Andrew Angeles ’19 works as an attorney for the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART).
Before becoming an attorney for a major public transportation company, Andrew Angeles ’19 gained hands-on experience working with technology companies and city government attorneys as a law student at UC Law SF.
“UC Law SF provided the foundation, experience, connections and education to get me where I am today,” Angeles said.
As a law student, Angeles worked with early-stage tech companies through the UC Law SF Startup Legal Garage. He assisted startups with corporate law issues, including company incorporation, contracting and employment issues. He also completed an internship with the San Francisco City Attorney’s Office, where he focused on legal issues related to energy and telecommunications.
Angeles said he chose UC Law SF because of its experiential learning opportunities and reputation as a school that helped launch the careers of great civic leaders.
Angeles, who now works as an attorney for the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), said he wanted to give back to his alma mater by serving on the board of the UC Law SF Alumni Association. The board serves as a link between alumni and the school administration. It provides valuable input on alumni volunteer activities, chapter and affinity group programming, and helps support departmental initiatives.
“I couldn’t be happier to support a school where people are committed to the law and stand up for justice,” Angeles said. “I hope my ministry will help students and alumni thrive.”
In his role as attorney for BART, Angeles negotiates public contracts, reviews new and existing laws, represents BART in labor arbitrations and disciplinary proceedings, and advises management on labor and employment matters, among other things.
Angeles spent his early years in the Bay Area before moving to Los Angeles when he was young. He said he developed a strong interest in public policy as a teenager, which led him to pursue a degree in the field. Prior to law school, he earned both a master’s and a bachelor’s degree in public policy from the University of Chicago.
Before joining BART’s legal team, Angeles worked at international and national law firms as a litigator and regulatory advisor to corporations and professionals. His practice has included maritime law, cyber law, commercial disputes, insurance coverage and professional liability.
He recommends that current law students use clinics, internships, and other opportunities to gain hands-on experience. He also suggests they take time to breathe, relax, and stay mentally and physically healthy while in law school.
“Law school is a wonderful time to push your analytical thinking and nurture your intellect,” Angeles said. “At the same time, it is a place to make lasting contacts with fellow students, professors and alumni. Once you’re a Hastings student, you’re part of a community you can count on.”
