Jeffrey S. Portnoy

Jeffrey S. Portnoy is a senior litigation partner at Cades Schutte LLP, where he has practiced law since 1972. With 50 years of experience, he has built a distinguished career in civil litigation and alternative dispute resolution, representing clients in cases involving insurance, employment, mass torts, product liability, and media law.

Portnoy earned his Juris Doctor from Duke University School of Law in 1972 after receiving his Bachelor of Arts from Syracuse University in 1969. His education laid the foundation for a robust legal career marked by leadership and advocacy. He previously chaired the firm’s Litigation Department and continues to serve as a leading voice in the legal profession across Hawai‘i and beyond.

Over his career, Portnoy has contributed extensively to the legal profession. He served as a Per Diem Judge, taught law as an adjunct professor at the University of Hawai‘i, and held leadership roles in organizations such as the Ninth Circuit Historical Society and the American Board of Trial Advocates. He has also advised the U.S. District Court and served on judicial selection and appellate representation committees.

Portnoy is a nationally recognized trial lawyer, earning multiple Best Lawyers® “Lawyer of the Year” awards in Insurance Law, Legal Malpractice Defense, and Bet-the-Company Litigation. Consistently ranked among the top litigators in Hawaiʻi and the United States, he has been featured in Who’s Who in America, Chambers & Partners USA, and Hawaiʻi Super Lawyers for his exceptional results and legal excellence.

In addition to his legal achievements, Jeffrey S. Portnoy has contributed to education and community service, including visiting professorships in Europe and board roles with Mothers Against Drunk Driving and the American Cancer Society. He also spent nearly three decades as a color analyst for the University of Hawai‘i basketball and led Manoa Valley Theatre’s Board for 25 years, demonstrating his deep commitment to civic and cultural life.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Cades Schutte LLP
• Hawai‘i Chapter President, American Board of Trial Advocates
• Member, Honolulu Civil Service Commission
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Hawai‘i Defense Lawyers Association
• Member, Media Defense Resource Council

Licensed State

• Hawaii

Education

• Duke University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Syracuse University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges