Indian-Origin Attorney Named California Judge
California Governor Gavin Newsom has appointed Indian-origin attorney Bhanu Sadasivan to serve as a judge on the Santa Clara County Superior Court, marking a significant addition to the state’s judicial system. The appointment recognizes her extensive legal experience, academic background, and contributions to both law and science.
Sadasivan has been a partner at the prominent law firm McDermott Will & Emery since 2012, where she built a strong reputation in intellectual property litigation. Earlier in her career, she worked as an associate at Covington & Burling from 2008 to 2012 and at Heller Ehrman from 2004 to 2008. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law, one of the leading law institutions in the United States.
Before entering the legal profession, Sadasivan pursued advanced studies in biomedical research. She holds a Ph.D. in immunology from Yale University and completed postdoctoral research at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Her early academic work focused on scientific research before transitioning into law, where she combined technical expertise with legal practice.
In private practice, she established herself as a leading figure in intellectual property litigation, earning national recognition for her work. She was named among the Daily Journal’s Top Intellectual Property Lawyers in 2023 and has also been listed in The Best Lawyers in America for excellence in patent and intellectual property law. In addition to her legal career, she has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed scientific publications.
Beyond her professional achievements, Sadasivan has been actively involved in community service. She serves on the board of the Asian Law Alliance and previously led the organization as its president. The nonprofit focuses on providing legal assistance to Asian Pacific Islander communities and low-income residents in Silicon Valley.
She fills the judicial vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Joanne McCracken and has been registered as having no party preference. Her appointment reflects both her professional excellence and long-standing commitment to public service in California.
