February 2024 Members in the News



Monica Mazzei: 2024 Top Women Attorney in Northern California

The Bar Association of San Francisco extends its congratulations to Monica Mazzei, shareholder at Buchalter, a Leader Circle firm, for her outstanding recognition as one of the 2024 Top Women Attorneys in Northern California by American Registry. Monica’s exceptional legal expertise and dedication to excellence earned her this accolade. We commend Monica for her remarkable achievement and applaud her continued commitment to the legal community.

Bob Van Nest, Leading California’s Commercial Litigators

BASF celebrates the achievement of Bob Van Nest, partner of Leader Circle firm Keker, Van Nest, & Peters, who has been distinguished among California’s Leading Commercial Litigators by the Daily Journal. His track record in navigating patent and intellectual property cases, in his recent defense of high profile clients like Google against infringement claims. His contributions not only showcase excellence but also inspire his attorneys at Keker, Van Nest, & Peters to elevate the standard of commercial litigation. Congratulations, Bob!

Lubin Olson: Top-Rated by U.S. News – Best Lawyers

Leader Circle firm, Lubin Olson & Niewiadomski has been honored with a first tier ranking in Mortgage Banking Foreclosure Law and real Estate Law by U.S. News – Best Lawyers in their 14th Edition of ‘Best Law Firms’ in 2024. This recognition underscores their firm’s caliber and experience in these fields.

The Recorder covers Michael Li-Ming Wong joining Willkie

The Recorder, recently featured Michael Li-Ming Wong’s transition to Willkie, a Leader Circle firm here with the Bar Association of San Francisco. Providing legal news and analyses aimed at helping lawyers and firms optimize their work, The Recorder shared Michael’s enthusiasm for contributing to office expansion since joining as a partner and Co-Chair of the national White-Collar Defence back in January. His move to Willkie presents a significant opportunity to assume a leadership role within a global firm. Michael expressed his dedication to serving as a role model for future generations, promoting diversity in the legal profession, and emphasized his commitment to being a hands-on father. Sending warm wishes to Michael and congratulations on the recognition!

Orrick Introduces New Partners

At the beginning of 2024, Orrick elevated 3 San Francisco-based attorneys to partner. Rebecca Harlow is a cyber and privacy class action litigator at Orrick, where she is part of the nationally Chambers Band 1-ranked team. She defends clients in data breach litigation, handles class actions involving wiretapping claims, and co-leads Orrick’s Women Initiative in San Francisco. Will Melehani, an intellectual property litigator acts as a key player in numerous successful teams within tech and biotech. Since joining as a summer associate, he remains dedicated to pro bono work as well as being involved in complex cases in technology. Victor Hanna, is a member of Orrick’s renewable energy team, and assists a range of clients on project financings/ Through collaborative problem solving, he works closely with all parties to navigate complex commercial and legal issues. Cheers to the three newest partners!