Susan Purtill joined the Grasso Law Firm as a partner in 2005. Her current practice focuses on governmental liability and personal injury defense.

Ms. Purtill has substantial jury trial experience, in both federal court and state court, with an emphasis on excessive force allegations against law enforcement. Ms. Purtill is also a successful appellate lawyer, having argued and won numerous cases in both state and federal court over the last twenty-plus years.

Prior to joining the Grasso Law Firm, Ms. Purtill practiced at the Maricopa County Attorney's Office, Civil Division, defending various claims brought against the County. Specifically, Ms. Purtill defended medical malpractice, excessive force, wrongful death, and general personal injury claims brought against the County's various entities, including the Sheriff's Office. While at the County Attorney's Office, Ms. Purtill was actively involved with the task force responding to officer - involved shootings.

Ms. Purtill began her practice in Arizona in 1992, where she started her career with a large law firm, practicing in the area of personal injury defense.

Education

J.D., University of Toledo College of Law

B.A., Denison University

Court Admissions

All Arizona Courts

U.S. District Court, District of Arizona

Professional Activities

Board Member, Maricopa County Victim’s Compensation Board, 2000-

CLE Instructor, seminars sponsored by the Arizona Prosecuting Attorneys Association, 1997-2004

Professional Memberships

State Bar of Arizona

State Bar of Michigan

Maricopa County Bar Association: Task Force on Recruitment and Retention of Women and Minorities

Arizona Women Lawyers Association: Past President, Maricopa Chapter

Community Involvement

Ms. Purtill is a member of the Arizona Women’s Board, the sponsor of the “Authors Luncheon”, which continues to be the most successful author event in the country and allows the Board to continue the legacy of Erma Bombeck and her fight against kindney disease. Ms. Purtill has also served as a Girl Scout Leader for the last six years.