Steven Ragland is a highly accomplished trial lawyer known for navigating some of the most challenging civil and criminal cases of our time. With a reputation for rigorous strategy and courtroom tenacity, he has become a trusted advocate for both high-profile businesses and individuals. As clients and peers frequently observe, when the stakes are high, Steven Ragland is the attorney you want by your side.
Early Life, Education and Professional Formation
Steven Ragland earned his B.A. with high honors from Lehigh University and subsequently achieved his J.D., summa cum laude, from American University’s Washington College of Law. These academic achievements laid the groundwork for the precision and intellectual depth he brings to each matter. Early in his career, he honed his litigation skills in Washington, D.C. before joining a leading law firm in San Francisco where he acquired experience across civil and criminal domains.
Core Practice Areas of Steven Ragland
Intellectual Property & Trade Secret Litigation
In the domain of intellectual property, Steven Ragland stands out for his work on complex disputes involving trade secret misappropriation and emerging tech sector conflicts. His clients have included prominent technology companies facing high-stakes threats to their innovations. His ability to translate technical complexity into persuasive legal narratives is widely praised.
White Collar Criminal Defense & Government Investigations
Steven Ragland also commands deep experience in regulatory and criminal defense arenas. Whether representing individuals accused of fraud or defending companies under investigation for regulatory violations, he brings a nuanced understanding of investigative processes and trial strategies. His clients have ranged from corporate executives to start-ups facing severe penalties.
Complex Commercial Litigation
From partner disputes to multi-million dollar damages claims, Steven Ragland handles high-value commercial litigation with equal skill. He is sought for his capacity to lead teams, frame complex issues for juries or arbiters, and secure favorable outcomes in high-pressure environments.
Career Highlights & Notable Cases
Steven Ragland’s portfolio features cases that have shaped industries and set legal benchmarks. Among them:
- Defending a major technology company (Google) in a multi-billion-dollar copyright dispute involving Java and Android.
- Securing the dismissal of a legal malpractice claim for a law firm representing Silicon Valley clients.
- Achieving favourable outcomes in trade secret litigation for biotech firms and hardware companies.
These matters demonstrate not only his trial acumen but also his strategic versatility and his ability to prevail in both bench and jury proceedings.
What Sets Steven Ragland Apart – Unique Attributes
One of the more surprising personal details about Steven Ragland is his background as a juggling performer and his alter ego “Buttons” the clown. This unusual history contributes a surprising strength: the ability to engage an audience, maintain composure under pressure, and manage multiple threads of argument simultaneously. Through this lens, he approaches litigation with both creativity and discipline—qualities that distinguish him in the courtroom.
Leadership, Community Service & Professional Recognition
Beyond his litigation work, Steven Ragland has earned recognition for his leadership and service. He has been named among the leading litigators in America, featured by The Best Lawyers in America, and selected as a “Northern California Super Lawyer” multiple years in a row. In late 2024, he was elected to serve on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL), underscoring his commitment to advancing the profession and promoting fair justice.
Table – Steven Ragland at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | B.A. from Lehigh University; J.D. from American University |
| Firm | Partner at Keker, Van Nest & Peters (San Francisco) |
| Practice Focus | IP litigation, white-collar defense, commercial litigation |
| Notable Clients/Cases | Google, SanDisk, biotech & hardware firms |
| Professional Honors | “Leading Litigator in America”, Super Lawyer |
| Service & Leadership | NACDL Board member, disability‐rights pro bono work |
Why Clients Choose Steven Ragland
Clients in high-stakes disputes often gravitate toward Steven Ragland for several reasons. First, his breadth of experience across diverse legal issues gives him the confidence to handle novel or complex matter. Second, his courtroom style—clear, persuasive, and fearless—resonates both with juries and with opposing counsel. Third, his strategic insight: he doesn’t simply fight cases, he anticipates them. And finally, his reputation for integrity and client-focus ensures that those he represents feel heard, guided, and aligned with a strong advocate.
Challenges & Considerations in High-Stakes Litigation
While hiring a top trial lawyer like Steven Ragland offers many advantages, it also brings considerations. Complex cases often entail high legal costs, extended timelines, and uncertain outcomes. Moreover, clients must understand that even the most capable counsel cannot guarantee verdicts. Accordingly, engaging with Steven Ragland means preparing for litigation as a strategic venture—one that must align with business or personal goals and weigh risk versus reward.
How to Engage the Services of Steven Ragland
If you believe you are facing a legal dispute or regulatory challenge requiring top-tier representation, reaching out to Steven Ragland involves scheduling an initial consultation at his firm. During that meeting you would discuss the facts of your matter, assess potential strategies, align on objectives, and review fee structures. Given the nature of his practice, he typically assists clients whose disputes involve significant complexity or stakes.
Key Takeaways
In summary, Steven Ragland is an elite trial lawyer who has built a distinguished career by blending intellectual rigor, courtroom skill, and strategic vision. Whether it is intellectual property, white-collar crime, or commercial litigation, he operates at the darker corners of legal risk where thoughtful advocacy matters most. Clients who face game-changing legal challenges may find in him the partner they need to navigate uncertainty with confidence.
FAQs about Steven Ragland
Q1: What types of clients does Steven Ragland usually represent?
He represents both large corporations and individuals, especially in high-stakes litigation and regulatory matters.
Q2: Is Steven Ragland only practicing in California?
While based in San Francisco, his practice spans federal and state courts across the U.S.
Q3: Does Steven Ragland handle criminal cases?
Yes, he has a strong criminal defense background and represents clients facing criminal charges and regulatory enforcement.
Q4: What is Steven Ragland’s fee structure?
Fee arrangements vary by case complexity and client needs; typically arranged upon consultation.
Q5: Has Steven Ragland done pro bono work?
Yes, he maintains an active pro bono practice that includes disability rights advocacy and habeas corpus matters.
Final Thought
If your legal matter demands more than routine representation—if you’re confronting a case where precision, strategy, and experience will determine success—then Steven Ragland stands out as a formidable option. Getting the right attorney is only part of the equation; aligning expectations, objectives, and resources with a partner like him can make the difference between mere defense and true victory.
