Andrew A. Cheng has built a strong reputation as one of Hawaii’s leading attorneys in workers’ compensation and personal injury law. Based in Honolulu, Cheng has become a go-to figure for clients seeking justice after workplace injuries, wrongful termination, or serious accidents. With nearly three decades of legal experience, he combines strategic litigation skills with a compassionate approach to client care, setting him apart in Hawaii’s legal landscape.
Educational Excellence and Early Legal Career
Cheng’s academic journey began at the prestigious Punahou School in Honolulu, followed by undergraduate studies at Wheaton College, where he earned his B.A. He went on to receive his Juris Doctor from the William S. Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawaii. Early in his career, Cheng worked at the prominent law firm Kessner Umebayashi Bain & Matsunaga, where he gained valuable experience defending insurance companies. This early exposure provided him with a deep understanding of how insurance defense teams operate—knowledge that would later become a powerful advantage when advocating for injured clients.
Practice Areas and Legal Focus
Andrew Cheng’s legal focus lies primarily in three areas: workers’ compensation, personal injury, and employment law. He represents clients who have been injured on the job, suffered due to negligence, or faced unlawful employment practices such as wrongful termination or discrimination. His wide-ranging expertise makes him a versatile advocate, capable of handling both complex compensation cases and civil rights matters with equal competence.
Litigation Experience and Dual Perspective
What truly distinguishes Cheng is his dual litigation perspective—having worked on both sides of the courtroom. His experience representing insurance companies early in his career allows him to anticipate and counter the defense’s strategies effectively. He has litigated cases before the Disability Compensation Division, the Labor and Industrial Relations Appeals Board, and both state and federal trial courts. Additionally, Cheng has experience in appellate courts, as well as before the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This extensive background provides his clients with a tactical advantage in both negotiation and courtroom settings.
Recognition and Professional Standing
Andrew Cheng has received national recognition for his work. He has been named among “America’s Top 50 Workers’ Compensation Lawyers” in Hawaii, a testament to his excellence and influence in the field. He is a long-standing member of the Hawaii State Bar and actively participates in professional organizations such as the Consumer Lawyers of Hawai‘i and the Association of Trial Lawyers of America. These affiliations highlight his commitment to staying current with evolving legal practices and standards.
Client Reviews and Community Reputation
Cheng is known not only for his legal expertise but also for his dedication to client communication and satisfaction. Reviews on platforms like Avvo praise him for being responsive, thorough, and deeply invested in his clients’ well-being. One client wrote, “Andrew Cheng is on top of things… he STILL kept in good contact with me,” illustrating the reliability and care he provides, even in challenging circumstances. His strong client relationships have earned him a loyal following and numerous referrals.
Conclusion: A Trusted Advocate for Justice in Hawaii
Andrew A. Cheng exemplifies what it means to be a top-tier lawyer in Hawaii’s compensation and personal injury landscape. With a strong academic foundation, rich litigation experience, and an unwavering focus on his clients, he continues to deliver justice for those who need it most. Whether you’re an injured worker seeking compensation or an employee facing unfair treatment, Andrew Cheng offers the skill, insight, and empathy necessary to navigate complex legal challenges successfully.
