Anita Khandelwal

Anita Khandelwal is a partner whose practice focuses on labor and employment law and litigation. She advises public and private clients and represents them in trial and appellate matters in state and federal courts. Her work reflects strong advocacy, careful judgment, and a practical understanding of complex legal disputes. Anita is known for combining litigation skills with a deep public service background that strengthens her counsel across matters and cases.

Anita earned her B.A. from Yale University and her J.D. from Yale Law School. Her education provided a strong foundation in legal reasoning, advocacy, and public service. That training continues to shape her thoughtful approach to employment disputes, investigations, and appellate work. Combined with clerkships on the Third Circuit Court of Appeals and the Western District of Texas, her academic background supports clear analysis and effective representation in complex matters.

In her legal career, Anita has handled labor and employment matters involving collective bargaining, employee discipline, grievance responses, settlement negotiations, and internal investigations. She has also worked extensively on reasonable accommodation processes and hiring practices designed to broaden opportunities. Before returning to private practice, she led a large public defense department, where she managed significant operational and legal issues and advanced broader criminal justice reform efforts through strategic leadership.

Anita Khandelwal’s litigation practice is informed by substantial courtroom and public sector experience. She previously served as a federal defender, giving her valuable trial insight and a strong understanding of advocacy under pressure. Her work today reflects that same commitment to careful preparation and effective representation. Anita advises clients facing sensitive legal challenges with clarity and professionalism, helping them navigate employment and litigation matters with trusted counsel and a strategic approach.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Pacifica Law Group LLP
• Member, Washington State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Washington

Education

• Yale Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Yale University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges