Emergency Contact Information: (562) 317-3333 | emergency@cwn-law.com
JOEL BUFFA
ASSOCIATE • LONG BEACH
Joel is an attorney with a deep-rooted background in the maritime industry, bringing extensive on-the-water and shoreside experience to his legal practice. He advises clients on matters involving admiralty and maritime law, marine insurance, and vessel operations, drawing on firsthand knowledge of industry standards and regulatory frameworks.
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Before entering the legal profession, Joel earned his U.S. Coast Guard 1600 Ton Master and Second Mate Unlimited licenses and sailed as a Senior Dynamic Positioning Operator. His operational experience includes oil rig support, dive support, core sampling, heavy lift operations, and compliance with international safety and environmental regulations. He later worked ashore as an Assistant Operations Manager during the launch of the first fully automated container terminal in the United States.
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Joel also spent nearly a decade in marine insurance, underwriting commercial hull, marine liability, and ocean cargo risks. His blend of seamanship, logistics, and risk assessment enables him to offer practical insight into complex legal issues involving vessel casualties, cargo disputes, and regulatory enforcement actions.​
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He earned his J.D. from Loyola Law School of Los Angeles, where he served as Editor-in-Chief of the Loyola of Los Angeles International and Comparative Law Review. He was recognized by the Admiralty and Maritime Law Committee of the ABA Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section for an article he authored on developments in admiralty and maritime law.
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An experienced sailor, Joel has completed multiple ocean crossings, including three Transpacs and one Pacific Cup. He is the fifth generation in his family to compete in the Transpacific Yacht Race and made his first ocean crossing at the age of 13.
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ADMISSIONS:
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California (all state courts)
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Central District of California
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Southern District of California
EDUCATION:
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J.D., Loyola Law School of Los Angeles, 2024. Editor-in Chief, Loyola of Los Angeles International & Comparative Law Review
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B.A., Marine Transportation, California State University Maritime Academy, 2011
MEMBERSHIPS:
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Marine Underwriters of Southern California, President (2021-2023)
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Maritime Law Association of the United States
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Sons of the American Legion, Newport Harbor Squadron 291
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United States Power Squadrons
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