Fish & Richardson's Juanita Brooks Named a Women Leader in Tech Law

Juanita Brooks, a principal with the law firm of Fish & Richardson, has been recognized as a Women Leader in Tech Law as part of The Recorder's 2019 California Leaders in Tech Law and Innovations Awards. Brooks was one of 21 women chosen for the honor by The Recorder, an ALM California legal publication focused on the intersection of law, technology and business.

The publication selected Brooks, in part, for her representation of Gilead Sciences, Inc., at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in which she wona precedentialdecision that not only clarifies the law regarding what is and is not business and litigation misconduct but has changed how many technology companies handle due diligence and licensing negotiations.

In a Q&A profile published by The Recorder, Brooks discussed the many steps needed to increase the number of women in technology law fields and how proud she is that Fish is taking many of these steps. She discussed the firm's 1L diversity fellowship program and its participation in the OnRamp Fellowship program, which helps women reenter the legal profession after taking time off to be with their families. Brooks also noted the importance of instilling the idea that women have a place in tech at a young age, and that each year Fish sends 30 middle school students to space camp, many of whom are girls.

When asked about advice she would give a woman starting out in tech law fields, Brooks said, "I would encourage women starting out in tech law to get involved in organizations that focus on the advancement of women in tech. One such organization is ChIPs ...where you can find other women doing what you are doing and feel supported and understood."

Fish was also honored by The Recorder for Innovation in Law Firm Management and Innovation in Diversity and Inclusion.