David P. Shapiro

David P. Shapiro is a seasoned criminal defense attorney known for defending individuals facing serious criminal accusations in San Diego County. He brings real-world empathy to his clients, having personally faced the criminal justice system in 2004. That experience drives his unwavering commitment to fight for justice, accountability, and second chances.

David earned his high school diploma from Staten Island Technical High School in 1999. He graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 2003. In 2006, he received his Juris Doctor from Tulane University Law School, where he served as President of the Criminal Law Society.

Since 2007, David has focused solely on criminal defense in San Diego. Over the years, he has secured not guilty verdicts at jury trials in every courthouse in the county. His case results span from murder and kidnapping dismissals to achieving probation and no jail time for clients in serious felony cases such as sexual abuse, drug trafficking, and violent crimes.

David is highly respected in the legal field. He has earned AV Preeminent ratings from Martindale-Hubbell® since 2019 and has been named to the Super Lawyers list (2023–2024) after multiple years as a Rising Star. His work has led to numerous recognitions, including the SD500 Most Influential People (2022, 2024) and the Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics in 2022.

David P. Shapiro’s legal career reflects a strong dedication to advocating for the accused, ensuring they are treated fairly, and helping them move forward with dignity and hope. In addition to defending clients, David contributes to the legal community through active membership in associations like the San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and California Attorneys for Criminal Justice. He also shares his knowledge in published guides for individuals charged with sex, drug, or theft crimes.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys
• Member, The State Bar of California
• Member, Federal District Court for the Southern District of California
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association
• Member, California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
• Member, California Public Defenders Association
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, National Criminal Defense College

Licensed State

• California

Education

• Tulane University Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• The State University of New York at Buffalo
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)
• Staten Island Technical High School
  H.S. Diploma

Awards & Badges