My name is Sheila Niaz, and I am a developer, runner, and patent attorney. My path blends technology, law, public service, and community engagement—a combination that reflects my passion for innovation, advocacy, and helping others.

I currently serve as the Treasurer of the Honorable Jimmie V. Reyna Intellectual Property American Inn of Court, and I sit on the boards of the Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association, the Minnesota Intellectual Property Law Association, and the ChIPs Twin Cities Chapter Advisory Board. I also serve as the Eighth Circuit Representative for the Federal Bar Association’s Younger Lawyers Division. These roles allow me to support mentoring, representation, and opportunities for young lawyers, women in law, and attorneys of diverse backgrounds.

Before entering practice, I served as Editor-in-Chief of the Cybaris Intellectual Property Law Review and competed as a semifinalist in the AIPLA Giles S. Rich Patent Moot Court Competition. I also worked as a volunteer attorney in the Mitchell Hamline Intellectual Property Clinic. Prior to law, I studied Computer Science at the University of St. Thomas and worked as a software engineer after graduation, building web and mobile applications for engineering and transportation clients.

Outside of work, I’m an avid runner. I’ve completed nine marathons—including Chicago and New York—and I’m currently training to qualify for the Boston Marathon. When I’m not running, I love reading, baking, photography, and exploring new trails and hiking spots.

Throughout my career, I’ve been committed to expanding access to the legal system and supporting diversity in STEM and IP law. I was honored to be recognized as a 2024 Notable Diverse Leader in Law by Twin Cities Business. I try to embrace every new challenge, inside and outside the courtroom, as an opportunity to grow and push the boundaries of what I’m capable of.