Michelle Zhu

Michelle Zhu is a versatile attorney and a passionate advocate for individual rights. This value is at the heart of her legal practice. At Arnold Law Firm, Michelle specializes in complex litigation with a focus on data breach litigation, class actions, and whistleblower lawsuits.

Although she was born in New York, Michelle spent her early childhood years in China before moving to the San Francisco Bay Area. After graduating from UC Davis with a major in Psychology, she continued her legal education at UC Law San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings), with a concentration in their nationally renowned Health Law and Policy program.

Michelle served as a staff editor and board member of the Hastings Journal on Gender and the Law at UC Law SF. She has a longstanding and deep commitment to women’s rights and the broader community. Upon graduation, she notably earned an Outstanding Pro Bono Distinction.

Law school exposed Michelle to diverse areas of litigation, ranging from government and military law to the private sector. This legal experience included the California Attorney General’s Office, the Wikimedia Foundation, the U.S. Air Force JAG Corps, and the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office.

Before joining Arnold Law Firm, Michelle specialized in tax controversy at one of the largest global accounting firms in the world. Through complex tax disputes, health law litigation, trademark infringement, and criminal prosecution, Michelle has benefitted from a diverse legal journey. This experience has further enriched her knowledge and ability to represent her clients more effectively.

Michelle demonstrated a flair for language and storytelling from a young age. She authored and published two novels in Mandarin Chinese during her teenage years. This blend of international experience and creative accomplishments brings a unique perspective to Michelle’s legal practice.

During her free time, Michelle loves getting lost in a good book. She also enjoys sharing her thoughts through blogging, exploring the world with her camera, and staying active with aerial yoga and dance.

CURRENT PRACTICE AREAS

  • Data Breach Litigation
  • Class Action
  • False Claims Act Whistleblower Representation / Qui Tam Action

ADMITTED TO PRACTICE

  • California

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

  • University of California College of Law, San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings) – J.D.
  • University of California, Davis – B.A., Psychology

LANGUAGES

  • English
  • Mandarin Chinese

MEMBERSHIPS

  • The State Bar of California
  • Queen’s Bench Bar Association
  • Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area
  • Chinese American Lawyers Association of Bay Area