Umberg Zipser LLP announced the addition of OCBA member Vikki L. Vander Woude as its new business litigation partner.

“We are pleased to welcome Vikki and Nicole to the U/Z team. Their experience is directly aligned with our focus of strategically growing in the areas of business litigation and intellectual property. We remain committed to meeting our clients’ objectives with maximum efficiency and flexibility,” said co-founding partner, Dean Zipser.

Woude focuses her practice on commercial litigation, litigation consulting and neutral services. She represents both plaintiffs and defendants, companies and individuals, in business, real estate, employment, and class action and other multi-party litigation, and also assists smaller and mid-sized businesses as an “outside in-house” counsel with management and oversight of litigation, legal expenses, discovery, proactive risk management and alternative dispute resolution. Woude is experienced in all phases of litigation, including trials and alternative dispute resolution proceedings. Immediately prior to joining the firm, Woude served as a Senior Research Attorney for the Orange County Superior Court in the Complex and Unlimited Civil Divisions.

Woude commented, “I am thrilled to re-join some of my former colleagues from the Morrison & Manatt firms, and the rest of the U/Z team. I am proud to work with such a wonderful group of attorneys who are deeply committed to client and community service.”

Umberg Zipser also welcomed patent agent Nicole Ballew Chang, Ph.D. to the firm. Chang focuses her practice on domestic and international patent prosecution in biotechnology, life sciences, and chemical arts. Chang’s educational and professional background serves clients well in her role on the U/Z team. Her years of experience as a patent agent together with her experience in molecular and cellular biology provide her with unique insight into the intellectual property challenges faced by those in the scientific industries, and enable her to provide clients with strategic solutions as well as provide support for due diligence and licensing matters. Prior to joining Umberg Zipser, Chang served as a patent agent at Lewis Roca Rothergerber Christie, LLP.

Chang also commented, “I am honored to join the impressive U/Z team. I am excited to have the opportunity to work with such a sincere group of experienced professionals to serve the firm’s clients.”