Proud to Be Named a “Company That Cares” in the San Diego Community

David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys Honored by the San Diego Business Journal

At David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys, we’ve always believed our responsibility to the San Diego community goes far beyond criminal defense representation. While we’re proud of our work helping clients charged with serious crimes regain control of their future, we’re arguably even more proud of what we do outside the courtroom. That’s why we’re honored to announce that our firm has been selected as a 2025 “Company That Cares” by the San Diego Business Journal.

This recognition isn’t just a badge of honor, it’s a celebration of our team’s unwavering commitment to service, inclusion, and opportunity for all.

What It Means to Be a “Company That Cares”

This prestigious recognition, launched this year by the San Diego Business Journal, shines a spotlight on businesses that go above and beyond in giving back to their communities. From innovative philanthropic initiatives to impactful volunteer efforts, this list highlights those who make San Diego stronger, not just economically, but socially and culturally.

To be named among this inaugural class is an honor and responsibility we don’t take lightly. It affirms what we’ve known all along: the legal field can and should be a powerful force for good.

From the Courtroom to the Community

As one of San Diego’s largest criminal defense firms, with offices in San Diego and Chula Vista, our reputation in the courtroom is stronger than ever. We’ve secured not guilty verdicts in every courthouse across the County and delivered results in high-stakes cases ranging from DUI to murder.

But the heart of our work doesn’t end when our clients’ cases are closed.

Our philosophy is simple: we help good people regain control of their future when charged with a crime. We have also sought to create an everlasting impact on the San Diego community beyond criminal defense.

Second Chances and Life-Changing Partnerships

For years, our founder, David P. Shapiro, has volunteered and helped raise money for Second Chance, a nonprofit focused on job readiness for justice-involved individuals. David has served as a Class Champion, spoken at graduation ceremonies, and helped dozens of participants return to the workforce with confidence.

“We’ve committed to letting Second Chance borrow David for a few weeks at a time,” the firm shares. “Because when someone is truly ready to turn their life around, they deserve the resources—and the people—who believe in them.”

These are more than volunteer hours. They’re bridges to dignity, employment, and hope.

Investing in Education and Empowerment

Education has the power to change lives, which is why our firm has awarded six scholarships to college-bound students, including four specifically for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

In 2022, we took that investment even further, fully funding a reading room at a local Boys & Girls Club through our partnership with NFL Hall of Famer Andre Reed’s “Read with Reed 83” initiative.

Our “Protect Your Freedom. Protect Your Future. Know Your Rights.” presentations have also reached communities across San Diego—from the Asian Solidarity Collective to students at Hoover High School in collaboration with Youth Empowerment—providing residents with knowledge about the legal system and their rights within it.

Fostering Joy, Inclusion, and Local Culture

Building community also means creating spaces for connection, joy, and cultural celebration.

That’s why we proudly sponsor KPBS’ “Pure Laughter”, San Diego’s first clean stand-up comedy series. Because sometimes, the best medicine for a heavy world is a good laugh.

We’ve also supported initiatives like:

• Uniforms for the Friendship Soccer League (Ethiopian and Eritrean-American youth)
• The San Diego Black Golfers Association’s Juneteenth Charity Golf Tournament, benefiting organizations like The Blue Heart Foundation, Epiphany Women in Focus, and Paving Great Futures

These partnerships reflect our firm’s deep respect for the diverse communities that make San Diego what it is.

Building Stronger Networks for Change

In 2021, David co-founded the San Diego Attorney Alliance (SDAA)—a collective of attorneys using their platforms for good. Together, the SDAA has hosted multiple fundraising events benefiting:

• Just In Time for Foster Youth
• Second Chance
• Alma Future Foundation (empowering youth in Baja California)
• Labs and More (Dog) Rescue

Our firm also remains an active supporter of the Lawyers Club of San Diego, with attorney Elmira Yousufi serving in a leadership role on its Board. We proudly sponsored the organization’s Annual Dinners in 2023 and 2024.

A Culture of Excellence Rooted in Ethics

This award joins a growing list of recognitions that reflect who we are:

• 2022 BBB Torch Award for Ethics
• Proud Partner of the 2025 San Diego Padres Radio Network
• Numerous trial victories, dismissals, and case resolutions that many thought impossible

Through it all, we’ve stayed rooted in the belief that every client—and every community member—deserves respect, empathy, and the opportunity to move forward.

As we often say, “Just because you’ve been accused of a crime doesn’t mean you’re a criminal.” And just because you’ve stumbled doesn’t mean your life is over. That’s the foundation of our work and our community service.

Gratitude and Looking Ahead

We are deeply grateful to the San Diego Business Journal for this honor and to the many organizations, clients, and community members who have trusted us along the way.

To our clients: Thank you for allowing us to guide you through some of the most difficult times in your lives. To our community partners: Thank you for working alongside us to build something bigger than any one case or courtroom. And to our team: Your passion, your empathy, and your dedication make this award possible.

This is just the beginning.

Want to Learn More or Get Involved?

Explore our community initiatives, stay up-to-date on upcoming events, or contact us to learn how you can partner with us in giving back.