About Karin S
Karin S — Schwartz is an attorney specializing in intellectual property, products liability, and appellate law. A member of the State Bar of California since 2000, she has built a robust legal career characterized by significant public service and expertise in complex legal matters. Schwartz earned her Juris Doctor from Stanford Law School in 1995, a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academic standards. Prior to that, she obtained her Bachelor of Arts from Bryn Mawr College in 1992, laying a strong foundation for her legal education. In 2013, Schwartz took on the role of Deputy Director and Chief Counsel at the California Department of Public Health in Sacramento. This position allows her to influence public health policy and legal frameworks at a state level.
Her responsibilities include overseeing legal matters related to public health initiatives, which are critical in addressing health crises and regulatory compliance. Before this significant role, she served as a supervising deputy attorney general and acting senior assistant attorney general at the California Department of Justice from 2003 to 2013. During her tenure, she handled many cases, enhancing her skills in litigation and legal strategy. Earlier in her career, Schwartz worked as an associate at Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP from 2000 to 2003, where she gained inexperience in corporate law and litigation. Her time at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP from 1995 to 2000 further solidified her expertise in complex legal issues, particularly in the areas of intellectual property and products liability. These foundational experiences gave her the tools necessary to handle the details of appellate law, a field she has continued to engage with throughout her career.
In 2019, Schwartz was appointed to the Alameda County Superior Court, filling the vacancy created by Judge Ioana Petrou's elevation to the Court of Appeal. This appointment was evidence of her extensive legal experience and her contributions to public health law, showcasing her ability to handle judicial responsibilities effectively. As a judge, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to justice, further enriching the legal community in Alameda County. Schwartz is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, expanding her reach in federal legal matters. Fluent in English, she also possesses a working knowledge of Spanish.
This lets the attorney communicate effectively with clients. Active in various professional organizations, Schwartz remains dedicated to advancing her fields of expertise and contributing to the legal profession. Her multifaceted background and commitment to public service make her a notable figure in California's legal field.