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Justin Sheldon

Partner

About Justin

Most recently, Justin played a critical role in supporting the landmark $360 million verdict against Cumberland Hospital and former medical director Dr. Daniel Davidow. In this widely publicized case, the Richmond Circuit Court jury found that Davidow had sexually abused multiple patients under the guise of medical examinations, while the hospital system failed to protect vulnerable youth in its care. The verdict, comprising $20 million in compensatory damages, $60 million in treble damages for violations of the Virginia Consumer Protection Act, and $40 million in punitive damages per plaintiff, marked a powerful stand against abuse within youth residential facilities. Breit Biniazan represents over 40 additional plaintiffs seeking over $930 million in claims against Cumberland Hospital and its parent company, UHS, Inc. This landmark case highlights the firm, and Justin’s, commitment to holding powerful institutions accountable and underscores his resolve to seek justice for victims.

After graduating cum laude from the University of Richmond School of Law in 2011, Justin Sheldon launched his legal career at a national firm specializing in high-stakes business litigation. Soon after, he moved to a boutique firm focused on auto products liability, working on trial teams for Porsche, Honda, Toyota, Kia, and Hyundai. During these early years, Justin honed his skills in defending against complex claims involving serious injuries and fatalities, gaining invaluable insight into corporate defense strategies.

Motivated by his compassion for victims, Justin pivoted to representing injury victims and their families. His background in defense proved to be an asset, equipping him to understand the strategies used by opposing counsel and strengthening his approach to plaintiff litigation. Justin quickly established himself as a powerful advocate, trying at least five jury trials annually. His relentless dedication to trial work led to a record-breaking $1,250,000 verdict in King William County, Virginia—the largest jury verdict in the county’s history.

Justin’s focus on cases involving abuse and neglect grew over time, particularly with nursing home residents who suffer due to corporate-driven negligence. Recognizing that many of these abuses stem from financial choices that prioritize profit over care, Justin has leveraged his business litigation background to tackle these complex cases head-on, securing justice for vulnerable clients and their families.

His dedication to protecting the rights of plaintiffs extends to high-stakes litigation beyond individual cases. Recently, he served as counsel in a major class action lawsuit, achieving a $38.2 million settlement on behalf of over 10,750 policyholders of Banner Life Insurance Co. and William Penn Life Insurance Co. The plaintiffs alleged that the companies unjustifiably raised the cost of insurance charges, benefiting shareholders at the expense of policyholders.

Justin’s dedication to trial preparation and continuous improvement has led to numerous million-dollar settlements and verdicts for his clients. Constantly seeking new ways to strengthen his representation, he is a frequent attendee of conferences on trial skills and strategy. Justin’s drive and dedication have earned him numerous accolades, including “Rising Star” by Virginia Super Lawyers® from 2015-2020, “Super Lawyer” since 2021, “Top 40 Under 40” by the National Trial Lawyers, the “Up & Coming Lawyer” award from Virginia Lawyers Weekly in 2021, and recognition by Best Lawyers® as “Ones to Watch” for 2022-2024 and Best Lawyer for 2025.

Outside the courtroom, Justin is devoted to his family, raising his three young sons with his wife, Laura. He considers this role his greatest responsibility and looks forward to guiding his sons toward lives of integrity and character.

Education
  • J.D., University of Richmond School of Law, cum laude
  • B.A., Roanoke College
Bar Admissions
  • Virginia
Previous Experience
  • Geoff McDonald & Associates
  • Spencer, LLP
  • LeClairRyan
  • Best Lawyers in America® – “Ones to Watch” (2022-2025)
  • Virginia Lawyers Weekly – “Up & Coming Lawyer” (2021)
  • Virginia Super Lawyers® – “Rising Star” (2015 – 2020)
  • Virginia Super Lawyers® –  “Super Lawyer” (2021 – 2024)
  • National Trial Lawyers – “Top 40 Under 40” (2020)
  • Virginia State Bar – “Significant Service” Award (2013, 2016)
  •  
  • Virginia Trial Lawyers Association – Publications Committee Member
  • Richmond Bar Association – Member
  • Catalysts for $360 Million Verdict: Capturing and Keeping a Juror’s Attention
    Trial Lawyers University
    Las Vegas, Nevada
    October, 2024

  • Economic Loss, Repose, Worker’s Compensation & Vicarious Liability
    Virginia State Bar Construction Torts Seminar
    Charlottesville, Virginia
    October, 2023

  • Med School for Trial Attorneys – Co-Chair, Panel Leader
    Virginia Trial Lawyers Association (VTLA)
    Charlottesville, Virginia
    October, 2023

  • Telling the Story Across the Spectrum: Trial Persuasion
    Virginia Trial Lawyers Association (VTLA)
    Charlottesville, Virginia
    October, 2022

Sexual Abuse
$360 Million
Wrongful Death
$6 Million
Wrongful Death
$4.7 Million
Brain Injury
$1.75 Million
Personal Injury
$1.25 Million
Car Accidents
$770,000
Personal Injury
$550,000
Sexual Assault
$300,000
Personal Injury
$300,000
Car Accidents
$250,000
Car Accidents
$135,000

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Awards

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