Michael Hellbusch

Partner

Intellectual Property

(714) 662-4691

Education

University of San Diego School of the Law (J.D., 2008)

University of San Diego (B.A., 2005)

Certified Information Privacy Professional –United States (CIPP-US)

Certified Information Privacy Professional—Europe (CIPP-E)

Certified Information Privacy Management (CIPM)

Bar & Court Admissions

State Bar of California

U.S. District Court for the Central and Southern Districts of California

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit

Services

Industries

Overview

Mike Hellbusch is a partner whose practice focuses on privacy and internet technology law, with particular emphasis on the legal and operational issues arising from the collection, use, disclosure, and protection of personal information. He advises clients on compliance with a broad range of privacy and data protection laws, including U.S. state privacy laws, the GDPR, GLBA, FCRA, HIPAA, and related regulatory frameworks.

Drawing on an early career in litigation focused on consumer protection and internet-related disputes, Mike brings a practical, risk-based perspective to privacy counseling and compliance strategy. He also works closely with the firm’s litigation department on privacy-related disputes, including matters involving the California Invasion of Privacy Act, and has experience defending clients against claims alleging unlawful wiretapping and the use of pen registers and trap and trace devices.

In addition to his counseling and litigation-related work, he advises clients on the development and implementation of privacy-forward business practices. His work includes drafting and revising privacy policies, online terms, and related digital agreements, as well as internal policies and procedures designed to support enterprise privacy compliance. He holds privacy law certifications through the International Association of Privacy Professionals and regularly presents on privacy and AI-related topics.

Mike serves as head of the firm’s privacy and AI committees, where he focuses on emerging issues in privacy governance, AI regulation, and business integration. He advises on the responsible adoption and use of AI technologies, with attention to evolving legal requirements, operational risk, and organizational readiness.

Experience

Publications

Speaking Engagements/Publications
  • "Privacy, Security and GDPR: A Legal Perspective for 2018" (Webinar)
  • "2017 Legal Trends for Nonprofits" (Webinar)
  • "Cyber Security Threats and Solutions for Nonprofits" (Webinar)
  • "Cyber Risk Management and the Law," 11th Annual Gianneschi Summer School for Nonprofits Conference Proceedings
  • "Digital Assets of the Deceased, Privacy, and the Law,"  PFAC 21st Annual Educational Conference
  • "Fiduciaries and the Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Access Act," Professional Fiduciary Association of California Southern Regional Education Day
  • "What You Should Know About Cybersecurity," Southern California Veterinary Medical Association Newsletter

Awards & Affiliations

Memberships & Associations
  • Co-Chair, International Association of Privacy Professionals (CIPP/US, CIPM), Orange County Chapter
  • Member, Orange County Bar Association
  • Member, Los Angeles Bar Association
  • Member, Irvine Chamber of Commerce