Paul Belonick

Paul Belonick is a Professor of Practice and the Director of the Startup Legal Garage at the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly known as UC Hastings).12 He also serves as the Faculty Assistant Director for the Center for Innovation (C4i) at the same institution.3

Education and Background

Professor Belonick has an impressive educational background:

• Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law (2010)
• Ph.D. in History from the University of Virginia (2016)
• B.A. in History and Classical Languages from Hamilton College (2002)1

During his time at the University of Virginia School of Law, he served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Virginia Law Review.12

Professional Experience

Before joining academia, Professor Belonick gained valuable experience in legal practice:

• Worked at both small and internationally-recognized law firms
• Practiced in various areas of law, including criminal law, family law, mass torts, securities, and business litigation12

Current Role and Responsibilities

As the Director of the Startup Legal Garage, Professor Belonick manages an innovative program that provides legal work for early-stage tech and biotech startups.4 The program pairs law students with outside law firms to offer free legal services to about 50-60 projects annually.1

Research Interests and Teaching

Professor Belonick's research interests include:

• Criminal law and Technology
• Business Ethics
• American Legal History
• Emerging Companies1

He teaches several courses at UC Law SF, including:

• Startup Legal Garage Patent Module
• Intellectual Property Survey
• Criminal Procedure
• Property
• Professional Responsibility - Legal Ethics1

Awards and Recognition

Professor Belonick has received several notable awards for his work:

• Los Angeles Times In-House Counsel of the Year in the Education and Non-Profit Category (2021)
• American Bar Association Business Law Section National Public Service Award
• California Lawyers Association Wiley W. Manuel Pro Bono Certificate2

Additionally, he was a runner-up for the American Legal Technology Awards.2

Publications

Beyond his academic and legal work, Professor Belonick is also an author. In 2022, he published a book about the fall of the Roman Republic, showcasing his expertise in history alongside his legal acumen.5