Willard Shih

Willard C. Shih is a senior member of the firm’s Commercial Litigation practice and a nationally recognized trial lawyer, routinely entrusted by clients ranging from an international company with operations across multiple continents to businesspersons who serve their local communities, all in high-stakes, complex business disputes.

He is one of only a few attorneys in the State of New Jersey whose advocacy excellence has resulted in recognition across three highly-regarded sources: as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers (an invitation-only organization reserved for the top trial lawyers in the United States and Canada), as a Civil Trial Attorney certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey, and as a member of the New Jersey Super Lawyers “Top 100” list.

Combining a sophisticated reach of a national platform with a direct, pragmatic approach of a seasoned senior advisor, Will represents clients across a broad spectrum of sophisticated commercial matters, including trade secrets and restrictive covenant litigation, business owner disputes, unfair competition and similar statutory claims, and other intricate business claims. He is particularly sought after for matters involving closely held and family-owned businesses, where litigation at times intersects with probate and family court proceedings and requires both technical precision and strategic sensitivity. He makes it a point to master the nuances of his clients’ businesses, particularly in technically complex or highly specialized areas, allowing him to develop practical, credible, and results-oriented litigation strategies.

In addition, Will has extensive experience defending law firms and other professionals in claims involving professional liability, including professional negligence, breach of fiduciary duty, and intentional tort. He is particularly adroit with litigation involving the rules of professional conduct, having served as the Chair of the District VIII ethics committee in the State of New Jersey, appointed by its Supreme Court to that position. He has represented national, regional, and local law firms and attorneys in civil litigation and ethics grievances.

Beyond his client work, Will has played a significant leadership role in the legal profession. By appointment of the New Jersey Supreme Court, he has served on its Civil Practice Committee, Rules of Evidence Committee, and Committee on Complementary Dispute Resolution, while also serving as Panel Chair of a Fee Arbitration Committee, all of which reflect his deep commitment to the integrity and advancement of the profession.