Trial attorney and veteran commercial litigator Steven Di Saia defends high-damage claims involving products liability, mass and complex torts, and catastrophic injury. Steve offers a distinctive and intricate understanding of the complex engineering systems in earth moving equipment, hydraulic equipment, power turbines, high voltage and electrical distribution equipment, industrial machinery, and other technologies. In his client advocacy before judges and juries, Steve distills sophisticated defense strategies into easy-to-understand evidence and arguments that resonate with multigenerational audiences.

As Firmwide Practice Chair of Buchalter’s Products Liability Law practice group, Steve leads a deep bench of attorneys in pre-litigation risk management and resolution of claims on summary judgment, at trial, and in alternative dispute resolution forums.

Steve has earned a reputation during his over 30 years of practice as an agile, utility player and quick study in products liability issues. From generators to light bulbs and dishwashers, Steve has defended against claims of faulty products and injuries across such industries as:

  • Heavy Earthmoving and Construction Equipment
  • Electrical Power Generation and Distribution
  • Electrical Equipment and Tools
  • Chemical and Coating Products
  • Asbestos/Toxic Tort litigation
  • Construction and Automotive
  • Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices
  • Healthcare
  • Food and Beverage
  • Appliances
  • Consumer Products

Successful at trial early in his career, Steve has amassed more than two decades of courtroom achievement in California and across the nation. He has defended clients at trial successfully in California, Oregon and Arizona, and has appeared as trial and coordinating counsel in multiple other jurisdictions. These matters have ranged from individual actions, to coordinated proceedings, MDLs, and class actions.  He is committed to developing trial skills in the next generation of lawyers, and he mentors teams to hone their talent.

Clients value that from the initial moment they contact him about an incident or claim, Steve is all in. His preparation and representation dig deep. This often entails hands-on investigation of equipment and products, visits to accident sites, and deft handling of expert testimony. Additionally, clients rely on Steve’s easy coordination with their own engineering teams to prepare an effective and efficient defense.

Steve is a graduate of the University of California, Hastings College of the Law and the University of California, Berkeley. He serves as a member of DRI and the Litigation Section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association.

The changing tactics of the plaintiffs’ bar and the risks they present to clients are an ongoing focus for Steve. He advises on emerging and novel plaintiff strategies, and offers clients proactive measures to manage risk, protect confidential data, and prevent claims from occurring.

 

Mr. Di Saia earned his J.D. from The University of California College of the Law, San Francisco, and his B.A. from the University of California, Berkeley.

  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
  • U.S. District Court for the Central District of California
  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California
  • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California
  • U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California
  • Frequent speaker at seminars and lectures across U.S. on topics of his practice
  • Member, Litigation Section at the Los Angeles California Bar Association

Additional Specialties

Environmental Compliance