The Chapman Law Group

David T. Chapman, a distinguished San Francisco litigation attorney and CEO of Chapman Law Group, provides exceptional legal representation in state and federal courts across California. His extensive expertise spans industries such as biotechnology, commercial real estate, oil & gas, and insurance. Known for navigating complex regulatory and litigation matters, Chapman is a trusted advocate for businesses and individuals seeking strategic legal solutions in high-stakes disputes.

With a proven track record, Chapman has secured multi-million-dollar settlements in commercial disputes and favorable rulings in employment law cases. His meticulous preparation and appellate advocacy, honed as a law clerk for the California Supreme Court, ensure robust representation in appeals and complex litigation. Admitted to the California Supreme Court, Ninth Circuit, and multiple U.S. District Courts, he handles diverse cases, including contract disputes, consumer rights, environmental issues, and personal injury, delivering results-driven outcomes.

Chapman’s J.D. from Santa Clara University School of Law, where he graduated with honors, and numerous awards underscore his excellence. As a member of the American Bar Association and local bar associations, he remains dedicated to providing expert legal services in San Francisco and beyond.

Jim Reilly brings a unique trifecta of expertise in criminal law, having served as a DA investigator, prosecutor, and public defender. This diverse background allows him to anticipate police investigations during the pre-file stage, providing strategic advice to clients. When preparing for trial, his prosecutorial insight enables him to identify and exploit weaknesses in the state's case, ensuring a robust defense.

With over 200 cases taken to trial across criminal, restraining order, civil, and juvenile dependency matters, Jim demonstrates exceptional courtroom prowess. He has also drafted and won an appellate case, securing a prestigious published decision in the Second District Appellate Court (Wood v. San Francisco Superior Court A168463). His advocacy spans a wide range of charges, from DUIs, assaults, and domestic violence to serious felonies like grand theft, kidnapping, and sex crimes, consistently achieving remarkable outcomes.

As a Deputy Attorney General and environmental prosecutor, Jim tackled major polluters, recovering $27 million in penalties for the state, and contributed to the Attorney General’s Sexually Violent Predator Appeal Task Force. Transitioning to public defender, he aggressively represented hundreds of clients in cases involving DUIs, drug offenses, and assaults, solidifying his reputation as a dedicated, results-driven attorney.

Hee Jae Chung is a skilled California business and intellectual property attorney at Chapman Law Group, providing strategic legal support to small businesses and entrepreneurs. Specializing in business law, intellectual property, corporate governance, and commercial disputes, she expertly handles contract drafting, trademark and licensing agreements, and business litigation. Her focus on clarity and results ensures clients achieve their objectives with confidence.

With five years at leading Japanese law firms, Hee Jae advised on cross-border transactions and IP matters, including patent applications and data protection compliance. Her global perspective, fluency in Korean, and conversational Japanese and Thai allow her to navigate complex, diverse markets. Her participation in international arbitration and negotiation competitions honed her skills in trademark law and commercial transactions, making her a versatile advocate for clients.

Admitted to the California State Bar in 2024, Hee Jae earned an LL.M. from UC Berkeley School of Law and studied at Nagoya University and Keio University. Contact Chapman Law Group to leverage her expertise in business formation, IP licensing, or litigation support for your legal needs.

Denise A. Carruth, a Senior Paralegal at Chapman Law Group in Alameda County, California, offers over 30 years of legal expertise, specializing in litigation support, jury trials, and complex civil litigation. Her extensive experience includes working with top Northern California law firms on high-profile cases such as mass toxic-tort groundwater contamination, real estate disputes, product liability, and family law matters. Denise’s precision and dedication ensure clients receive exceptional support navigating challenging legal proceedings.

After earning her paralegal credentials from American River College, Denise founded an independent paralegal business in 1995, focusing on legal document preparation for divorce, child custody, bankruptcy, and estate planning cases. Her reputation for meticulous client care has made her a trusted professional. As a registered Legal Document Assistant and active member of CALDA and NALA, she upholds the highest standards of professionalism and expertise.

Denise’s passion for providing empathetic and effective legal support services shines at Chapman Law Group. Her commitment to client success, combined with her deep knowledge of civil litigation and family law, makes her an invaluable asset for those seeking reliable legal assistance in Alameda County and beyond.

Kelli Davis brings over 30 years of experience to her role as a certified paralegal and accountant, providing essential support to attorneys across a broad spectrum of legal matters. While she specializes in estate planning, probate and trust administration, trust and estate litigation, fiduciary accountings, and real estate transactions, Ms. Davis also has extensive background in civil litigation, settlements, family law, unlawful detainers, bankruptcy, LLC formations, marital settlement agreements (MSAs), and QDROs. Her wide-ranging background enables her to contribute effectively in both transactional and litigation settings.

In addition to her legal work, Ms. Davis is highly regarded for her accounting expertise in complex fiduciary matters. She regularly prepares court-approved probate and trust accountings and is adept at managing detailed financial records to ensure accuracy, transparency, and compliance with statutory requirements.

Ms. Davis has completed college-level coursework in business and accounting, along with specialized training in estate planning, real estate, and paralegal studies. She continues to expand her professional knowledge with a focus on probate law, trust law, trust administration, and fiduciary responsibilities.

Ryan Mirdadian Jr. is a skilled paralegal at Chapman Law Group, A.P.C., a leading San Rafael law firm specializing in criminal defense, civil litigation, and personal injury. With over two years of experience, Ryan excels in legal research, case management, and trial preparation, supporting attorneys with motion practice, discovery, and mediation. His attention to detail and ability to handle complex case files make him a vital part of the firm’s commitment to delivering exceptional legal services in Marin County and beyond.

A graduate of the University of California, Santa Cruz, Ryan earned a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies with Highest Honors, showcasing his dedication to legal scholarship. His unique mentorship under his grandmother, a retired Superior Court Justice from Marin and San Francisco Counties, provides him with deep insights into judicial reasoning and courtroom procedures, enhancing his contributions to client cases.

Ryan has taken the LSAT and is applying to top law schools, including UC Berkeley and UCLA, with the goal of earning a J.D. and becoming a practicing attorney, further strengthening his foundation in legal advocacy at Chapman Law Group.

Jack McSweeney is a skilled paralegal at Chapman Law Group whose background in writing, research, and nonprofit development informs his precise and thoughtful approach to legal work.

Jack earned his B.A. in Literature, with a concentration in Creative Writing and a minor in Film and Digital Media Studies, from the University of California, Santa Cruz, graduating cum laude. In addition to his paralegal work, he serves as Development Coordinator and Board Member for the literary arts nonprofit Oyster River Pages, where he leads grant research, fundraising strategy, and community outreach initiatives. He also volunteers as a Mentor Editor with the Prison Journalism Project, supporting incarcerated writers across the U.S. through one-on-one editorial mentorship.

Conversational in Spanish, Jack’s multidisciplinary background strengthens his ability to conduct thorough legal research, prepare detailed documentation, and communicate effectively with diverse clients. His combination of creativity, precision, and commitment to social impact make him a valuable asset to the Chapman Law Group team.

Robert is a legal administrative assistant at Chapman Law Group where he strives for efficiency, thoroughness, and attention to detail as he assists with legal research and case management. He supports attorneys with document preparation, client communication, and administrative tasks.

He recently obtained a master’s degree in computer science from Fordham University with a 4.0 GPA. This background helps him provide insight into tech related cases. Prior to this, Robert attended the University of Edinburgh and obtained an integrated master’s in philosophy and mathematics. In particular, his philosophy studies have helped prepare him for the kind of precise writing and arguments that are key to succeeding in law.

Robert grew up in Marin County where his father has practiced law for over 30 years. This early exposure to the field sparked his interest in law from a young age. He has prospects of attending law school in the future and values the legal experience he is gaining at CLG.

Theo, a San Francisco native, serves as a legal administrative assistant at Chapman Law Group, a premier San Francisco law firm, where they excel in delivering legal support services. With a degree in Political Science from Colorado State University, earned cum laude, and minors in Economics and Legal Studies, Theo honed advocacy and analytical skills through Mock Trial and Pi Sigma Alpha Honor Society, enhancing their ability to conduct precise legal research and streamline case management.

Since joining Chapman Law Group in November 2024, Theo supports attorneys and paralegals with meticulous administrative coordination, document preparation, and client communication, ensuring efficient legal processes. Their prior work with Colorado government officials and San Francisco Bay Area nonprofits sharpened their detail-oriented approach, making them integral to the firm’s high-quality legal services and client-focused mission.

Outside the office, Theo balances their dedication to legal administration with an active lifestyle, enjoying weightlifting, skiing, outdoor activities, and family time, which complements their professional commitment at Chapman Law Group.

Danny Wright is an Administrative Practice Assistant and Marin County native who studied History at the University of California, Santa Cruz. His background in history fostered a deep appreciation for the legal and social foundations that shape society, while his travels and cross-cultural upbringing broadened his understanding of the world and the diverse perspectives within it. Danny’s sense of justice runs deep, passed down through generations of his family, and is inspired by his grandfather, a civil rights activist whose legacy continues to influence Danny’s values. These experiences inform the empathy, curiosity, and integrity he brings to his work every day.

Naturally inquisitive and well-rounded, Danny draws on a broad range of interests. As our client intake specialist, he approaches each interaction with thoughtfulness and curiosity. His adaptability and diverse perspective allow him to connect with clients from all walks of life and support the firm’s mission of care, respect, and professionalism.

Hannah Gothelf, Legal Assistant at Chapman Law Group, has shown remarkable dedication to legal services since joining the firm in May 2024. Starting as a legal intern, she swiftly advanced to Legal Assistant, contributing to impactful public-interest initiatives. Her work includes drafting Senate Concurrent Resolutions and collaborating on House Resolutions tackling pressing issues such as wildfires, affordable housing, and climate education, showcasing her ability to address complex legal challenges effectively.

Her passion for using the law to benefit communities stems from her Marin County roots and is reinforced by her robust academic background. Currently in her final year at Pitzer College, Hannah is pursuing a BA in Political Studies and International Relations. Her studies in international law at the University of St Andrews have further enriched her legal expertise, enabling her to offer well-rounded support to clients.

Hannah’s perseverance shines through both professionally and personally, as she balances her career with an active lifestyle that includes dance, hiking, yoga, and long-distance running. This discipline and commitment enhance her capacity to deliver exceptional legal assistance at Chapman Law Group.

Mary Owens, a seasoned legal professional, joined Chapman Law Group in September 2021, bringing extensive expertise from her career in prestigious law firms across California. With a background in Liberal Arts and Sciences and membership in the Alpha Gamma Sigma Honor Society, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence. Her educational foundation and early dedication set the stage for a robust legal career.

For a decade, Mary worked at Corinblit & Seltzer in Los Angeles, contributing to landmark securities fraud litigations such as ZZZZ Best and Equity Funding, sharpening her skills in handling complex legal challenges. She later gained valuable experience in San Francisco at Nossaman Guthner Knox and Elliot, followed by nine years at Brown & Wood—later part of Sidley Austin Brown & Wood—further enhancing her legal acumen across diverse environments.

At Chapman Law Group, Mary leverages her multifaceted experience to deliver exceptional legal support, case management, and client advocacy. Her comprehensive background enables her to provide top-notch services, making her a trusted advisor for clients seeking effective legal solutions.

Svetlana Lolua, SCP-SHRM, joined Chapman Law Group in May 2022 as Office and HR Manager, bringing extensive experience in human resources and office administration. With a leadership style rooted in adaptability and collaboration, she fosters inclusive, high-performing teams and drives growth through effective HR strategies, including recruitment, benefits, compliance, and culture development. Her expertise in streamlining office operations, managing accounting, and maintaining corporate records enhances the firm’s efficiency as a leading San Francisco law firm.

Svetlana holds a Paralegal Certificate and A.A. in Business from City College of San Francisco, and graduated cum laude with a B.S. in International Business and a B.A. in Criminal Justice from San Francisco State University. A member of Alpha Gamma Sigma and Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Societies, she earned her SHRM Senior Professional Certification in 2016, solidifying her HR expertise.

Born in Kiev, Ukraine, Svetlana is fluent in Ukrainian and Russian and is passionate about civic engagement, having volunteered in elections and served as a juror. She enjoys traveling with her twin, exploring museums, reading David Sedaris, and relaxing with her cats in San Francisco.

Seiko Nozaki, Director of Administration and Controller at Chapman Law Group, has been pivotal in enhancing the firm’s ability to deliver exceptional legal services since joining in 2012. With over a decade of experience, she has driven operational excellence by implementing innovative technological solutions and streamlining client billing and administrative processes. Her leadership fosters a productive, inclusive environment, ensuring the firm attracts top talent to meet clients’ legal needs in San Francisco.

Seiko’s background in graphic design and project management equips her to master legal applications and platforms, optimizing the firm’s operations. Her creative problem-solving and commitment to building trusting client relationships strengthen Chapman Law Group’s reputation for client-focused legal support. By overseeing financial sustainability and supporting business development, Seiko ensures the firm remains a leader in providing high-quality legal representation.

Originally from Yokohama, Japan, and a graduate of Economics, Seiko’s diverse experience, including work with major Bay Area brands, enhances her business acumen. Her dedication to operational efficiency and client satisfaction makes her an integral part of Chapman Law Group’s mission to deliver unparalleled legal services.