Fighting For The “Little Guy”: Actual Client Case Studies
At Ryan Griffith Law P.C., leveling the playing field for the underdog – those that may be ignored or overrun by a more powerful entity – is our mission. That’s why we detail our case studies, not just as examples of legal successes but, more importantly, as case studies in perseverance, advocacy, and justice for individuals, organizations, and communities across California. Collectively, with more than two decades of experience and over $100 million secured on case demands, Ryan Griffith Law is proud to present these case studies of how our expertise in Sports Law, Real Estate Law, and Municipal Law produced real results for those we serve. See how we committed to making ‘the little guy’ win against all odds.
Case Study 1: Leveling the Playing Field for a Young Student Athlete
A talented young prospect from Oakland was banned from playing in a prestigious collegiate basketball tournament because of an alleged violation of NCAA amateurism rules. His family was overwhelmed by the legal issues and the resources of the college sports association playing against them.
The organization had deep pockets and powerful legal counsel. Our client, a high school senior with aspirations of a college basketball scholarship, not only faced the loss of playing in a major annual tournament but also the possible tarnishment of his reputation and future.
Ryan Griffith personally handled the matter, gathering as much information as possible related to the bylaws of the organization at issue and establishing evidence that the athlete maintained his amateur status. We collaborated with coaches, local sports governing bodies, and academic advisers in order to build a complete defense.
Aggressive negotiation and strategic advocacy overturned the decision of the organization. The athlete was reinstated, permitted to play in the tournament, and went on to earn a Division I scholarship. The family commented:
Words cannot express our appreciation for all your staff at your firm has done for our family. We are forever grateful for your thoroughness and direct approach toward us from day one.
This case highlighted our strong belief in protecting individual athletes’ rights, without prejudice or consideration of other interests or stakeholders.
Case Study 2: Saving a Family’s Home From Annexation in a Real Estate Dispute
A family of four living in San Francisco was facing eviction when the landlord proceeded to sell the home without honoring a right-of-first-refusal provision in the lease. The real estate developer was a well-known, massive corporation suing tenants in order to flip profit margins. The family was unaccustomed to the law, had no financially feasible alternative, and faced imminent eviction from their living situation.
We offered the family a no-charge consultation in which we reviewed the lease against California real estate law. We determined the landlord had violated the lease in several ways. Ryan Griffith Law P.C. filed an injunction to prevent the sale and proceeded to mediation with the developer’s law firm. All throughout, we kept the family informed and educated.
The family’s right-of-first-refusal was recognized and our attorneys negotiated purchase terms that allowed our clients to remain in their home at market price. The developer would also be required to pay attorney fees and the family would not face eviction. Along with preserving clients’ housing rights, this outcome also set a precedent for this region on tenant protections against powerful real estate forces.
Case Study 3: Advocating for a Local Merchant Against Unfair Business Regulations
A small café in San Mateo was facing being forced out of business after a new city ordinance limited outdoor seating. The rules hit small businesses particularly hard while national chains had loopholes that allowed them to continue operating their locations.
The client, a first-generation immigrant who owned a small café, put his life savings into the business but was not aware of municipal codes. Battling city codes and city council hearings was no easy challenge. The deck was further stacked against him through large competitors lobbying for themselves to be exempt from the restrictions.
Ryan Griffith Law P.C. worked with the owner to build community support and document the restrictive and disproportionate impact of the ordinance on small businesses. We filed a formal appeal and presented evidence before the city council, making the argument that all businesses are equal under the law.
The city agreed to revise the ordinance by providing a more equitable permitting process that would enable the client and other small businesses to keep outdoor seating in front of their restaurants. Not only did the client’s business survive, but he prospered, becoming an advocate for other entrepreneurs.
This case showcases how the practice of law through advocacy can enable small business owners to fight back against local government overreach and create greater opportunity in communities.
Case Study 4: Going to Bat for a Landmark Sports Contract
A Los Angeles-based female soccer player was presented with the first professional contract of her career with a national team. Initial terms of the contract were drastically lower than men’s teams and included little protection for injury and endorsements.
Starting a career in professional sports is daunting and the client was uncertain how to ask for fair terms without jeopardizing the opportunity. The sports agency representing the team would not renegotiate the contract.
We conducted a market analysis of similar contracts and counseled the client on negotiating strategy. Ryan Griffith personally spoke with the team’s legal counsel to negotiate equal pay, more robust protection for injuries, and flexibility in endorsements.
In response, the contract terms were revised to provide a 35% increase in base salary, extensive injury protections, and specific boundaries for sponsorships. The success story of the athlete was published in several regional sports media outlets, highlighting gender-based inequities in sports contracts.
This case now serves as a benchmark for women’s sports contracts. It is an example of our firm’s commitment to protect athletes and level the playing field from inception to finish.
Case Study 5: Defending a Homeowner Against Illegal Encroachment of Property
Background: A retired educator in Marin County learned that a developer building a home next door encroached several feet onto her property, blocking access and devaluing her home. The developer refused to settle based on his intent, citing uncertain property lines.
Challenge: Married with a fixed income, the client felt powerless in the face of a well-capitalized building company working with an aggressive law firm. Losing any part of her home was very worrisome.
Our Approach: After a free consultation, Ryan Griffith Law P.C. facilitated a professional boundary survey for a clarification of property lines and gathered historical documents establishing the location of the property. We filed a quiet title action and presented it during settlement conferences with the developer’s law firm.
Outcome: The court found in our client’s favor and ordered that the encroaching fence be taken down and our client be compensated for diminished value and attorneys’ fees. She was able to reclaim her property and her peace of mind.
Impact: This case reinforced our commitment to standing by homeowners against inequitable practices, regardless of opponent size or resources.
How We Put Our Clients First: Tailored Approaches
Each of these case studies demonstrates our overriding philosophy: personal, client-focused service and fierce advocacy. Because Ryan Griffith is involved in the process, every client has the benefit of more than 20 years of experience. From initial, no-cost consultation to final case resolution, we are committed to transparency, communication, and strategic action through each unique situation.
Whether you’re an athlete needing to defend your rights, a homeowner needing to defend your property, or a local business needing to be treated fairly, Ryan Griffith Law P.C. has the experience and drive to represent you. To learn more about our background and values, visit our About Ryan Griffith Law P.C. page.
Want to Get Started On Your Success Story?
If confronted with a legal obstacle or problem that seems impossible to overcome, you don’t necessarily have to do it alone. Ryan Griffith Law P.C. advocates helping people, families, and businesses throughout California to achieve justice and favorable solutions. We have long been known for doing what we can to ‘help the little guy’ in numerous situations. To schedule a free (24/7) office consultation, contact us today:
- Address: 1566 35th Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94122
- Phone: 510-564-8552
- Email: [email protected]
- LinkedIn: Ryan Griffith
Still have questions? Feel free to get in touch with us via phone or email. We are eager to help you in any way we can. For more ways to reach us, visit our Contact Ryan Griffith Law P.C. page.