Managing Partner of Weil’s Silicon Valley office Craig Adas and Patent Litigation partner Anne Cappella have been named “California Trailblazers” by The Recorder. The second annual publication recognizes 52 California attorneys who are innovators and “agents of change” in their respective practice areas.

Weil’s honorees highlight the Firm’s expertise in cutting-edge corporate transactions and intellectual property counseling and litigation, as well as its deep ties to Silicon Valley. The honorees were profiled in a special supplement published today.

• Craig Adas was recognized as a trailblazing deal lawyer and forward-looking business leader. He is a longstanding advisor to leading technology companies, investment banks and private equity firms, as well as their portfolio companies, in their most sophisticated M&A transactions. The profile noted how Mr. Adas’ depth and breadth of experience has given him a “360-degree understanding of the technology sector.” The profile also noted his success as the longtime leader of Weil’s Silicon Valley office. In 1991, Weil was the first global, non-California law firm to open an office in the region, and Mr. Adas has helped it grow into an industry powerhouse. “This is a great place to be,” Mr. Adas said. “We can continue to take more and more market share based on what we are doing.”
• Anne Cappella was recognized as one of the technology industry’s foremost patent litigators and intellectual property counselors. The profile noted her record of success defending smartphone manufacturers in global patent battles, securing victories that have had an immense impact. As a former IBM engineer, she brings decisive expertise to disputes and deals alike. “Technology is becoming more a part of everyday life and of everyday litigation,” Ms. Cappella said. “I think it’s more important to have people who understand the technology who are involved in the litigation.” She was also recognized for her pro bono accomplishments, having secured with the Center for Constitutional Rights a landmark class action settlement in 2015 that effectively ended indeterminate, long-term solitary confinement in all California state prisons.