Edward D. "Ed" Chapin

Edward D. Chapin: Leading Trial Lawyer in San Diego

Edward D. "Ed" Chapin is the Managing Partner in the San Diego office of Sanford Heisler Sharp, LLP, a nationally recognized law firm with offices in the District of Columbia, New York, California, Tennessee, and Maryland. With over 45 years of experience, Mr. Chapin is a veteran litigator dedicated to providing exceptional legal counsel to clients facing complex legal challenges. He’s consistently recognized as a top attorney, holding prestigious rankings with Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers since 1989, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to excellence and a proven track record of success.

Mr. Chapin’s practice spans a broad range of litigation areas, including commercial litigation, consumer protection law, litigation – labor and employment, mass tort litigation / class actions – plaintiffs, and personal injury litigation – plaintiffs. He specializes in handling challenging cases such as bad faith, toxic torts, serious personal injury, wrongful death, insurance coverage disputes, and unfair business practices. His deep understanding of these areas, combined with his strategic approach and tireless advocacy, ensures clients receive the strongest possible representation.

Driven by a strong sense of justice and a commitment to his community, Mr. Chapin leverages his extensive military service and long-standing relationships in San Diego to deliver exemplary counsel. He’s taken more than 100 cases to trial in both federal and state courts, consistently achieving favorable outcomes for his clients. His strategic courtroom skills and ability to connect with juries are hallmarks of his practice.

Notable Case Results: Mr. Chapin’s career is marked by several landmark victories. Perhaps most famously, he secured a nearly $13 million award in the highly publicized GirlsDoPorn.com civil lawsuit. Representing 22 female plaintiffs across the U.S., the case involved allegations of exploitation by the website's owners and operators. The court’s ruling not only awarded substantial compensation to the plaintiffs but also granted them the rights to their videos and issued a permanent injunction prohibiting the defendants from distributing their likenesses. Furthermore, the defendants were compelled to remove all videos produced and posted online featuring the plaintiffs. Midway through the trial, the defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury on sex trafficking charges, two of whom are currently in custody, while one remains a fugitive – a testament to the serious nature of the allegations and the dedication of the legal team.

In 2018, Mr. Chapin successfully secured final approval of a $4 million settlement for Beth Burns, the winningest coach in San Diego State University’s women’s basketball history. This jury trial, focused on SDSU’s Title IX violations, highlighted his ability to represent individuals against powerful institutions and hold them accountable for causing damage to careers and well-being. This case exemplifies his strategic litigation acumen and commitment to advocating for those who have been wronged.

Leadership and Community Involvement: Beyond his courtroom successes, Mr. Chapin is a respected leader within the legal community and the broader San Diego area. He has been actively involved in the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) for many years, chairing committees that developed critical principles of civility and protocols for responding to unfair media criticism of judges. He’s frequently recognized by ABOTA, including the 2019 Benchmark Litigation Labor & Employment Star – West and the 2020 Lawdragon 500 Plaintiff Employment Lawyer designation. His contributions to ABOTA are deeply rooted in his commitment to ethical practice and upholding the integrity of the legal profession.

Education and Credentials: Mr. Chapin’s qualifications are impeccable. He is admitted to practice law in California and holds a strong academic record. He’s consistently recognized by leading legal organizations, including being named one of the Top 50 San Diego Super Lawyers for 2008, 2009, 2015, 2017-2018, and receiving recognition in Best Attorney USA since 1989.

Key Affiliations and Recognitions:

• National Board of Directors of American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), 1989 – 2010
• Chaired committees which developed the ABOTA Principles of Civility
• Chaired committees which developed the ABOTA Protocol for Responding to Unfair Media Criticism of Judges
• 2019 Benchmark Litigation Labor & Employment Star - West
• 2019 National Law Journal Employment Trailblazer
• Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 1989

Contact Information: Contact Edward D. Chapin today to discuss your legal needs and explore how his expertise can help you achieve the best possible outcome.