S. WARD HEINRICHS ESQ.
More than 40 Years of Legal & Military Leadership

A Legacy of Command and Counsel

Ward Heinrichs provides more than just legal advice; he provides a strategic advantage. A native San Diegan with over 35 years of local legal experience, Ward’s professional journey is defined by a commitment to discipline and excellence.

Before entering the courtroom, Ward served his country as an Artillery Officer in the United States Marine Corps. This military background, combined with an M.B.A. from the University of San Diego, allows him to view employment law through a unique lens: one of tactical precision and business sustainability.

 

The Resilience to Move Forward

Ward understands that for a business owner, a labor dispute is more than a legal hurdle—it is a high-stress "trauma" that can stall progress. He specializes in helping employers navigate these roadblocks with resilience. Whether defending against a complex class action or negotiating a sensitive severance package, Ward’s mission is to resolve the past so his clients can move forward without second thoughts.

 

Deep Local Roots. Statewide Authority.

As a mainstay of the San Diego legal community since 1992, Ward brings an "insider’s knowledge" to every case. He knows the local judges, the county administrative offices, and the specific legal customs of the region.

While his roots are in San Diego, he practices throughout Southern California, and has represented clients as far north as San Francisco. He maintains a vast, high-quality referral network to ensure that even if a case falls outside his specialty, his clients are always guided toward the right resource.

: San Diego Native Employment Lawyer Ward Heinrichs

Professional Credentials & Admissions

"With a foundation built on military service and three decades of legal practice, I provide the steady leadership and deep technical knowledge required to help employers move past legal obstacles and focus on their future."Ward Heinrichs, Esq.

Bar Admissions

- California, 1992
- U.S. District Court Southern District of California, 1992
- U.S. Court of Federal Claims, 1994
- U.S. District Court Northern District of California, 2010
- U.S. District Court Eastern District of California, 2010

Education

- University of San Diego School of Law, San Diego, California (J.D. – 1991)
- University of San Diego, San Diego, California (M.B.A. – 1991)
- Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Indiana (B.A. – 1983 | Honors: Dean’s List | Major: Philosophy)

Professional Associations

- San Diego County Bar
- California State Bar
- California Bar Association, Labor and Employment Section
- Kappa Sigma Fraternity Alumnus
- San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce

Ward Heinrichs Artillery Officer Marine Corps and USD MBA Graduate.

Past Military & Legal Positions

- Backstrom & Heinrichs (2004-2014)
- Puglia & Heinrichs, Partner (1996 – 2000)
- United States Marine Corps, Lieutenant / Artillery Officer (1983 – 1987)

 

“Ward Heinrichs handled my requests quickly and professionally. He was able to secure improvements in my severance package. More importantly, he helped me come to terms with my work situation which enabled me to move forward without any second thoughts. I would recommend Mr. Heinrichs to anyone seeking advice on employment law and/or navigating an employment transition.” — Thomas H.

Protecting Your Business Since 1992.

If you’re an employer in San Diego or Southern California looking to stay compliant and out of court, let’s talk.