Stanford Law School’s Deborah L. Rhode Center on the Legal Profession has named Malka Herman as its new executive director. The Rhode Center is a national leader in research and scholarship on the civil justice system, legal ethics, and the legal profession. It advances access to justice and innovation in law practice through its research, teaching, and policy work.

Herman brings expertise at the intersection of research and practice, with a focus on strengthening pro bono practice in law firms, improving access to justice in immigration courts, and addressing attorney misconduct. Her scholarship has appeared in the California Law Review and the William & Mary Law Review Online.

“I deeply respect the Rhode Center’s commitment to a fair and accessible legal system and the remarkable work it has already achieved,” Herman said. “As executive director, I look forward to working with my colleagues and collaborating with partners across the field to expand access to justice and shape the future of the legal profession.”

Nora Freeman Engstrom, the Rhode Center’s faculty co-director and the Ernest W. McFarland Professor of Law, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Malka to lead the Rhode Center and champion our commitment to excellence, equity, and integrity in the legal profession. Her expertise and passion for advancing justice will be invaluable as we continue to shape the future of legal ethics and professional responsibility.”

Before joining Stanford, Herman practiced complex civil and immigration litigation as an associate at Williams & Connolly LLP. She earned her JD from UC Berkeley School of Law, where she served as a research assistant to Dean Erwin Chemerinsky. She clerked for Judge Gabriel P. Sanchez of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and Judge Jon S. Tigar of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

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About Stanford Law School

Stanford Law School is one of the world’s leading institutions for legal scholarship and education. Its alumni are among the most influential decision makers in law, politics, business, and high technology. Faculty members argue before the Supreme Court, testify before Congress, produce outstanding legal scholarship and empirical analysis, and contribute regularly to the nation’s press as legal and policy experts. Stanford Law School has established a model for legal education that provides rigorous interdisciplinary training, hands-on experience, global perspective and a focus on public service.