Profile photo of Hon. John C. Griffin (Ret.)

Hon. John C. Griffin (Ret.)

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Chicago, IL, United States

About

Justice Griffin served on the Illinois Appellate Court and the Circuit Court of Cook County for over a decade. Before his judicial tenure, he spent 25 years in private practice focusing on commercial litigation, including banking, construction, and real estate disputes. He has presided over thousands of cases and conducted numerous settlement conferences, bringing extensive expertise in resolving complex legal issues across various industries.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Construction Employment & Labor Estates & Probate Insurance Personal Injury & Torts Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Justice
Illinois Appellate Court
First District
Presiding Judge
Circuit Court of Cook County
Commercial Sub-Division
Judge
Circuit Court of Cook County
Law Division
Partner
Griffin & Gallagher
Associate
Lord
Bissell & Brook

Publications Leadership

  • Frequent speaker on commercial litigation and appellate practice topics
  • Contributor to judicial education programs for the Illinois Supreme Court
  • Authored numerous appellate opinions on complex commercial and civil matters

Positioning Takeaways

Justice Griffin offers a unique dual perspective from his time on the appellate bench and as a presiding commercial court judge, making him highly effective for complex business mediations and arbitrations.

License & Certifications

  • Illinois State Bar Admission

Education

J.D.
DePaul University College of Law
B.A.
University of Notre Dame

Distinction

One of the few neutrals with significant experience as both a presiding judge in a dedicated commercial division and an appellate justice.

Reputation

Recognized for his thorough preparation, deep legal knowledge, and a fair-minded approach that facilitates resolution in high-stakes commercial disputes.