Sandeep Nandivada is a litigation associate in MoFo’s Washington, D.C. office. His practice focuses on civil litigation and complex internal investigations, as well as government contracts compliance. Sandeep’s civil litigation experience includes litigating high-profile bid protests across an array of subject matters, from cloud computing and space launches to professional services and healthcare.
He also has significant experience conducting investigations with False Claims Act, Anti-Kickback Statute, Procurement Integrity Act, and suspension and debarment implications. He has advised clients regarding procurement fraud, anti-corruption, procurement integrity, defective pricing, and export control issues, and has assisted clients with mandatory disclosures required under the Federal Acquisition Regulation.
The National Law Journal recently named Sandeep to its list of D.C. Rising Stars and Best Lawyers included him on their 2020 “Ones to Watch” list. He has also appeared on Law360’s list of Rising Stars for Government Contracts. Additionally, Sandeep is engaged in the firm’s pro bono efforts and was part of the legal team that represented nearly 50 faith-based organizations in filing amicus briefs in the United States Courts of Appeal in the Fourth and Ninth Circuits and the U.S. Supreme Court, in opposition to the Executive Order prohibiting refugees from around the world—including citizens of six predominantly Muslim countries—from entering the United States.
What was it that initially drew you to this area of law?
Investigations are like puzzles; to get to the solution, you have to find all the pieces and fit them together to see the big picture. I was drawn to the idea of working hand in hand with clients to put the pieces together. Investigations also present unique opportunities to learn more about clients and how they operate internally. Having been seconded as in-house investigations counsel, I know firsthand how helpful it is when your counsel knows your company inside and out.
How does the Investigations + White Collar Defense practice intersect with, or improve upon, similar practice areas?
Investigations work is a central aspect of my government contracts practice. Government contracts is a highly-regulated field replete with disclosure requirements. For example, government contractors must submit disclosures to agency inspector generals whenever they have credible evidence of certain Title 18 violations or violation of the civil False Claims Act. Contractors also face data breach disclosure requirements. And, in many cases, voluntary disclosures may be prudent. Conducting prompt and thorough investigations is critical to making such disclosures and complying with legal obligations.
Can you speak to the importance of mentorship in your career, or perhaps why you are driven to mentor others?
I have had several mentors invested in me and my career. They have encouraged my professional growth and offered opportunities to hone my skills and develop expertise in investigations work. Recognizing the positive impact that mentorship has had on my career, I feel a sense of duty to pay it forward for more junior attorneys. We can all help each other succeed.
Learn more about MoFo’s commitment to the recruitment, retention, and advancement of diverse attorneys here.