Richard N. Shapiro

Richard N. Shapiro is a nationally recognized trial attorney with more than three decades of experience in personal injury law. He represents clients across Virginia, North Carolina, and the Southeastern United States in cases involving wrongful death, trucking accidents, railroad claims, defective products, and medical malpractice. His tireless advocacy has resulted in more than $100 million in settlements and verdicts.

Richard earned his law degree with distinction from George Mason University School of Law, where he served on the Law Review and published legal scholarship. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, North Carolina, West Virginia, Washington, D.C., and before the U.S. Supreme Court, along with numerous federal courts. He is also board-certified in civil trial advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, an ABA-accredited certification.

Over his career, Richard has won appeals before the Virginia Supreme Court, multiple state supreme courts, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. His case successes include a $2.5 million jury verdict in a defective product case and landmark appellate victories that reshaped personal injury law. His leadership roles include serving twice as chair of the American Association for Justice Railroad Law Section and president of the National Trial Lawyers’ Railroad Accident Division.

Richard N. Shapiro’s contributions to the legal field have earned him significant recognition, including being named a 2022 Leader in the Law by Virginia Lawyers Weekly, the NBTA President’s Award in 2023, and repeated inclusion in Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers. Known for his innovative approach, he combines his background as an inventor with trial strategy, giving him unique insight into product defect litigation. His career reflects an unwavering commitment to justice and client advocacy.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp
• Chair, American Association for Justice (Railroad Law section) (2013-2014 & 2005-2006)
• President, National Trial Lawyers Association (Railroad Accident Division) (2013-14)
• Member, Virginia Trial Lawyers Association

Licensed State

• Virginia
• North Carolina
• West Virginia
• Washington, D.C.

Education

• George Mason University Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Maryland
  Bachelor of Arts

Awards & Badges