Meet John Spatafore
John A. Spatafore


John A. Spatafore is the founder of Spatafore & Grant and a Certified Workers’ Compensation Law Specialist. He has represented injured workers on California’s Central Coast for more than four decades and helped establish the firm’s longstanding commitment to personal service, practical advice, and strong advocacy.
Throughout his career, John represented workers from many different professions whose lives and livelihoods were affected by workplace injuries and occupational illnesses. His experience includes complex medical, disability, return-to-work, and settlement issues within California’s workers’ compensation system.
John remains a licensed California attorney and an important part of the firm’s history and identity. His experience and example helped shape the firm’s approach to representing injured workers and continue to influence its work today.
John has also been involved in the San Luis Obispo community through professional, civic, and nonprofit organizations. Outside the office, he enjoys spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Education and Credentials
- Admitted to the State Bar of California in 1978
- Certified Workers’ Compensation Law Specialist since 1985
- Juris Doctor, University of San Francisco School of Law
- Undergraduate degree, University of San Francisco
- Founder of Spatafore & Grant
Community Leadership and Recognition
John has served the San Luis Obispo community through numerous civic, educational, business, and nonprofit organizations. His service has included leadership roles with the San Luis Coastal Unified School District, San Luis Obispo Downtown Association, YMCA, AYSO, San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce, City of San Luis Obispo commissions, and the San Luis Obispo Youth Sports Association.
His community recognition includes:
- 2015 San Luis Obispo Citizen of the Year
- Distinguished Service Award, Phi Delta Kappa
- R.H. Jansen Award for contributions to youth sports