Justice Halim Dhanidina (Ret.)

Dean, Western State College of Law

Dean Dhanidina brings an exceptional combination of judicial, legal, academic, and leadership experience to Western State. During his distinguished career, he has served as a Deputy District Attorney for Los Angeles County, a Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge, and a Justice on the California Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District. His career includes several historic milestones. He was the first Muslim judge appointed in California history, later becoming the first South Asian American justice on the California Court of Appeal and the first Muslim appellate-level judge in the United States.

He earned his Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Pomona College and his Juris Doctor from the UCLA School of Law. A dedicated educator, Dean Dhanidina has taught at UCLA, UC Irvine, Chapman University, and Western State, where he has inspired and mentored aspiring attorneys.

Beyond the bench and the classroom, Dean Dhanidina is deeply committed to developing future leaders. He serves on the Board of Trustees for the Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA) and has volunteered as an attorney coach for the school’s nationally recognized Mock Trial team, helping students develop advocacy and courtroom skills. His mentorship has contributed to county championship and state finalist performances and reflects his passion for preparing the next generation of legal professionals.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Dean Dhanidina enjoys spending time with his family and is the proud father of two children. He is also an avid Chicago Cubs fan and youth softball coach, reflecting his commitment to community, teamwork, and mentorship both inside and outside the legal profession.