Justin is an associate in the firm’s Global Commercial Disputes Group and is based out of the San Francisco office. Justin’s litigation experience ranges from law and motion practice to appeals in both state and federal courts. Justin has trial experience in both federal and state courts including acting as second-chair in a state court trial. He has also argued dispositive motions in court and has taken and defended depositions.
Justin has extensive knowledge in alcohol beverage law and policy including state and federal regulations, labeling, local option elections, and distribution franchise laws. Justin has represented and counseled wineries, restaurants, and food companies in a range of disputes and negotiations. Additionally, Justin worked as a research assistant for a wine industry legal expert on a book about the legal history of Napa Valley’s wine industry, and has published articles on legal issues affecting the food and beverage industries.
Prior to joining Reed Smith, Justin worked for over a decade at a record label marketing, managing, and cultivating its talent roster. He routinely confronted legal issues and negotiated transactions in areas including distribution, performance contracts, and intellectual property licensing on behalf of the label and its artists. Accordingly, Justin brings to his practice a practical understanding of the needs and concerns of businesses involved in disputes.
Justin is also active in the firm’s Pro Bono practice. He has represented a prisoner in a civil rights action through the Federal Pro Bono Project, and has also represented a client, referred to the firm by Open Door Legal, seeking appeal in the California Court of Appeal. Justin routinely mentors students as a practitioner coach in appellate moot court competitions and helps judge student oral arguments at U.C. Berkeley School of Law.
