Richard M. Wirtz

Richard M. Wirtz, the visionary behind Wirtz Law APC in San Diego, California, has carved a niche as one of the state's leading advocates for lemon law clients. His guiding principle is to relentlessly pursue the highest possible damages and civil penalties for his clients. 

Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Wirtz has harnessed his legal prowess to champion community justice and foster societal growth. Before launching his own firm in 1995, he bravely challenged Fortune 500 giants in major multimillion-dollar national class actions that addressed securities and consumer fraud, unfair trade practices, and intricate business dilemmas. In a notable chapter of his career, he defended the United Farm Workers union against wrongful boycott allegations during the twilight of Cesar Chavez’s life. Beyond the confines of the courtroom, he shares his legal insights on various local television and radio platforms. 

A scholar at heart, Mr. Wirtz earned his undergraduate degree in history from Knox College in 1984 and his J.D. from the University of San Diego School of Law in 1987. After obtaining his California bar license in 1988, his path to becoming a distinguished lemon law attorney was paved with his early work in class action cases and the establishment of Wirtz Law APC, initially dedicated to trademark, business and employment litigation.

For over three decades, Mr. Wirtz has been charting the complex terrain of legal battles in both state and federal courts, reaching far beyond local borders to a global stage. With fervor and dedication, he advocates for a wide range of clients, from everyday consumers and diligent employees to visionary entrepreneurs and dynamic businesses, no matter their size. His impressive journey through the courtroom has seen him face off against some of the most influential companies worldwide.

As Mr. Wirtz's reputation for courtroom success flourished, other firms began seeking his prowess in lemon law cases. His practice took a pivotal turn in 2014 when he became a go-to attorney for trying California Lemon Law cases for other firms. Known as a lawyer’s lawyer, he has even represented law firms themselves, continually striving to empower clients by reducing legal risks and enhancing successful outcomes. With a "Superb" rating on Avvo and an esteemed legal standing, he is AV Preeminent peer-review rated* through Martindale-Hubbell.

*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer-review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.