IRVINE, Calif. February 1, 2023 – Knobbe Martens is pleased to share that partner Mark Lezama has been named Vice President of the Orange County Coalition for Diversity in the Law (OCCDL) for 2023. He will also serve as chair of the organization’s Professional Development Committee.
The OCCDL is committed to increasing diversity and inclusion within the Orange County legal community. It is a collaborative effort of professionals from leading Orange County law firms and other community partners promoting the recruitment, retainment, equity and advancement of diverse attorneys in Orange County, CA.
Mr. Lezama, a litigator who focuses on patent disputes, serves on Knobbe Martens’ Diversity and Litigation Committees. Mr. Lezama consistently supports diversity initiatives, including representing the firm at UCLA’s Diversity Reception and participating in UCI’s Pre-Law Outreach Program. Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Lezama said, “Having seen firsthand the great work OCCDL does and the meaningful impact it has had, I’m thrilled to serve as OCCDL’s Vice President this year. As chair of the Professional Development Committee, I’m looking forward to organizing events and programming that will help diverse attorneys develop their talents and further their careers.”
Last year, the OCCDL recognized two Knobbe Martens partners at their annual Diversity Awards, which recognize legal organizations, champions of diversity and young diverse attorneys who provide excellent legal services and have proven dedication to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in Orange County. Baraa Kahf, chair of Knobbe Martens’ Diversity Committee, was named a “Top 10 Champion of DEI in the Law of OC,” and partner Jessica Achtsam a “Top 10 Young Lawyer of OC”.
About Knobbe Martens
Knobbe Martens is a highly respected intellectual property law firm, offering legal services in all aspects of intellectual property and technology law. The firm’s litigation group handles cases throughout the U.S. and coordinates strategy for disputes worldwide. Founded in California in 1962, the firm has about 300 lawyers and scientists based in offices located in Orange County, Los Angeles, New York, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington D.C. Knobbe Martens serves a diverse international client base, from multinational corporations to emerging businesses of all stages. More information about the firm can be found at www.knobbe.com.
