Richard W. Shelest

Richard Shelest represents national and international corporate clients in all aspects of civil litigation. His practice focuses on the defense of a broad range of claims involving professional liability, premises liability, and personal injury. Richard effectively handles cases throughout all phases of litigation. His clients include some of the world’s largest organizations directly retaining Wilson Elser’s services.

During law school, Richard completed the innovative Tech Edge J.D. certificate program, enabling him to understand clients’ business and technology needs and challenges in developing defense strategies. He gained valuable experience as an intern at multiple personal injury defense law firms and obtained trial experience in Santa Clara County.

Prior to law school, Richard served as a Naval Flight Officer in the United States Navy for nine years. As an Electronic Warfare Officer primarily assigned to the VAQ-132 Scorpions in Whidbey Island, Washington, Richard flew the EA-18G Growler, the world's most advanced airborne electronic attack aircraft. While actively deployed to Iraq and Syria with the Navy, Richard led multiple combat flight missions during Operation Inherent Resolve. He deployed to other locations while flying with VAQ-132, including Japan, South Korea, and Australia.