Catherine L. Pugh is an experienced trial attorney, where she brings a strong foundation of litigation, meticulous preparation, and a deep commitment to protecting her clients’ rights. She is known for her clear communication, thoughtful strategy, and ability to guide individuals and families through complex and emotionally charged legal matters.

Before transitioning into private practice in California, Catherine served as a litigator with the Maryland Office of the Public Defender, gaining extensive courtroom experience and developing a strong command of constitutional and procedural issues. She also brings meaningful civil rights experience from her work with the United States Department of Justice, where she contributed to investigations involving institutional practices and constitutional compliance.

Catherine is a former law professor at Temple University Beasley School of Law, where she taught courses including Evidence and Legal Research & Writing. Her academic background and litigation experience allow her to approach matters with precision, due‑process awareness, and sensitivity to the real‑world impact legal disputes have on professionals, business owners, individuals, and long‑term family stability.

Licensed in both California and Maryland, Catherine is dedicated to providing ethical, accessible, and client‑centered representation. She ensures that every client is fully informed, heard, and supported throughout the legal process.

Awards & Honors

• Westbrook Trial Advocacy Award
• Scribes Award, Outstanding Law Review Comment
• Scriba Regis Award, Excellence in Legal Writing & Analysis
• California Bar Foundation Dreier, Stein & Kahan Scholar

Professional Memberships

• Riverside County Bar Association
• San Diego County Bar Association
• Los Angeles County Bar Association

Bar Admissions

• State Bar of California
• State Bar of Maryland

Education

• California Western School of Law, Juris Doctor, cum laude
• Howard University, Bachelor of Arts in Political Science