Kristina Barker: Business & Estate Planning Attorney & Mediator

Business & Estate Planning; Mediator

Kristina Barker is a California-based attorney and trained mediator with nearly two decades of legal experience. With a calm, collaborative approach and a deep understanding of both the law and human dynamics, Kristina helps individuals and businesses resolve conflict without the cost, stress, or exposure of litigation.

Kristina Barker, California attorney and mediator, smiling outdoors in a field, embodying a calm and approachable demeanor, reflecting her collaborative legal services in business and estate planning.

Kristina Barker – My Story

After 15 years of working as a paralegal across civil litigation, family law, and business disputes, I witnessed firsthand how much time, money, and emotion is lost in unresolved conflict. I saw clients buried in paperwork, drained by trial preparation, and frustrated by outcomes that felt anything but empowering.

That experience led me to mediation. I became an attorney not just to argue cases — but to help people stay out of court entirely.

Mediation, when done right, can be efficient, confidential, and transformative. I focus on creating a respectful space where all parties feel heard, understood, and guided toward practical, mutually beneficial solutions. Whether you’re navigating a business disagreement, family matter, or interpersonal conflict, my goal is simple: to help you reach resolution with clarity and dignity.

…At first it seemed very overwhelming, but Matt explained every step and made it easy…

Business attorney discussing legal matters with client, reviewing documents on a table, emphasizing personalized legal mentorship for entrepreneurs.

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 with 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

Kristina’s mediation style is collaborative, solution-oriented, and grounded in neutrality — ideal for professionals, entrepreneurs, and families seeking respectful, efficient alternatives to court.

Education

  • Juris Doctor (2024), John F. Kennedy School of Law at National University

  • Paralegal Certificate (2012), Los Angeles Mission College

  • Associate of Science in Pre-Law (2007), Butte College

Credentials

  • California State Bar License
  • 40-Hour Mediation Training Certificate, Community Boards of San Francisco.  One of California’s longest-standing community mediation programs

Other

  • Volunteer Mediator, Community Boards of San Francisco. 

  • Court-Appointed Mediator, Small Claims Division. 

Books & Publications

Our office has published three books, some of which, are available on Amazon.com.

Systems & Operations

Top 10 Secrets For Small Business Success

Book cover titled "Law Firm Confessional" by Matthew Murillo, featuring surprised woman and man, highlighting small business success secrets.

Sales & Marketing

45 Minute Business Breakthroughs

Book cover for "45 Minute Business Breakthroughs" by Matthew Murillo, featuring a yellow background, large bold text, and a photo of the author, emphasizing business strategies for entrepreneurs.

Succession Planning

An Entrepreneur’s Guide…

Succession book cover by Matthew Murillo, featuring title "Succession: An Entrepreneur's Guide to Protecting Family Wealth," emphasizing business succession planning and legal mentorship for entrepreneurs.

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.

Schedule a Consultation with Kristina Barker at Griffin APC

Phone

(855) 459-4099

Book An Appointment Online