Dunn DeSantis Walt & Kendrick (DDWK) is pleased to announce that Akylah M. Cooper and Howard Bruno have joined the firm as associate attorneys in its San Diego office, further strengthening the firm’s litigation bench and supporting its continued growth.
“Akylah and Howie represent the next generation of litigation talent at DDWK,” said David D. Cardone, founding partner of DDWK. “Each brings substantive litigation experience, sound judgment, and a deep commitment to client service. As our firm continues to grow, we are intentional about adding lawyers who enhance our capabilities while reflecting our culture of excellence and collaboration.”
Cooper’s practice at DDWK is focused on the litigation of commercial and employment law disputes. With a multifaceted legal background that includes immigration, family law, and data privacy, she brings a client-centered and strategic approach to navigating complex disputes. In addition to her litigation practice, Cooper advises businesses on privacy and data protection matters, providing practical guidance on compliance with applicable privacy laws and best practices for safeguarding sensitive information.
Cooper earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Idaho College of Law and her Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Marketing, cum laude, from the University of Washington. She is admitted to practice in California and Washington.
Bruno represents plaintiffs in legal malpractice, employment, and catastrophic personal injury cases. Before joining DDWK, he practiced complex commercial litigation and environmental torts in the New York office of an AmLaw 100 firm, gaining experience in high-stakes, multifaceted disputes.
Bruno has maintained an active pro bono practice focused on domestic violence, immigration, and civil rights matters. In NYCLU v. City of Syracuse, he helped secure an appellate victory that made police misconduct records publicly available throughout New York State. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program.
Bruno earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law, where he served on the Student Bar Association, and his undergraduate degree from Fordham University. He is licensed to practice in California and New York.
Dunn DeSantis Walt & Kendrick provides a broad spectrum of legal services to individuals, businesses, public entities, charitable foundations, nonprofit organizations, and religious institutions. The firm maintains offices in San Diego, Irvine, Walnut Creek, Dallas, Phoenix, Boise, and Pittsburgh.
You can find additional information and resources related to helping business owners and their businesses on the DDWK website.