Celebrating Paul Padda: 2026 Legacy Award Recipient

Reflecting on a Career in Service

by Paul S. Padda, Esq.

The work of a lawyer is ultimately about people: listening carefully, preparing thoroughly, and standing beside those who need an advocate. That is what makes this recognition meaningful to me.

On Saturday, October 24, I will have the honor of receiving the South Asian Bar Association of Las Vegas’s (SABA Las Vegas) 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award at the Bollywood Night Gala at Treasure Island Hotel and Casino. It is an opportunity to reflect on the people and purpose behind the work.

A Career Built on Community

Before founding Paul Padda Law, I served as a federal prosecutor. That experience continues to shape my practice: prepare thoroughly, act with integrity, and respect the people whose lives are affected by the law.

My connection to SABA Las Vegas began with its founding in 2019. I helped establish the organization and served as board chair. Proud of my South Asian heritage, I want aspiring South Asian attorneys to have opportunities and a supportive community as they build their careers in Las Vegas.

Justice Shouldn’t Depend on What You Can Afford

Our responsibility to the community does not end at our office doors. That is why our firm sponsors Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada’s Community Justice Fellowship Program.

Through the fellowship, our firm funds competitive salaries for local lawyers pursuing public service in Las Vegas. The goal is straightforward: help lawyers with a passion for serving others build sustainable, long-term careers.

What This Recognition Means to Me

In reflecting on this award, I return to hard work and how we treat one another:

“Receiving this award is an honor. I endeavor to be a voice for the voiceless and to show young lawyers that there are no shortcuts to hard work. How we treat people matters. I am reminded of the words often attributed to Maya Angelou: ‘People will never forget how you made them feel.”

A case’s outcome matters deeply. So does knowing that your lawyer listened, took your concerns seriously, and treated you with dignity throughout the process.

Celebrating Together on October 24

Judge Tina Talim, SABA’s judicial liaison, offered these kind words ahead of the gala: “Congratulations to Paul Padda on receiving SABA Las Vegas’s 2026 Legacy Award.” She added that the organization looks forward to honoring Paul’s profound impact that evening.

The gala will also recognize this year’s SABA Las Vegas scholarship recipients, hardworking students beginning their legal careers. Sharing the evening with the next generation makes this honor especially meaningful.

At Paul Padda Law, we believe every client deserves to be heard and treated with dignity and respect. If you need legal help, we welcome the opportunity to listen and discuss how we can help.