Bruce S. Griffen

Bruce S. Griffen is a Flagstaff criminal defense attorney and experienced trial lawyer representing clients in serious criminal matters. He is admitted in Arizona state and federal courts, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the US Supreme Court. His practice is devoted to criminal defense, and his long courtroom background includes advocacy in matters requiring close attention to evidence, procedure, constitutional rights, and trial strategy.

Bruce graduated from Northern Arizona University and later earned his law degree from Pepperdine School of Law. His education was followed by decades of criminal defense practice in Arizona. That academic and professional foundation supports his work analyzing criminal charges, developing defense strategies, preparing cases for hearings and trial, and addressing legal issues that arise in state and federal criminal proceedings.

Bruce has practiced criminal defense for decades and has contributed to the field beyond individual cases. He is a founding member of Arizona Attorneys for Criminal Justice and previously served on the Criminal Rules Committee of the State Bar of Arizona. He has lectured across Arizona on criminal defense topics, sharing courtroom and procedural experience with other members of the legal community.

Bruce S. Griffen has received professional recognition for criminal defense and trial work, including the Tom Karas Criminal Justice Award and an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. He has served as president of the Coconino County Bar Association and was a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers. His career reflects sustained involvement in criminal justice, professional organizations, and courtroom advocacy.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Griffen & Stevens
• Member, State Bar of Arizona
• Fellow, American College of Trial Lawyers (2009-2021)
• Past President, Coconino County Bar Association (Flagstaff, AZ) (1987)
• Founding Member, Arizona Attorneys for Criminal Justice
• Member (Criminal Justice Section), American Bar Association
• Member, National Organization of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
• Admitted, U.S. Supreme Court (1983 – Present)
• Admitted, U.S. District Court for Arizona and Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals (1980 – Present)

Licensed State

• Arizona

Awards & Badges