Talent Spotlight: Shezi Sardar – Harnessing Lawtrades’ Flexibility for Rewarding Work

Shezi Sardar is an attorney and actor based out of New York City. He has over a decade of legal experience, encompassing both litigation and transactional matters, and serves as a strategic partner to his in-house clients. As an actor, Shezi has been seen on such shows as Law & Order and Blue Bloods.

Tell me a bit about your professional background.

I'm a lawyer focused on commercial legal matters across the broader spectrum of technology, digital media, adtech, AI. I started my legal career over 15 years ago as a commercial litigator in New York, eventually transitioning to a transactional practice. This covered financial services (broker dealers, hedge funds, fintech, institutional banking), ecommerce, startups and emerging markets, and technology innovation. I served as Associate General Counsel and Data Protection Officer for AccuWeather, which encompassed a wide range of responsibilities including complex contract negotiations, playbooks, privacy-by-design, and regulatory. At Lawtrades, I've worked with Yelp, DoorDash, and Sony Interactive Entertainment, facilitating complex deals that drive new market opportunities. My interest in cutting-edge technology has driven much of my legal career. It's enabled me to contribute to each client's mission and culture in a more expansive and rewarding way.

When did you first learn about Lawtrades and what prompted you to join the platform?

I learned about Lawtrades through one of its co-founders, Ashish Walia, at a legal networking event. As someone who built a law practice early in his career, I understood the value of building strong, sustained relationships. The incredible people at Lawtrades and their passion for the market really stood out. My curiosity and interest in flexible legal engagements also contributed to my decision to join Lawtrades. It was a perfect fit with my technology and corporate focus. I have creative projects in the entertainment industry as well, so having some flexibility aligned with my interests.

Can you tell us more about your experience with Lawtrades and how many engagements you've had?

My experience with Lawtrades has been exceptional. I've truly enjoyed working with the team over the last few years.

I've had four engagements, each one being unique and rewarding. One of the most dynamic aspects of working with high caliber clients is the deeper insight I gain in terms of market strategies and consumer forecasting. Ensuring a competitive advantage in the marketplace contextualizes my approach to legal work. I aim to maintain a balance between commercial opportunity and legal risk, and see myself as a member of the greater team driving a deal.

What is your favorite aspect of Lawtrades’ tech?

Its seamless and user-friendly use. The Lawtrades' app is excellent, as is the desktop platform. Building my lawyer profile and working with the Lawtrades team has strengthened my sense of community. I find the tech accessible, with a strong display of opportunities in real-time.

How do you establish strong, long-term relationships with clients?

Having been a legal entrepreneur in my career, I have always relied on building relationships. The legal skill and acumen are important, but to invest in other people is half the battle. I aim to understand the motivations of each client--what's driving their thinking and decisions? What's important to them? What are the key obstacles and challenges they face in their specific roles and departments? The answers provide insight and allow me to shape my own approach as their counsel.