Matthew Murillo: Business Lawyer & Mentor for Entrepreneurs
Business Lawyer / Advisor
A serial entrepreneur dedicated to supporting serial entrepreneurs, at any stage of their business life cycle.
Matthew Murillo – My Story
You might be surprised to learn I’m not a Southern California native. I was raised in rural Butte County—a place where hard work and self-reliance weren’t just values, they were survival skills. I grew up watching my parents and older brother run their own businesses. Entrepreneurship wasn’t a buzzword in our household—it was a way of life.
That upbringing shaped everything I do.
I understand the tension that comes with building a business while raising a family. I know the pressure of having to make payroll, sign the front of the check, and still show up for dinner. That perspective is what makes my approach to business law different: I don’t just talk strategy—I live it.
Today, I lead Griffin APC with that same entrepreneurial mindset. But like many of our clients, I wear more than one hat.
I maintain an active real estate broker license, and volunteer with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that empowers startup founders; in addition to eCommerce ventures.
This isn’t theoretical for me. I know what it’s like to juggle competing priorities, make high-stakes decisions, and build something that lasts.
So when entrepreneurs sit across from me—whether it’s to talk asset protection, succession planning, or scaling sustainably—I’m not guessing at what they need. I’ve been there. I am there. And that’s exactly why I’m able to offer the kind of insight most business attorneys simply can’t.
Let’s talk about what’s keeping you up at night—and map out a path that lets you sleep a little better.
“…At first it seemed very overwhelming, but Matt explained every step and made it easy…“
A Legal Team That Thinks Like You Do
Most business attorneys understand the law. Fewer understand entrepreneurs.
At Griffin APC, we’re different by design. You won’t find siloed thinking or generic legal advice here—because we don’t just work with entrepreneurs; we are entrepreneurs.
Our founder, Matthew Murillo, is involved in multiple ventures across various industries. That lived experience gives him a unique lens into the challenges our clients face—managing multiple revenue streams, balancing business growth with family legacy, and ensuring every entity plays well within the larger ecosystem.
Kristina Barker, Esq., brings nearly two decades of legal experience to the table, with deep insight into how conflict can disrupt not just business, but life. As both a licensed attorney and trained mediator, Kristina understands the power of prevention and strategic resolution—especially when business, legacy, and personal dynamics overlap.
Together, we help entrepreneurs make smart legal decisions that protect their time, wealth, and peace of mind. Because you don’t just need a lawyer—you need a legal partner who understands the business of building a life.
Qualifications, Awards & Other Notables
Matthew’s primary goal in business is to create a generational legacy that will provide for his family long-term. As an entrepreneur, Matthew us furthering that goal by establishing 4 for-profit endeavors, along with a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt foundation. In business, his goal is to provide aspiring entrepreneurs the roadmap and guidance to do the same for themselves and their families.
Education
- B.A. University of Redlands (Philosophy/Psychology), with a Minor in Speech Pathology
- J.D. University of La Verne
Credentials
- California State Bar License
- Texas State Bar License
- California Real Estate Broker License
Recognition
- Featured on Hollywood Weekly
- Featured On Fox Hills Digest
- Featured American Law TV
- Top 40 Under 40 Attorneys in CA
- Top 100 Attorneys in CA
Books & Publications
Matthew has published three books, some of which, are available on Amazon.com.
Systems & Operations
Top 10 Secrets For Small Business Success
Sales & Marketing
45 Minute Business Breakthroughs
Succession Planning
An Entrepreneur’s Guide…
What We Do For Your Business
Limited Liability Companies
Corporations
Mediation
Probate
Business Succession Planning
Living Trusts & Wills
Private Briefings on Legal Planning That Actually Matters
A monthly editorial on business continuity, estate planning, and long-term decision-making—written for founders, families, and advisors who prefer clarity over noise.