 cases
19 years
19 years
19 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
1 %
Always
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in California for 18 years
State: California
Acquired: 2007
No misconduct found
Location
David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys
2550 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1050, San Diego, CA, 92103
David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys
270 E. Douglas Ave., Suite 101, El Cajon, CA, 92020
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David Philip Shapiro's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
113 Client Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 68 reviews | Criminal Defense
Posted by anonymous | September 01, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
This is the team for when you are scared, confused and overwhelmed by false charges.
There are few events in life more terrifying than being accused of a crime by the state. There I was, living my life, getting in my care to run an errand. My world changed in a moment. I was arrested and taken to jail. My home, car and possessions invaded. I felt violated, frightened and alone. Th...
David Shapiro
Replied last September 02, 2025This review really sums up the experience anyone facing criminal charges should (keyword) have with the criminal defense law firm they hire.
Posted by anonymous | July 24, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
A great lawyer, and a respected person in the community.
I hired Mr. Shapiro at a horrible time when my life fell apart very publicly because of a poor choice of mine. David was very helpful at shooting straight with me, as well as teaching me, my wife, and my family about the different nuances, definitions, and options of the legal system (which is a disa...
David Shapiro
Replied last October 30, 2023Appreciate the kind words. Hope you never need us again, but if you do, you know we can be counted on!
Posted by Caleb | October 21, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
4 felonies DISMISSED
Attorney Shapiro helped me to get my 4 felony charges dismissed via a mental health diversion program. I was arrested and charged during a manic episode, and the program I completed helped to remove the charges. Attorney Shapiro helped me to get my life back and I can’t thank him enough
David Shapiro
Replied last December 06, 2022We are so happy to have played a part in getting your life back in your control, Caleb. You put in the work to turn things around and deserved the outright dismissal!
Posted by anonymous | September 16, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
A+++ Criminal Defense Attorney
Mr. Shapiro and his team did an amazing job at exonerating me from my felony charges here in San Diego. They were relentless with the law enforcement and DA offices, and they essentially saved my life and career. The entire office also has impeccable customer service. Would highly recommend these pro...
David Shapiro
Replied last September 17, 2021Love this review, but love it because the author was able to witness firsthand how we all work as a team at the firm for the client's best interests, including our efforts to provide "impeccable customer service." Glad we were able to help you regain control of your future!
Posted by Mitchell | August 08, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Helpful and understanding when I needed it most
My life was out of control and I made some bad decisions which got me into trouble with the law and I ended up in jail. I went into treatment and got clean when I got out of jail and David took care of all the legal problems I had. Without David I would have been left with multiple felonies on my rec...
David Shapiro
Replied last August 08, 2021This was another team effort to obtain this great result. Most of all, it was the commitment to your case and future that enabled us to get you the result we did. Congratulations, Mitchell!
David Philip Shapiro's Lawyer Endorsements
"I highly endorse attorney David Shapiro. I have known David for several years, including currently having an office right next door to him. I see him interact with clients every day, and I know that he deeply cares for his clients and does everything he can for them. David has done numerous jury trials, getting great outcomes for those he represents."
"David Shapiro is an aggressive trial attorney who has proven to garner favorable results for his clients. He has an excellent reputation in the San Diego legal community and he is highly regarded by both the bench and fellow attorneys."
"I endorse David Shapiro. He is a thoughtful and professional lawyer who takes his clients matters to heart. He has an excellent reputation within the legal community."
"David is an exceptional criminal defense attorney whose reputation speaks for itself. Recommended with complete confidence."
"I highly recommend David Shapiro. He is sharp and energized and really cares about the outcomes for his clients. He is committed to his local community and has achieved great results. I would not hesitate to refer my trusted San Diego clients and referrals to Mr. Shapiro."
"I have referred numerous cases to David over several years because he consistently impresses with the outcome. His conscientiousness and attention to detail is exceeded only by his court persuasiveness. I highly recommend David as an exceptionally-skilled criminal lawyer!"
"David is an experienced and well learned attorney with the trial skills to match. Zealous advocacy is all that David believes in when it comes to his clients. I have personally witnessed David's work and endorse him without reservation."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"David is a Brilliant Lawyer. I endorse him."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Facing DUI or criminal accusations is never easy, but obtaining the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney can alleviate some of the stress and give you a fighting chance. Attorney Shapiro has the experience you're looking for."
"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A brilliant, trustworthy and highly respected attorney in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"This lawyer provides excellent services to clients. I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse attorney David Shapiro. Very active in providing outstanding legal answers on Avvo to assist folks seeking help. He is an asset to the legal industry."
"I endorse attorney David Shapiro. A strong advocate for his clients and a respected by his colleagues within the legal community."
"I endorse attorney David Shapiro. He is hard working and dedicated to his clients. He donates his times to provide excellent answers on Avvo from citizens seeking legal advise. Respected member in the legal industry."
"Mr. Shapiro has an excellent reputation with outstanding results. 4 years of contributions to the avvo community, impeccable local endorsements and a vast number of very satisfied clients as his reviews attest to. READ THEM. If you are in or near San Francisco do yourself a favor and schedule a consultation."
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Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
Criminal defense lawyer
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Experience
Honors
2025
Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers
2024
H.E.A.L. Advocacy Award, Youth Empowerment
2024
SD500 - Most Influential People in San Diego, San Diego Business Journal
2024
Fastest Growing Private Companies: 2021-2023 = #35, San Diego Business Journal
2024
Leaders of Influence in Law, San Diego Business Journal
2024
Fast 46 (38th Fastest Growing Alumni Led Business in the World), University at Buffalo
2024
Superlawyer, Superlawyers
2023
Fast 46 (20th Fastest Growing Alumni Led Business in the World), University at Buffalo
2023
Fastest Growing Private Companies - #36 (2020-2022), San Diego Business Journal
2023
Fastest Growing Law Firms in the U.S.- #105 (67 % Growth), Law Firm 500
2023
Leaders in Law, San Diego Business Journal
2023
Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers
2022
Fastest Growing Private Companies - #17 (2019-2021), San Diego Business Journal
2022
Leaders in Law - Finalist, San Diego Business Journal
2022
UB Fast 46 - Fastest Growing UB Alumni Owned Businesses (#23), University at Buffalo
2022
SD 500 - Most Influential People in San Diego, San Diego Business Journal
2022
Fastest Growing Law Firms in the U.S. - #94 (127%), Law Firm 500
2021
UB Fast 46 - Fastest Growing UB Alumni Owned Businesses (#22), University at Buffalo
2021
Fastest Growing Law Firms in the U.S. - #73 (108% Growth), Law Firm 500
2021
Leaders in Law - Finalist, San Diego Business Journal
2021
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2020
Fastest Growing Small Law Firms in the United States - #30, Law Firm 500
2020
Job Readiness Training Class 240 Class Champion, Second Chance
2020
3 Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in San Diego, Three Best Rated
2020
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2019
Leaders in Law - Finalist, San Diego Business Journal
2019
Fastest Growing Law Firms in the United States - #24, LawFirm500
2019
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2018
AV PreEminent Rating, Martindale-Hubbell®
2018
Fastest Growing Law Firms in the United States - #218, Law Firm 500
2018
Top 40 Under 40, SD Metro Magazine
2018
Next Top Business Leader Under 40, San Diego Business Journal
2018
Top Lawyers, Three Best Rated
2018
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2017
Best of the Bar, San Diego Business Journal
2017
Top Lawyers, Three Best Rated
2017
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2016
Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2016
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2016
Best of the Bar, San Diego Business Journal
2016
Top 40 under 40, National Trial Lawyers Association
2016
Top 10 Under 40, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2015
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2014
Best of the Bar, San Diego Business Journal
2014
Top Attorney, San Diego Daily Transcript
2014
Top Contributor for DUIs, Avvo
2013
Clients Choice in Criminal Defense, Avvo
2013
Top Young Attorneys, San Diego Daily Transcript
2012
Top Young Attorneys, San Diego Daily Transcript
2011
Top Young Attorneys, San Diego Daily Transcript
2009
Best Attorney/Parolee Mentor Match of the Year, VIP Mentors of San Diego
2003
Excellent Scholarly Achievement, The State University of New York at Buffalo
Work Experience
2010 - Present
Founder/Owner/Managing Partner, Law Office of David P. Shapiro
2007 - 2010
Associate Attorney, Steigerwalt & Associates
2007 - 2007
Owner, The Law Office of David P. Shapiro
2006 - 2007
Post-Bar Law Clerk, Office of the Public Defender - San Diego County
Associations
2023 - Present
Golden State BalletBoard Member
2016 - Present
San Diego Criminal Defense Bar AssociationBoard Member
2011 - Present
Better Business BureauAdmitted
2007 - Present
California Attorneys for Criminal Justice (CACJ) - CaliforniaAttorney Member
2007 - Present
California Public Defenders Association (CPDA) - CaliforniaAttorney Member
2007 - Present
The State Bar of CaliforniaAdmitted
2007 - Present
San Diego Criminal Defense Bar AssociationAttorney Member
2006 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersAttorney Member
Member
2019 - 2019
Second ChanceJRT Class 232 Class Champion
2016 - 2024
How To Manage a Small Law FirmMember
2016 - 2022
Genesis RecoveryBoard Member
2009 - 2009
National Criminal Defense College (Macon, GA)Alumnus
2003 - 2006
The Criminal Law Society - Tulane UniversityPresident
Sample of Legal Cases
Temporary Restraining Order (TRO Dismissed)
Probation
Dismissed at Trial
Plea to "Wet Reckless;" DUI dismissed
Reduced Plea
Dismissed on First Day of Trial by Prosecution
Recent Good Results
Not Guilty on All Charges After Jury Trial
All Charges Dismissed; South Bay
Sole Felony Charge Dismissed
NOT GUILTY ON ALL CHARGES AFTER JURY TRIAL
NOT GUILTY AFTER JURY TRIAL
All Felony Charges Dismissed After Prelim. Hrg.
Education
2006
JD - Juris Doctor
2003
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1999
High School Diploma
N/A
JD - Juris Doctor
N/A
N/A
Speaking Engagements
2019
2019
2018
2018
2015
2015
2014
Judging of Student Advocacy
2014
2013
Aaron Hernandez Criminal Case
2012
Legal Clinic
2010
Sex Offenders & The Chelsea King Murder
2009
Overcrowding in California's Prisons
2009
Arrest of Chargers Linebacker Shawne Merriman
2009
DUI Laws in California
2009
Veteran's Rights in Criminal Court
2009
What it's like being a Criminal Defense Attorney
2008
What it's like being a Criminal Defense Attorney
2006
Innocence & The Death Penalty
Publications
2019
2018
2018
2018
2017
2016
2016
2015
Languages
English
Spanish
Italian
Farsi
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
My daughter has a paid attorney paid in full up to trial. how does she fire him ?
27 Jan 2022
Does the San Diego County Work Furlough Program give good time credits?
02 Nov 2021
Can i get bail if im already out on bail?
01 Nov 2021
Legal Guides
Arrested for a DUI in San Diego, but How Do You Avoid Getting Convicted?
21 Jun 2012
What Does the Prosecutor Have to Prove to Convict Me of a DUI in California
08 Mar 2011
What is an "Experienced" Criminal Defense Attorney?
03 Oct 2010