#CovAPAHistory Spotlight Series: Udit Sood
May 14, 2020
Udit Sood is an associate in the firm’s San Francisco office, where he helps innovators solve complex legal problems that call for a rigorous understanding of science. He was introduced to the area of law by a friend who was planning to become a litigator, following a path set by her parents. At the time, Mr. Sood was set on becoming a software engineer. He was fascinated by the notion that he could approach legal problems in a manner similar to the logic- and structure-based approach utilized by software developers.
Mr. Sood, previously active in the music community in India, is also a singer in the 300-member San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus.
As a lawyer at Covington, how has your cultural background influenced the manner in which you approach your work?
The obvious thing that comes to mind is that I have taken on pro bono cases involving issues of significance to the LGBT+ community. While I do not have the same flexibility in choosing my commercial matters, I have seen that my intellectual property cases often involve individuals (e.g., client representatives, inventors, and experts) who, like me, are first-generation immigrants from Asian countries. This has sometimes enabled me to build a rapport relatively quickly.
You are an alumnus of the LCLD Pathfinder program. How do organizations like the LCLD benefit the legal industry, and the program participants?
These organizations create pressure for industry players to demonstrate commitment to diversity through action rather than words. They also help diverse lawyers develop powerful networks. I found this to be my experience with LCLD's Pathfinder Program. Besides forging new friendships with a diverse group of talented and interesting lawyers from around the country, the program offered useful professional skills training (e.g., relationship and time management, efficient organization, etc.). I came away with greater insight about my own strengths and weaknesses, as well as a determination to be more intentional about my career trajectory.
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