John P. Murillo believes that successful family law representation begins with meticulous preparation, thoughtful strategy, and clear communication. He represents clients throughout Orange County in divorce, child custody, child and spousal support, property division, domestic violence restraining orders, and other complex family law matters. Whether resolving disputes through negotiation or advocating in the courtroom, John is committed to helping clients navigate difficult transitions with confidence and clarity.
Having experienced his parents’ divorce as a child, John understands that family law disputes are about far more than legal issues. They affect families, finances, and futures. That perspective continues to shape his approach to every case, emphasizing practical guidance, honest advice, and steady advocacy tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.
John earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, with an emphasis in Comparative Politics, from the University of California, San Diego, graduating magna cum laude and with high honors. While at UC San Diego, he actively participated in Model United Nations, where he developed strong skills in advocacy, negotiation, and persuasive communication. He went on to earn his Juris Doctor from the University of California, Los Angeles. During law school, he further developed his litigation skills through mock trial and internships with both a boutique civil litigation firm and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
After beginning his legal career in Los Angeles, John relocated to Orange County in 2020, where he now devotes his practice exclusively to family law. Dedicated to continual professional development, he has pursued extensive advanced trial advocacy training. He is a graduate of all four programs offered by the National Family Law Trial Institute—one of the nation’s premier family law trial advocacy programs—and also completed the Orange County Bar Association’s College of Trial Advocacy, further strengthening his courtroom advocacy and trial presentation skills.
John believes that effective advocacy begins long before entering the courtroom. He approaches every matter with careful preparation, strategic planning, and attention to detail, working to position clients for success whether their case is resolved through negotiation, mediation, or litigation. He has represented clients through every stage of the family law process, including contested hearings, settlement conferences, mediation, and trial preparation. Throughout each case, John prioritizes responsiveness, transparency, and practical advice so that clients understand their options and can make informed decisions at every stage of the process.
In addition to his practice, John is actively involved in both the legal profession and the local community. He is a member of the California Lawyers Association Family Law Section, the Orange County Bar Association Family Law Section, the Hispanic Bar Association of Orange County, Project Youth OC, and the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce.
Outside the office, John enjoys spending time with his wife and young daughter, traveling, reading, and exploring Orange County’s restaurant scene.
