Richard James Zielinski

As a Trial Attorney at Chelus, Herdzik, Speyer & Monte, Richard concentrates his practice on civil defense litigation, litigating cases in labor law, premises, and automobile tort liability, breach of contract claims, SUM claims, and insurance coverage disputes. Richard has been named a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022 for his dedicated work in civil litigation.

Prior to joining Chelus, Herdzik, Speyer & Monte PC, Richard worked in house for a J.D. Power ranked insurance company, representing the company and its insureds in a variety of disputes from tort defense to contract dispute.   Richard has also worked for a national labor and employment law firm advocating on behalf of both employees and employers on an array of disputes arising in discrimination, retaliation, wage and hour law and unfair labor practices.  At the federal level, Richard has assisted managers, employees, and contractors who are litigating Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) complaints as well as U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) appeals. Richard also practiced in civil litigation and corporate law, providing counsel to small businesses.  Richard has represented businesses targeted by personal injury lawsuits under labor law liability, products liability, and negligence.

Richard earned his juris doctorate cum laude from the University at Buffalo School of Law in 2015.  While earning his degree, Richard interned within the Criminal Appeals unit at the Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo.  In this position, Richard advocated on behalf of indigent clients seeking appellate review of their convictions.  Richard managed all aspects of the appellate process, culminating in argument before the 4th Department Appellate Division panel of judges. During law school, Richard was the Publications Editor to the Buffalo Journal of Gender, Law & Social Policy and worked as a law clerk in Buffalo City Court, researching and drafting judicial opinions.

Prior to his legal career, Richard earned his Bachelor of Arts in Literature summa cum laude from Buffalo State College.  As an undergraduate, Richard tutored fellow students in writing and reading comprehension at a local community college, focusing on both academic papers and creative endeavors.

A native of Western New York, Richard resides in West Seneca with his wife and their two children.  Richard is a loyal Bills and Sabres fan. When he is not in the office or spending time with his family, he enjoys spending his free time on the ice or running.