By: Lindsay Jeffords
For Craig Fontaine Ashton, the famous name he bears comes with responsibility rather than privilege. He often says, “Craig Fontaine Ashton cannot tell a lie,” echoing the legendary honesty of his direct 6th generation great uncle, George Washington. These words serve as a daily compass for how he practices law and lives his life.
Rather than protecting a legacy, Craig chooses to live by its values. He speaks with purpose, acts decisively, and consistently puts people first. His guiding principle in law is simple: justice must be practiced, not just referenced.
Clarity as a Legal Standard
Craig’s advocacy style stands out for its simplicity and directness. In a field often clouded by legal jargon, his approach prioritizes clear, honest communication with clients and colleagues alike. “People don’t want spin,” he often says. “They want to know who’s fighting for them and why.”
This belief in transparency comes from both his upbringing and his commitment to accountability. Whether he’s walking a client through recovery or confronting an insurance company, Craig remains focused on making the legal process approachable and human.
Winning with Narrative, Not Just Law
While some attorneys rely on procedural detail, Craig builds compelling narratives rooted in the human experience. His academic background in history gives him insight into motive, conflict, and consequence—tools he applies effectively in the courtroom. His legal writing often reads like a story with depth, not just a list of facts.
Craig once described the courtroom as a “modern-day theater of truth,” where facts only matter if they’re framed with empathy and logic. His ability to humanize complex legal issues has consistently turned challenging personal injury cases into compelling victories.
Mentorship with Purpose
At Ashton & Price, mentorship isn’t left to chance or formality. Craig is directly involved in training the next generation of attorneys. “All important decisions are always made directly between our clients and their attorney. No exceptions,” he says. That standard shapes how he interacts not only with clients, but also with junior lawyers on his team.
He emphasizes the importance of active listening, discovering the human story behind each case, and staying grounded in core values. Through speaking engagements, podcasts, and co-hosting The All Things Legal Show, Craig is helping new lawyers grow with integrity and clarity.
Embracing Technology for Human-Centered Practice
Craig has welcomed technology into his practice with a focus on improving client interaction. At Ashton & Price, legal tech tools streamline file access, communication, and updates so clients stay informed and involved.
This efficiency allows Craig to spend more time with clients and be better prepared in court. It also expands the firm’s geographic reach without compromising personal service. For Craig, that’s what responsible legal innovation looks like—technology used to deepen trust, not diminish it.
Lessons from Sport: Focus, Endurance, and Precision
Craig’s experience competing in Ironman triathlons has shaped how he approaches law—with focus, adaptability, and long-term commitment. Training for 140.6-mile events in places like Lake Taupo and Barcelona required physical strength, but more importantly, mental clarity under pressure.
He approaches legal cases the same way: not as short sprints, but as marathons that demand strategic planning and resilience. “When our clients are reconnected with hope and healing, we bring our legal experience to secure full compensation,” he explains. His method is about guiding people through the journey, not just delivering results.
Putting Clients First, Always
What Craig doesn’t often talk about, but you can see it in his eyes, is how personally he takes client suffering. He remembers names and stories, not just case numbers. He often refers to families, not just injuries. That personal investment is what fuels his dedication.
When a case is won, it brings closure. When it’s lost, it brings reflection. While Craig’s courtroom reputation is built on successful verdicts, his impact is measured by the people who say, “He saw me. He stood by me. He made it fair.”
Staying Grounded While Expanding Reach
Craig Fontaine Ashton continues to grow Ashton & Price’s presence across California while maintaining his hands-on leadership style. He mentors new attorneys, implements thoughtful technology, and shares insights through The All Things Legal Show.
His practice reflects a principle rooted in history and made modern through daily action: justice is something that must be earned and protected—client by client, story by story.
