By: Lindsay Jeffords

Craig Fontaine Ashton didn’t just launch a law firm—he created a leadership model focused on discipline, empathy, and accountability. As co-founder of Ashton & Price LLP, he has spent over two decades growing a practice that’s recognized not only for its legal outcomes, but for its commitment to client experience. Behind the firm’s success is a strategic mindset that reflects how Craig blends business thinking with legal advocacy.

His journey began with a BA in History from UC Berkeley and a JD from Pepperdine University School of Law, where he served as Student Body President and President of the Environmental Law Society. He also won Best Oral Advocate in the Vincent S. Dalsimer Moot Court Competition, judged by U.S. Attorney General Richard Thornburgh. From the start, Craig focused not just on personal achievement but on building a career defined by service, structure, and ethical grounding.

A Founder’s Role Beyond the Courtroom

Craig stays deeply connected to every part of the firm’s operations. One of his core beliefs is that accessibility to experienced attorneys should never be compromised, regardless of firm size or case volume.

“Gate agent flying the plane—orderly performing surgery—not a chance,” says Craig. “At Ashton & Price, an injury victim’s first call is answered by a real, live person who immediately transfers them to an experienced attorney.” This high-touch intake model reflects Craig’s commitment to protecting the client experience. Automation is used sparingly, and senior attorneys handle early-stage consultations. It’s a system built for trust and long-term relationships, not volume.

Focused on Outcomes and People

Craig has always believed that great outcomes follow strong relationships. “Between you and me, we win a lot!” he often says. But for him, winning means more than verdicts or settlements. It means clients feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout the legal process.

Under his leadership, Ashton & Price has secured more than $250 million in verdicts, settlements, and awards. The firm has been named Personal Injury Law Firm of the Year for five consecutive years by the Consumer Business Review and consistently ranks among the Top 10 Personal Injury Law Firms by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys.

Teaching by Example

Craig’s leadership is visible in the way attorneys at Ashton & Price approach their work and each other. New lawyers receive more than legal training—they’re taught how to practice with compassion and conviction. Craig mentors his team with an emphasis on purpose over ego and encourages young attorneys to remain grounded, no matter how technical the case.

“When our clients get reunited, through exemplary medical care, with happiness and hope, we unleash our decades of legal experience to obtain maximum compensation,” he explains. That mindset informs the firm’s tone—professional but personal, rigorous yet empathetic.

A Legacy That Informs Values

Craig’s values are shaped by family history as much as formal education. He is a direct descendant of Richard Henry Lee, Bushrod Washington, and John Augustine Washington—brother of George Washington. This sense of lineage gives him a strong sense of responsibility to lead with principle.

That legacy plays out in daily operations, including the firm’s strict policies on client communication. “There is no ‘push 1 for accounting’ at Ashton & Price,” Craig said. “All important decisions are always made directly between our clients and their attorney.”

The personal nature of law, in Craig’s view, should never be lost to convenience or growth.

Building Systems That Serve

Ashton & Price’s ability to maintain high-touch service at scale is no accident. Craig led the development of a custom case-management platform that routes inquiries, tracks attorney follow-up, and secures document sharing. He also built a medical referral network to ensure injured clients receive expert care quickly.

Every system within the firm is designed to reduce friction while preserving client trust. From technology adoption to hiring decisions, Craig stays involved to ensure that growth supports the firm’s values.

Recognition That Reflects the Work

Craig’s impact has earned industry recognition. In 2024, he was named North America Attorney of the Year and California Attorney of the Year by Who’s Who Publishing. He was also inducted into the President’s Circle of the Top Attorneys of North America and honored by Lawyers of Distinction for Excellence. In 2023, he was named Attorney of the Year by Top 100 Lawyers.

But his proudest achievement isn’t tied to a title or award. “Just think of us as dad,” he says. “When the corporations or insurance companies are unfair, we force them to be fair with a formal lawsuit.”

That message captures the heart of his mission: protecting clients like family and advocating for fairness through clear, decisive action.