10/24/2025
Sewnet Asrade Degu is a San Jose-based attorney specializing in family law, immigration, and personal injury, who is noted for his client-centered practice and community engagement. An Ethiopian-American, Degu draws on his own background and bilingual skills in Amharic to offer culturally competent legal counsel to a diverse clientele. Through his private practice, the Law Offices of Sewnet Asrade Degu, he has built a reputation for integrity, compassion, and a commitment to justice, particularly for vulnerable populations navigating complex legal challenges.
Client-centered legal practice
Since founding his firm in 2007, Degu has differentiated his practice through a highly client-centered approach. Rather than focusing on a single area, his work spans several interconnected fields, allowing him to address the multifaceted legal needs of individuals and families. This holistic approach is especially visible in his immigration practice, where he assists clients with family-based visas, asylum claims, deportation defense, and naturalization. His fluency in Amharic and his deep understanding of the immigrant experience enable him to provide legal services that are not only effective but also compassionate and culturally sensitive.
In family law, Degu provides guidance on issues such as divorce, child custody, and spousal support, focusing on protecting his clients' rights and securing their futures. In personal injury cases, he advocates for those injured due to negligence, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. This diverse yet interconnected range of services allows his firm to serve as a comprehensive legal resource for many in the community.
Community engagement and honors
Beyond his legal practice, Degu is recognized for his active engagement and positive impact on the local community. He has been publicly honored for his contributions, including receiving commendations from the City of San Jose in 2023. He has also been acknowledged by local Ethiopian community organizations, demonstrating his strong ties to and support for the diaspora. These awards underscore a commitment that extends beyond the courtroom, reflecting a broader mission to serve and uplift his community. His firm's mission statement explicitly references this dedication, noting a commitment to "making a positive impact... through pro bono work, volunteerism, and support for local initiatives".
A model of compassionate advocacy
Sewnet Asrade Degu's career provides a compelling example of how a legal practice can be built on a foundation of integrity and compassion. His work in immigration, family law, and personal injury addresses some of the most critical and challenging issues that individuals face, while his client-centered approach ensures that each case is handled with empathy and care. By leveraging his personal and cultural background, he has created a practice that is deeply rooted in his community, serving as both a trusted legal advisor and a compassionate advocate for those in need.