Once a towering figure in the legal world, Tom Girardi's journey from riches to rags is nothing short of a modern-day tragedy. Known for securing billion-dollar settlements, his name was once synonymous with success. But as the years rolled by, Girardi's financial empire crumbled under the weight of fraud allegations and personal mismanagement. Now, in 2025, we take a closer look at where his fortune stands and the dramatic events that brought him to this point.
Let’s dive into the story of a man who once stood at the pinnacle of legal success but now finds himself facing the consequences of his actions. It’s a tale of ambition, excess, and ultimately, the cost of losing sight of what truly matters.
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Table of Contents
Tom Girardi Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Thomas Vincent Girardi |
| Popular Name | Tom Girardi |
| Birth Date | June 3, 1939 |
| Age | 85 (as of 03/26/2025) |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | Loyola Marymount University, Loyola Law School, New York University |
| Marital Status | Separated |
| Spouse | Erika Jayne (m. 2000), Kathy Risner (m. 1993–1998), Karen Weitzul (m. 1964–1983) |
| Children | Thomas Tommy Zizzo |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Robert Girardi |
| Parents | Albert H. Girardi |
| Height (meters) | N/A |
| Net Worth | $100,000 |
| Source of Wealth | Legal career, contingency fees, settlements |
Where Does Tom Girardi Stand Financially in 2025?
Back in the day, Tom Girardi's net worth was estimated at a staggering $264 million. But after a series of fraud lawsuits, bankruptcy filings, and legal troubles, his financial picture has taken a nosedive. By 2025, his net worth has dwindled to a mere $100,000. It’s a shocking contrast when compared to his peers in the legal field, many of whom continue to thrive in wealth and success.
Girardi’s lavish lifestyle, which once included private jets, luxury homes, and multi-million-dollar legal fees, has all but vanished. The man who once lived like royalty now faces the harsh realities of his financial mismanagement. His embezzlement charges and subsequent legal battles have left him with little more than the clothes on his back.
Tom Girardi’s Wealth, Salary, and Financial Journey
From Humble Beginnings to Legal Titan
Tom Girardi’s rise to fame began with his innovative approach to contingency-based law. As a co-founder of Girardi & Keese, he became known for taking on high-stakes cases and securing massive settlements. His most famous case involved Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), where he won a $333 million settlement that inspired the blockbuster movie Erin Brockovich.
In 2007, Girardi represented victims in the $4.85 billion Vioxx settlement against Merck, further cementing his reputation as a powerhouse attorney. Over the years, his firm handled cases ranging from aviation accidents to toxic exposure, earning him millions in contingency fees. At his peak, Girardi’s annual earnings exceeded $100 million, driven by his cut from these monumental legal victories.
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The High Life: Girardi’s Extravagant Spending
Before his downfall, Girardi’s extravagant lifestyle was the stuff of legend. He owned a $10 million mansion in Pasadena, which he eventually sold for $7.5 million in 2022 to pay off debts. His collection of luxury items included two private jets, $9 million worth of jewelry, and $3 million in antiques.
He also poured $25 million into funding his ex-wife Erika Jayne’s entertainment business, a decision that would later become a major point of contention in lawsuits against him. Girardi’s penchant for extravagant spending ultimately contributed to his financial unraveling.
The Collapse: Fraud Allegations and Bankruptcy
By 2020, Girardi’s financial troubles came to light. A federal lawsuit accused him of embezzling settlement funds, including $2 million from victims of the Lion Air Flight 610 disaster. His once-thriving firm, Girardi & Keese, was forced into Chapter 7 bankruptcy, leaving both clients and colleagues in financial ruin.
Creditors lined up to sue him for millions, including former law partners claiming over $750,000 in unpaid debts. Security firms filed claims for $53,000 in unpaid bills, and his first wife pursued him for missed $10,000 monthly alimony payments. In court, Girardi admitted that he had once amassed $80 million but now had nothing to show for it.
Legal Repercussions: Disbarment and Criminal Charges
In 2022, Girardi was disbarred by the California State Bar after investigations revealed his firm had misused millions of dollars belonging to clients. The scandal was so severe that Loyola Law School removed his name from the “Thomas V. Girardi Chair in Consumer Protection Law.”
By 2023, Girardi faced criminal charges in both Los
