John S. Edmunds

John S. Edmunds is a nationally recognized trial attorney known for his dedication to justice in personal injury, business litigation, and criminal defense cases. With a legal career spanning decades, Mr. Edmunds has earned a reputation as one of Hawaii’s most respected and skilled litigators. In 2013, Best Lawyers in America named him Hawaii Lawyer of the Year in White-Collar Criminal Defense, a reflection of his courtroom excellence and professional integrity.

Mr. Edmunds was born in Los Angeles, California, and earned his undergraduate degree from Stanford University in 1964, graduating from the honors program in philosophy. He received his Juris Doctor from the University of Southern California in 1967, where he was recognized as one of four moot court finalists out of 160 students. His advocacy is defined by relentless preparation, strategic thinking, and a commitment to achieving justice for his clients.

• Truck Accidents
• Personal Injury
• Wrongful Death
• Business Litigation
• White-Collar Criminal Defense
• Civil Rights and Constitutional Law

Mr. Edmunds is admitted to practice in Hawaii, the U.S. Supreme Court, the U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands, where he served as Acting Chief Justice from 1980 to 1981. He holds an AV-Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and is highly regarded by peers and clients alike for his trial work, legal scholarship, and leadership in the legal community.

He has authored scholarly work for the Hawaii Bar Journal, taught at the University of Hawaii School of Law, and served on the Board of Directors for the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii. His leadership roles include serving on the board of the Hawaii Academy of Plaintiff’s Attorneys and as President of the American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii.

• Hawaii Lawyer of the Year – Best Lawyers in America (2013)
• AV-Preeminent Rated – Martindale-Hubbell
• Master of the Bench – American Inns of Court
• Acting Chief Justice – Republic of the Marshall Islands (1980–81)
• Board of Governors – Hawaii Academy of Plaintiff’s Attorneys
• President – ACLU of Hawaii

John S. Edmunds is a tireless and principled advocate who brings decades of courtroom experience to every case. Whether representing clients in catastrophic truck accident litigation or complex civil and criminal trials, he is committed to pursuing justice with unmatched dedication, precision, and ethical focus. His legacy in Hawaii’s legal community is built on results, integrity, and service.