professional bio
Susan Chace approaches workers’ compensation defense with a focus on collaboration, strategic analysis, and efficient resolution. She partners closely with clients to understand their objectives, providing clear guidance and consistent communication throughout the life of a claim. Drawing on her multidisciplinary background in healthcare, mediation, real estate, and civil litigation, she brings practical insight and a nuanced understanding of the human dynamics underlying each matter. Her prior experience representing applicants further informs her approach, offering valuable perspective on opposing counsel’s strategies, case valuation, and the factors that influence resolution.
This breadth of experience enables Ms. Chace to anticipate challenges early, position cases with clarity and purpose, and guide matters with a forward-thinking, strategic approach. She prioritizes early evaluation and disciplined planning to achieve cost-effective, timely resolutions, while remaining a responsive and trusted partner to her clients.
Prior to joining Bradford & Barthel, Ms. Chace served as a certified neutral mediator for civil harassment matters at the Orange County Superior Court, where she facilitated resolution of highly sensitive and emotionally charged disputes. Through this work, she earned a Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution under the California Dispute Resolution Programs Act, as well as the California Lawyers Association Wiley W. Manuel Certificate for Pro Bono Legal Services. This experience strengthened her ability to evaluate liability, credibility, and exposure—skills she brings to her litigation strategy and approach to defending claims efficiently and thoughtfully.
Ms. Chace is a patented inventor and a medalist at the Head of the Charles Regatta, the world’s largest two-day competitive rowing event held annually in Boston, Massachusetts. Outside of her work, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.
Education & Memberships
2024 Trinity Law School, Santa Ana, CA
Juris Doctor
1991 University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Bachelor of Arts (Zoology)
2025 State Bar of California
