James Long Chapman - Transportation profile photo

James Long Chapman

Crenshaw, Ware & Martin • Norfolk, VA
TransportationPersonal Injury

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Contact

Email
Phone
(757) 802-7255
Address
150 West Main Street, Norfolk, VA, 23510-2111, US

Professional

About

Jim is a veteran trial lawyer. Whether it's a bet-the-company case, shipping disaster or shareholder dispute, his extensive trial experience and accumulated knowledge give him the insight to efficiently sift through complicated facts and provide wise counsel in the thorniest of cases. Jim frequently advises governing boards and senior leadership regarding risks and resolution strategies in high-profile cases. His service as counsel to several corporations, and as a director and officer of non-profit boards, has further enhanced his ability to guide other clients and organizations. As chair of the firm’s litigation department, he pursues an efficient and collaborative approach to developing innovative solutions for his clients. In 2013, Jim was appointed to serve on the governing board of Virginia Tech, currently serves as its Rector, and previously chaired the Finance and Audit Committee. Today, Virginia Tech is a leading research university with an annual budget of $1.4 billion, serving over 30,000 students. The University’s motto is Ut Prosim, Latin for “That I May Serve,” which Jim does with passion for both his alma mater and his clients.

Credentials

Education
1982 Washington and Lee University School of Law JD - Juris Doctor 1979 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University BA - Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude
Languages
English

Recognition & Involvement

Awards
2018 Best Lawyers - Admiralty/Maritime, Commercial Litigation, Best Lawyers in America 2018 Listed in Virginia Super Lawyers (Transportation/Maritime), Virginia Super Lawyers 2017 Best Lawyers - Admiralty/Maritime, Commercial Litigation, Best Lawyers in America 2017 Listed in Virginia Super Lawyers (Transportation/Maritime), Virginia Super Lawyers 2016 Listed in Virginia Super Lawyers, Virginia Super Lawyers
Associations
2017 - Present Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International Member 2016 - Present Virginia Law Foundation Fellow 1996 - Present National Association of Railroad Trial Counsel 1988 - Present Maritime Law Association of the United States Proctor 1986 - Present Southeastern Admiralty Law Institute Chairman - 1997
Speaking
2014 2014 Shipping & Martime Law Roundtable Shipping & Maritime Law 2014 2011 NPBA Seminar Deconstructing a Jury Trial 2008 SEALI Annual Meeting Red Letter Clauses in Marina Slip Leases 2007 Handling Marine Claims - Recent Developments Marine Insurance Claims and Practice 2004 Southeast Admiralty Law Institute Annual Meeting Ten Tempting (But Improper) Closing Arguments
Updated: Mar 24, 2026