A tireless and forceful advocate, Aalok knows it takes the right combination of talent and hard work to be successful in and out of the courtroom.
Overview
Aalok is a seasoned commercial litigator and has represented defendants and plaintiffs in high stakes matters across the country. With over a decade of experience, Aalok has litigated and handled regulatory matters for individuals, small businesses and Fortune 500 companies, spanning a variety of industries, including sports, gaming, construction, agricultural, insurance and healthcare. Aalok’s commercial litigation cases involve complex and novel issues including trade secrets, trademark, product liability, breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, and disputes involving shareholders and partnerships. Additionally, Aalok is active in the construction bar, and handles defect and delay claims for his clients.
Prior to becoming an attorney, Aalok worked as a certified public accountant in Washington, D.C. He assisted businesses with technical accounting issues involving footnote disclosure, revenue recognition, troubled debt restructuring and accounting for uncertain tax positions. Influenced by his deep financial acumen, Aalok is a business pragmatist, considering clients’ business goals with the backdrop of legal and regulatory risk.
Aalok is also a Co-Chair of the Firm’s Sports and Entertainment Practice. He was named as a ‘Leading Entertainment and Sports Lawyer of the Next Generation’ by The American Bar Association (ABA). Aalok is trusted by front offices and other industry stakeholders to provide counsel relating to the future of the sports and entertainment industry. A lifelong teacher and student, Aalok has spoken at innumerable industry conferences, including those in areas of esports, smart venue technology, data capture, and legalized sports wagering and integrity. At the University of Minnesota Law School, Aalok serves as an adjunct professor and educates law students in sports law, including coaching the Sports Law Moot Court team.
As a passionate fan and a legal advocate, Aalok understands that the business of sports goes beyond the field. He has served the local community as the Chair for the Minnesota Twins Community, and advocates for businesses with the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, where he chairs the Workplace Management Policy Committee. Aalok has also volunteered with the Minnesota Zoo Foundation and the Sanneh Foundation. Aalok is an alum of the Leadership Minnesota Program with the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce.
Experience
Business Litigation
As trial counsel, obtained a complete victory on behalf of client during a seven-day jury trial in federal court. The case involved alleged breaches of a non-disclosure agreement, and claims that the client misappropriated trade secrets in order to form a competing product.
Obtained a temporary retaining order against a former employee and a competing business when proprietary business information and trade secrets were misappropriated as part of a scheme to replicate a client’s novel business plans.
Represented client in case involving violation of non-compete/non-solicitation agreements. Amicably settled case involving liquidated damages.
Represented property owner in dispute with general contractor for clouding title and violating Minnesota lien laws.
Represents owners, developers, general contractors, subcontractors and others in matters involving construction defects, delays, disruptions, and lien and bond claims.
Argued multiple disputes before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit and the Minnesota Court of Appeals.
Gaming
Counsels daily fantasy sports companies and sports wagering operators to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
Successfully represented defendant in class action litigation involving claims by plaintiffs that they were defrauded in fantasy sports contests due to alleged cheating by the Houston Astros and Boston Red Sox. Aalok obtained dismissal of all claims against his client prior to discovery.
Provide counsel for gaming companies seeking patents for novel technologies associated with horse racing, sports betting, igaming and fantasy sports.
Negotiated market access agreement for commercial gaming operators for igaming and sports betting licenses.
Sports and Entertainment
Represents professional and amateur sports teams in commercial matters involving contract negotiations, stadium operations, insurance, and other day-to-day matters.
Represented developer in construction of major league sports venue.
Represents esports organizations in negotiating and drafting commercial agreements, including venues, sponsors, and other vendors.
Represents coaches in formal proceedings with the U.S. Center for SafeSport.
Represents players and parents in conflicts with the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL).
Provides education and guidance to influencers, brands, and others dealing with issues related to name, image, and likeness (NIL).
Provide regulatory advice and counsel to sports and equipment manufacturers across different industries and sports, including football, lacrosse, hockey and cycling.
Practices & Industries
Admissions
- Minnesota
- California
- U.S. District Court, Colorado
- U.S. District Court, District of Minnesota
- U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit
Education
University of Minnesota, J.D., magna cum laude, 2013
Birmingham-Southern College, B.S., Accounting, cum laude, 2007
- Scholarship Member NCAA Division I Men's Cross Country/Track & Field, (2003-2007), MVP 2006
- 2005, 2006 Big South Conference Academic All Conference Team
