Orrick Adds Tech Litigation Talent to Santa Monica Office

• Ben Au has joined the firm as a tech litigation partner in our Santa Monica office.
• He is an experienced trial lawyer with a strong record of litigating commercial claims for technology companies at all stages, from representing founders and startups to S&P 500-listed companies.
• He joins from Durie Tangri, where he was a partner and previously practiced with Clem Roberts, head of Orrick’s IP litigation practice.
• He is the second addition to the SM office this year, following Caroline Cherkassky, a corporate advisor to the tech sector.

Ben has represented three of the top 10 tech companies, focusing his practice on both civil and criminal matters, including handling founder disputes and venture capital and portfolio company counsel and defense. He will be the 8^th partner in our Santa Monica office and further expands our growth in Southern California, where we also added Christine Bouchot, a tech-focused employment adviser, and Julia Balas, an M&A adviser in renewable energy projects, this year.

“Ben is a skilled litigator who understands both technology and the needs of technology companies throughout the lifecycle,” said Jessica Perry, co-leader of Orrick’s global litigation practice. “This is exactly the kind of sector-focused talent we are looking to add to our litigation bench.”

“Orrick brings the resources of a litigation powerhouse and a terrific portfolio of technology clients,” Ben said. “’I’m excited to be part of this growing team.”

Ben currently serves as a lawyer representative to the Ninth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals, and is on the board of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

Orrick tied for #1 in representing the most S&P 500-listed tech companies in litigation last year, according to Bloomberg Law.

Ben is one of 24 lateral partners Orrick has added to our tech sector platform since the beginning of 2021.

The Recorder covered Ben's move in this story.