Lecturer Bio
Cherelle T. Griner, Esq.
Listed as one of 40 "power players who shaped the intersection of race, culture, politics and policy" in 2023 by POLITICO, Attorney Cherelle T. Griner is a trailblazer in her field—combining innovative legal strategies with a deep commitment to empowering clients and protecting their rights. Her sharp legal acumen and meticulous attention to detail allow her to anticipate challenges, craft innovative strategies, and deliver results that protect her clients and their assets. She is the Principal and Founder of Griner Law Firm, where her practice focuses primarily on trademark, intellectual property, and entertainment law—helping creators, entrepreneurs, and businesses build, protect, and monetize their brands and creative works.
Griner graduated cum laude from North Carolina Central University School of Law—where she worked in the Juvenile Law Clinic providing legal representation for youth, externed for Legal Aid of North Carolina as an advocate for Children Services, interned for the Arizona Department of Juvenile Corrections and Snow Legal Group—where she provided criminal defense for homicide and possession.
Deeply committed to pro bono service and community engagement, Griner has held numerous leadership roles—including 1L Class Body President, Vice President for the Pro Bono Council and Restorative Justice Council, Treasurer of the Black Law Students Association, Teen Court Mentor, and Guardian Ad Litem. Her dedication to service and community earned her the North Carolina State Bar's 2022 Pro Bono Student Award, reflecting her belief in restorative and holistic justice. Among many other honors, Griner has been recognized with the ACLU SOCAL Bill of Rights Award and the Human Rights Campaign Atlanta Impact Award.
