David A. Sergenian
FOUNDER
(213) 435-2035
808 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 200
Santa Monica, CA 90401
EDUCATION
J.D., 2003, University of Virginia School of Law
M.A., 2000, New York University, Philosophy & Literature
B.A., 1999, New School University, Liberal Arts
ADMISSIONS
California State Bar
U.S. Court of Appeals, Federal Circuit
U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
U.S. District Court, Central District of California
U.S. District Court, Northern District of California
U.S. District Court, Southern District of California
RECOGNITION
Super Lawyers
Southern California
2021–2026
General Litigation
EXPERIENCE
David concentrates his practice in copyright, trademarks, trade secrets, partnership and startup disputes, appellate practice, and general commercial litigation. He also has extensive experience in patent law, securities litigation, entertainment litigation, and employment actions. He has represented clients on both sides of the "v."—including numerous Fortune 500 companies—in litigations, trials, arbitrations, and alternative dispute resolutions.
Before founding Sergenian Law, David practiced at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan and Glaser Weil Fink Howard Avchen & Shapiro. Before law school, he worked as a film and video editor in feature films, documentaries, and television. He serves as outside General Counsel to The French Conservatory of Music.
SELECT REPRESENTATIVE MATTERS
Represented a film production company and major studio in an IP dispute against a game manufacturer in the Central District of California. Following a bench trial, the case settled before a decision issued.
Represented a prominent real estate developer at jury trial where plaintiffs sought hundreds of millions in child support. The jury returned a complete defense verdict after 90 minutes. Affirmed on appeal.
Represented an investment management firm in a six-week trade secrets and breach of fiduciary duty trial against a former executive and colleagues. The jury found liability; the case settled before damages were assessed.
Represented a well-known actress at jury trial against the estate of her former husband, a renowned musician, for breach of a contract to make a will. The jury awarded the full amount claimed after 90 minutes. Affirmed on appeal.
Represented a Fortune 500 broadcaster against patent infringement claims in the largest multi-district patent litigation in history. Settled after summary judgment rulings and U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (PTO) reexaminations invalidated all patents at issue.
Represented a Fortune 500 broadcaster against patent infringement claims. Obtained complete defense judgment on summary judgment (no infringement). Affirmed on appeal to the Federal Circuit.
Represented a major real estate investment firm in a dispute over 14 commercial properties in Southern California and Arizona. Settled immediately prior to trial.
Represented a utility company against sexual harassment and discrimination claims by a former employee. Settled on highly favorable terms days before trial.
Represented an internet startup in a trade secrets dispute against a major corporation.
Represented a whistleblower in a securities fraud dispute against one of the largest social media companies.
Represented a television production company against a major broadcasting channel in an idea submission case. Settled favorably in mediation.
Represented plaintiff in a partnership dispute over proceeds from real estate investments. Settled at trial shortly before the jury issued its verdict.