Erich P. Wise - Long Beach, CA

Five Decades of Admiralty and Business Litigation Leadership

Recognized as a leading authority on admiralty law, Erich P. Wise brings more than fifty years of legal experience to corporate clients. After graduating cum laude from Harvard University in 1970 and receiving his law degree from the University of Chicago in 1974, Erich clerked for the Honorable Malcolm Lucas, federal judge for the Central District of California. Following years as a partner at Graham & James, he co-founded Flynn, Delich & Wise LLP in 1993. Based at One World Trade Center in Long Beach, Erich represents ocean carriers, marine terminals, and transportation enterprises. When corporations need to hire an attorney with admiralty knowledge and appellate experience, Erich P. Wise provides unmatched authority.

High-Stakes Business Litigation and Commercial Contract Disputes

Functioning as one of Southern California's premier business litigation lawyers and contract lawyers, Erich represents clients in complex commercial litigation, arbitrations, and contract disputes. As an authority on marine terminal agreements, he drafts and negotiates operating agreements, leases, and tariff rules. When contractual disputes threaten supply chains and clients need an urgent attorney to seek emergency injunctive relief, Erich acts swiftly to safeguard commercial interests.

Admiralty, Maritime Law, and Marine Casualties

With comprehensive experience in admiralty law, Erich navigates vessel collisions, groundings, salvage claims, general average, and cargo claims under the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act. He handles complex liabilities arising from maritime incidents, representing shipowners and charterers in state and federal courts. His familiarity with maritime liens and limitation of liability ensures clients receive authoritative representation.

Intermodal Transportation and Roadability Regulations

Moving cargo across rail, sea, and highway involves complex intermodal regulations. Erich counsels intermodal equipment providers, chassis leasing companies, and motor carriers on federal roadability compliance. Serving as a knowledgeable resource for transportation and truck accident lawyers, he advises on chassis maintenance liability, equipment interchange agreements, and casualty defense.

Marine Environmental Litigation and Air Quality Compliance

Erich has litigated landmark environmental cases for the maritime industry, including Ninth Circuit appeals challenging state vessel fuel rules and Clean Air Act preemption. He counsels vessel operators on Oil Pollution Act liabilities and emissions standards. Clients who seek to find a lawyer capable of managing complex environmental investigations receive sophisticated guidance backed by decades of experience.

Catastrophic Casualty and Wrongful Death Defense

When severe industrial or maritime casualties occur, Erich defends maritime employers, terminal operators, and underwriters. Working alongside dedicated wrongful death lawyers and accident and injury lawyers, he provides formidable defense in high-exposure personal injury lawsuits, Jones Act actions, and maritime fatal accident litigation.

Distinctions and Accolades of Erich P. Wise

Clients and peers throughout the maritime community trust Erich P. Wise for his scholarly precision and trial acumen. Key distinctions include:

• Over 50 years of distinguished legal practice in California state and federal courts
• Co-founder of Flynn, Delich & Wise LLP, a premier West Coast maritime litigation boutique
• Harvard University and University of Chicago Law School alumnus with federal clerkship
• Author of authoritative maritime law publications and frequent international lecturer
• AV Preeminent peer-review rating by Martindale-Hubbell reflecting the highest legal ability

Whether resolving complex maritime casualties, negotiating commercial contracts, or defending federal environmental claims, businesses wishing to consult an experienced lawyer can rely on Erich P. Wise for insightful, results-driven counsel.