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
Free Case Evaluation
Client Reviews
After a drunk driver hit me I wasn’t really sure what to do. A friend of mine Highly Recommended Arnold Law Firm, what a great recommendation it has been! The staff from lawyers to assistants has been nothing short of amazing. Always are calling and emailing me to update what is going on with your case. A very nerve racking thing to deal with personal injury and what comes from it. But with Arnold Law Firm you can rest knowing they are fighting for every inch for you. Need a law office? Look no further!
This firm is a joy to work with, they really care about their clients. Mr. Minney and Deena were wonderful to work with.
I am very grateful for the services I got from Arnold Law Firm! Everyone was great! Stephanie was awesome! Her dedication and perseverance were admirable! She was the person behind the success of my claim! I truly appreciate her in particular, and Arnold Law Firm staff, in general!
So far, we are very happy with Arnold Law Firm and the personal service we have received by Dominic Sandaval. We are looking forward to continuing this relationship through the remainder of our law suit.
Thank you, Gilbert and Joanne Joseph
Not just legal experts, The Arnold Law Firm and my case manager Stephanie Baffoni genuinely cares about you.
The Arnold Law Firm has a proven track record of success fighting for their clients and I am very thankful to have them supporting me during a very challenging time. What I did not expect is the level of compassion, partnership, and trust Stephanie and the team strives to achieve in what could have been a purely transactional relationship.If you want to be treated like a person, not a number, and know someone is looking out for your best interests, then look no further.