Chhaya Malik has been appointed to the Santa Clara County Superior Court, bringing over two decades of experience in civil rights and dispute resolution to the bench.
California’s judiciary has welcomed Chhaya Malik as a new member of the Santa Clara County Superior Court bench, following her appointment by Governor Gavin Newsom. Malik fills the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Socrates P. Manoukian.
With more than twenty years of diverse legal experience, Malik’s background encompasses public service, private practice, and policy advocacy. She is well-versed in alternative dispute resolution and civil rights law, making her a valuable addition to the local court system.
Before her recent appointment, Malik served as the deputy director of dispute resolution at the California Civil Rights Department, a role she held since 2022. In this capacity, she focused on mediating disputes and advancing civil rights initiatives.
Malik’s experience in the private sector includes her role as a mediator at Devi Legal Mediation Services from 2020 to 2022. Additionally, she worked as special counsel at Ehrlich & Craig from 2012 to 2022, where she honed her skills in civil litigation and regulatory frameworks.
Her public service experience is extensive, having worked as a policy liaison with the U.S. Department of State from 2011 to 2012. Prior to that, she was a staff attorney at the Advancement Project from 2009 to 2011, where she contributed to various civil rights initiatives. Malik began her legal career as an associate at Hogan Lovells, practicing there from 2005 to 2009.
Malik earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law, which has equipped her with a solid foundation for her judicial responsibilities.
Local court leadership has expressed enthusiasm about Malik’s appointment. Presiding Judge Julie A. Emede remarked on the significance of her extensive experience, stating, “Chhaya’s background in dispute resolution, civil rights, public policy, and private practice will bring a valuable perspective to our bench. We look forward to working alongside her as we continue our commitment to providing fair, accessible, and effective justice to the people of Santa Clara County.”
Malik’s appointment is seen as a positive step for the Santa Clara County Superior Court, enhancing its capacity to address the legal needs of the community effectively.
According to The American Bazaar, Malik’s diverse legal expertise positions her well to contribute to the court’s mission of justice and equity.