Stoel Rives Expands California Litigation Practice with Addition of Partner David M. Friedman in San Francisco

Stoel Rives, an AmLaw 200 law firm, today announced the addition of business litigator and trial attorney David M. Friedman as a partner in the firm’s litigation practice in its San Francisco office. Friedman brings more than two decades of experience handling complex, high-stakes business disputes and further strengthens the firm’s litigation capabilities in California and across the West.

“Dave is an exceptional addition to our litigation team and our growing San Francisco office,” said Tom Johnson, Chair of Stoel Rives’ Litigation Practice Group. “He brings deep experience navigating sophisticated business disputes and a strong understanding of the legal and commercial issues facing companies, investors and executives. His first-chair litigation experience and established presence in the San Francisco legal and business communities will add meaningful depth to our capabilities in California.”

Friedman represents companies, investment funds, founders, investors, directors and officers, and high-net-worth individuals in a broad range of commercial disputes. His practice encompasses corporate governance and securities matters, founder and partnership disputes, post-acquisition litigation, trade secret and unfair competition matters, breach of contract disputes, government and internal investigations, and SEC enforcement matters. He has litigated cases in courts and tribunals throughout the country, including the Delaware Court of Chancery. His practice spans multiple industries, including financial and professional services, biotech, fintech, semiconductors, and other cutting-edge technologies.

“Stoel Rives offers an outstanding platform for clients facing complex business challenges, with sophisticated capabilities across litigation, corporate, and other practice areas that frequently intersect with my practice,” Friedman said. “I have worked with several Stoel partners for years, some of whom I have known my whole career. I’m excited to work alongside the firm’s talented lawyers, expand the resources available to my clients and contribute to the continued growth of the firm’s litigation practice in San Francisco and throughout California.”

Friedman joins Stoel Rives from national litigation boutique Stris & Maher LLP, where he has been a partner since 2021. Previously, he was a named partner at San Francisco litigation boutique Ogloza Fortney & Friedman LLP and practiced as counsel and an associate at Latham & Watkins LLP.

“Dave’s arrival reflects our continued investment in building a deep, experienced litigation bench in California,” said Bryan Hawkins, Managing Partner of Stoel Rives’ California Offices.  “His experience in corporate governance, trade secrets, securities and other complex commercial matters complements our existing strengths and enhances our ability to serve clients in their most consequential disputes.”

Friedman earned his J.D. from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law and his B.A. in Economics and Political Science from the University of California, Berkeley.