James Heiting

James Otto Heiting is a highly accomplished California trial attorney and the managing partner of Heiting & Irwin, APLC, where he focuses on complex civil litigation throughout the state. With a legal career spanning nearly five decades, he is widely recognized for his extensive courtroom experience, leadership within the legal profession, and a long record of successful outcomes in high-stakes cases involving wrongful death, catastrophic injury, and negligence claims.

Mr. Heiting earned his Juris Doctor in the mid-1970s and has been practicing law since 1976. He is admitted to practice before all California state courts, multiple federal courts, the United States Court of Federal Claims, and the California and United States Supreme Courts. Over the course of his career, he has handled civil litigation matters across a broad spectrum, helping secure hundreds of millions of dollars in recoveries for injured clients and their families.

A defining feature of Mr. Heiting’s career is his leadership within the legal community. He is the only past president of the State Bar of California ever elected from the Inland Empire, a distinction that reflects both his professional stature and the respect he has earned among his peers. He has also served as president of the Riverside County Bar Association and held positions on the State Bar’s Board of Governors, contributing to the development of policies and standards that shape the practice of law across California.

In addition to his litigation work, Mr. Heiting has played a significant role in mentoring and supporting other legal professionals. He is a co-founder of the Leo A. Deegan Inn of Court, an organization dedicated to the education and training of attorneys, and a charter member of the Inland Empire Federal Bar Association. His service also extends to national organizations, including appointments by the American Bar Association to leadership roles focused on lawyer assistance programs and professional well-being.

Mr. Heiting’s experience is not limited to the courtroom. He has served as a judge pro tem and is frequently called upon to act as a mediator and arbitrator in both state and appellate courts, helping parties resolve disputes efficiently outside of trial when appropriate. He is also a sought-after speaker and lecturer, contributing his insight and experience to legal and community organizations across the country.

Throughout his career, James Otto Heiting has built a reputation for legal excellence, ethical leadership, and a commitment to achieving meaningful results for his clients. His combination of trial skill, professional service, and dedication to the advancement of the legal field has made him a respected figure in California’s legal community and a trusted advocate for those facing serious and complex legal challenges.