S. WARD HEINRICHS ESQ.
San Diego Employment Attorney & Employer Defense
I Listen First. I Solve Fast. I Have Your Back.
Running a business in California is hard enough without the threat of a lawsuit.
I’m Ward Heinrichs, an employment attorney dedicated to helping small and mid-sized employers protect what they’ve built.
For over three decades, I’ve been in the trenches—first as a United States Marine Corps officer and later as a strategic defender for business owners.
I thrive on the complex details of wage and hour law so that you don't have to. I am here to help you resolve legal "trauma" and move forward with a clear path.
The Hard Truth About California Employment Law
Few employers are able to meet all their obligations under the law—often simply because they aren't aware of recent changes. Don't let problems fester. Whether your issue is large or small, the sooner you act, the better the outcome for your business.
OUR SERVICES
Leveraging more than thirty years of legal experience and military discipline, the Employment Law Office of Ward Heinrichs provides strategic defense for California's business community.
Litigation & Class Action Defense
From complex wage and hour disputes to wrongful termination defense, we act as your shield in both Federal and State courts. We provide aggressive, high-stakes representation for employers facing Class Action and PAGA claims.
Strategic Compliance & Business Advice
Prevention is the best defense. We help you navigate the "trauma" of California’s ever-changing regulations through employee wage audits, independent contractor (AB5) reviews, workplace policy & procedure analysis, and strategic severance negotiations.
Government Agency Representation
When your business is called before the Labor Commissioner (DLSE), the EDD, or the EEOC, you need a defender who speaks their language. We represent you before the DLSE, EDD, EEOC, CRD (formerly DFEH), and the Department of Labor.
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.
“Ward Heinrichs is professional and approachable. His work ethic and follow-through are excellent. I found Ward a pleasure to work with and could rely on him to provide sound, well-researched legal advice.” Dorothy Sorensen, SPHR/GPHR, Crown HR Solutions
PERSONAL SERVICE. UNIQUE SOLUTIONS.
Unlike many attorneys, Ward gives personal service to each employer he represents. He listens to your unique situation and finds effective solutions based on your specific circumstances—not a one-size-fits-all legal template.
Ward leverages deep local knowledge and a strong referral network to benefit his clients in courts throughout the state.