Richard 'Sasha' Costa , MCSE, MCDBA, JD, quit school just 2 credits shy of finishing college to work for Microsoft. He spent the next decade in capacities ranging from a LAN/WAN specialist to a Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT). An avid DEFCON attendee since 2000, his fascination with the clashes between the Information Security community and the legal system inspired a growing determination to bridge these cultures. In 2008, this lead him to enroll in law school.

He is passionate about using his unique blend of knowledge toward contributing to the recognition of Information Security as a bona fide, ethical, and self-regulated professional community (akin to lawyers, CPAs, architects, etc). He works as a forensic computer and cellphone consultant and expert witness for cases involving electronic evidence.

He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of New Mexico this summer, took the Bar exam last week, and is taking his final step toward the practice of law (the Multi-state Professional Responsibility Exam) the day after Black Hat.

Twitter:@Richard_Costa