About Me
A lawyer who codes, bridging the gap between legal expertise and technical understanding.
Bridging Law and Code
I'm Alex Shahrestani – an attorney who took a different path. While most lawyers were focusing solely on legal precedents, I recognized the profound impact technology would have on the legal landscape and made a deliberate choice: understanding code would give me a distinct advantage at this critical intersection.
My journey began with studies in both Philosophy and Computer Science before I ever stepped foot in law school. This unique combination of analytical reasoning and technical foundation allows me to approach legal challenges with a distinctive perspective – I don't just understand the law, I understand both the logical frameworks and the technology behind the issues.
Starting my firm as Shahrestani Law in 2018 straight out of law school, I built a practice focused on technology law and startup services. In 2022, I rebranded to Promise Legal PLLC to better reflect our mission of helping tech-focused businesses navigate complex legal frameworks with solutions that bridge the gap between legal requirements and technical realities. Whether I'm advising on AI regulations, data privacy compliance, or IP protection for software, my dual expertise allows me to translate between these two worlds.
What truly drives me is helping innovative companies advance their missions while navigating the legal landscape confidently. When your attorney understands both the code and the law, you get practical solutions rather than theoretical advice.
Professional Background
A unique combination of technical expertise and legal acumen
Managing Partner, Promise Legal PLLC
2022 - Present
Rebranded firm from Shahrestani Law to Promise Legal, expanding services to focus on serving technology companies and startups. Developed innovative legal solutions at the intersection of law and technology, helping clients navigate complex regulatory landscapes while fostering innovation.
Founding Partner, Shahrestani Law
2018 - 2022
Founded law firm immediately after bar admission (November 2018) through Texas Opportunity & Justice Incubator program. Built practice focused on technology law, startup legal services, and the intersection of law and innovation.
Texas Bar Admission & Pro Bono Recognition
November 2, 2018
Admitted to Texas State Bar. Achieved Pro Bono Beacon Award for three consecutive years (2016-2018) and Pro Bono College recognition. Completed over 1,000 hours of pro bono work during law school and early career.
Journal of Law and Technology at Texas, Founder
2015 - 2018
Founded the Journal of Law and Technology at Texas (JOLTT) in fall 2015, the first new academic journal at UT Law since 2000. Led the journal through to first publication in 2017. Created this platform to address the lack of technology law resources at UT, establishing discourse on emerging issues at the intersection of law and technology.
J.D. Student, UT Law School
2015 - 2018
Graduated from University of Texas School of Law with focus on technology law and intellectual property. Earned Pro Bono Scholar designation and multiple Pro Bono Beacon Awards. Participated in Texas Opportunity & Justice Incubator program.
Philosophy & Computer Science Education
Pre-2015
Completed B.A. in Philosophy at UC Irvine with AA/AS in Computer Science and Philosophy from Orange Coast College. Built unique foundation combining analytical reasoning with technical understanding that enables distinctive perspective on software, data systems, and emerging technologies in legal contexts.
Education
Academic foundation in both legal and technical disciplines
J.D., Law
University of Texas School of Law
Class of 2018. Specialized in technology law, intellectual property, and data privacy.
- Founded Journal of Law and Technology at Texas (JOLTT) in 2015
- Pro Bono Scholar & Pro Bono Beacon Award (3 years)
- Texas Opportunity & Justice Incubator Participant
B.A., Philosophy
UC Irvine
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy providing analytical foundation and critical thinking skills essential for legal reasoning and technology ethics.
- AA/AS in Computer Science & Philosophy from Orange Coast College
- Dual foundation in logical reasoning and technical understanding
- Preparation for Legal Technology Career
My Dual Skillset
The unique combination that allows me to bridge worlds
Legal Expertise
- Technology Contracts & Licensing
- Intellectual Property Protection
- Data Privacy & Cybersecurity Compliance
- AI & Emerging Technology Regulation
- Technology Startup Law
- Software as a Service (SaaS) Legal Frameworks
- Open Source Compliance
Technical Skills
- Full-Stack Web Development
- Software Architecture & System Design
- Database Management & Data Structures
- API Development & Integration
- Automation & Scripting
- Legal Tech Implementation
- Technical Due Diligence
Speaking & Publications
Sharing insights at the intersection of law and technology
SXSW CLE Program Coordinator
Leading continuing legal education programs at South by Southwest, focusing on emerging technology law and helping legal professionals stay current with rapidly evolving tech regulations.
ABA Young Lawyers Division - "On The Rise" 2022
Recognized as one of the Top 40 Young Lawyers by the American Bar Association for innovative work at the intersection of law and technology.
EFF-Austin Vice President
Serving as Vice President of the Electronic Frontier Foundation's Austin chapter, advocating for digital rights and privacy protections in the technology sector.
Texas Opportunity & Justice Incubator Graduate
Completed the prestigious State Bar of Texas TOJI program, which provided essential training and mentorship for launching Promise Legal straight out of law school in 2018.
State Bar of Texas Computer & Technology Section
Leadership member of the State Bar's Computer & Technology Section, contributing to technology law advancement and helping shape legal technology policy in Texas.
Beyond Work
A glimpse into my personal interests and pursuits
When I'm not helping clients navigate the complex intersection of law and technology, you might find me:
Building Tech Projects
Tinkering with 3D printers and developing small automation tools to solve everyday problems.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking and exploring trails around Austin, seeking the perfect balance of tech and nature.
Reading
Diving into books on technology ethics, science fiction, and the future of law and society.
Coffee Culture
Exploring local coffee shops and perfecting my home brewing techniques with the precision of a programmer.
Let's connect and explore how I can help your business
Whether you're facing a specific legal challenge or looking for ongoing counsel that understands your technology, I'm here to help.
Get in Touch