Intellectual Property: New York

THE FIRM This firm focuses on trademark and copyright disputes, with brand protection and enforcement, including anti-counterfeiting matters, especially prominent. The group represents clients across a range of industries, but has a particularly strong reputation for clients in the fashion, apparel and luxury goods sectors. Recent highlights include achieving a preliminary injunction on behalf of Sweet People Apparel in proceedings against LA Idol Fashion, alleging studied imitations of the client's trademarked and copyrighted denim pocket designs.

Sources say: "A nimble, efficient team that has a very good understanding of the client's business and provides support in finding targeted and cost-efficient solutions."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Louis Ederer is known for his representation of fashion brands such as Gucci and Sweet People Apparel in complex litigation, particularly related to trademarks. He is popular with clients, who say: "The attention that you get from him really makes you feel like you’re his number-one priority." He is also rated as "an excellent client contact - extremely personable and commercial - and he has a great rapport with in-house lawyers." 

John Maltbie is an excellent associate, with clients commenting that he is "very reactive and experienced as well as extremely cordial." His practice focuses on IP litigation, with particular emphasis on anticounterfeiting matters, and IP prosecution.

THE FIRM Baker & McKenzie has a comprehensive trademark and copyright practice. This firm is a strong option for IP work of a global nature, with the ability to call on offices throughout the world for assistance. This results in a team especially suited to representing large global brands such as Unilever and Nokia in worldwide trademark management issues. Other clients include those in the consumer products, luxury goods, media and entertainment, computer software and biotech industries.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Pamela Church is head of the IP practice group in New York and focuses on the IP considerations of transactional work. "We love her, she's done a great job in connection with transactions," say clients. Church represents Macmillan Publishers in connection with its strategic investments in social media.

Lisa Rosaya concentrates on trademark portfolio and brand management, as well as domain name issues. She works for Unilever in managing its US trademark issues.

THE FIRM This respected firm covers patent, trademarks, copyright and trade secret work, and is engaged for contentious and noncontentious matters. The team acts for major clients in the pharmaceutical, biotech, engineering and computer science industries. One highlight was obtaining a successful jury verdict for Plasma Physics and Solar Physics in the patent infringement case Plasma Physics et al v Chi Mei Optoelectronics.

Sources say: "They follow the business and respect our sense of urgency and commitment to high quality. They understand our needs and meet them beautifully."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Robert Scheinfeld heads the firm's IP group in New York and represents plaintiffs and defendants in patent, copyright and trade secret disputes. His successes include defending Orbiscom and MasterCard in a suit alleging that their virtual card number technology infringed patents belonging to Walker Digital.

THE FIRM This firm's full-service IP practice handles work in the USA and abroad, and is particularly noted for its prowess in patent and trade secret disputes. The firm has a strong litigation background and is employed by many companies operating in the technology sector. Representative clients include IBM, Qualcomm and Merck.

Sources say: "An impressive firm that is very much on the ball. They explain very clearly the pros and cons of a certain strategy and help us to the best outcome."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Christopher Hughes focuses on complex patent, trade secret and trademark litigation, as well as providing licensing, counseling and IP due diligence in corporate transactions. His recent work includes defending Angiodynamics in a patent infringement suit concerning medical devices and defending IBM in a multidefendant patent infringement suit in the Eastern District of Texas.

THE FIRM This firm has long held a reputation for excellence in copyright matters, particularly those relating to technology, software and the internet. The group is also well respected for its trademark offering. This firm works on all types of contentious and noncontentious matters, on behalf of clients ranging from startups to multinationals.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard Dannay excels on trademark and copyright disputes within the publishing industry, and represents Penguin Group. He is regarded as a "terrific practitioner" by peers.

Christopher Jensen resolves IP disputes through negotiation and alternative dispute resolution procedures and at trial. "He has a no-nonsense approach and focuses on what's really important in a case - and he is mindful of the objective, outcome and cost," say sources.  

THE FIRM This firm's patent practice is held in high esteem by clients. Cravath represents both plaintiffs and defendants at trial, and recent work here includes defending Barnes & Noble in ITC and Western District of Washington suits filed by Microsoft alleging patent infringement relating to the Android operating system and Nook e-book readers. The group is also adept at handling trademark, copyright and trade secret issues.

Sources say: "Cravath has really developed quite a talented capability in IP."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Evan Chesler "is someone we respect tremendously as a very bright and articulate adversary and spokesperson," say his peers. He represented Bristol-Myers Squibb and Sanofi as plaintiffs in an infringement action against Apotex.

Keith Hummel focuses on coordinating global patent litigation and strategy for clients such as Medinol. He is "a very good patent lawyer who really knows how to try a case," say commentators.

Roger Brooks concentrates on courtroom litigation for technology companies. He was lead counsel for Qualcomm, defending the client against claims of patent infringement brought by ITT Manufacturing Enterprises relating to GPS systems.

THE FIRM This team focuses on copyright and trademark disputes, especially for clients in the publishing, television, film, consumer products and online information industries. Recent work includes representing a coalition of publishers’ and authors’ organizations challenging the application of the US government’s trade embargoes with Cuba, Iran and Sudan to publications. Other representative clients include Bloomberg, The New York Times and Paramount Pictures.

Sources say: "DWT possesses a great deal of IP expertise and its lawyers are very focused on practical solutions. They are also very diligent with their follow-up."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Marcia Paul is "an ace copyright lawyer who is supportive, always available and focused on my needs," say sources. She represents clients including Viacom, MTV Networks and the Estate of J.D. Salinger.

Edward Davis has a highly regarded IP litigation practice, recently representing key names in the newspaper and magazine industries as amicus curiae in litigation over the rights of publishers to create electronic archives of their periodicals. He also represents Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia and Cablevision.

THE FIRM This firm's comprehensive IP litigation offering covers trademark, copyright, patent, unfair competition and false advertising matters. The team's highlights include its defense of Yves Saint Laurent in a trademark infringement suit brought by Christian Louboutin over the use of the color red on the soles of shoes. The group also achieved victories at trial for clients including Sony Pictures and Gap.

Sources say: "This firm has terrific people and great depth. You see Debevoise on the big, sophisticated, cutting-edge cases."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Commentators are in agreement that David Bernstein is "an exceptional, dynamic lawyer and a tenacious litigator." His successes include representing American Express in its trademark and unfair competition suit against Black Card.

Bruce Keller concentrates on First Amendment, advertising, entertainment and internet IP matters. He successfully represented the NFL in a copyright infringement dispute with a producer of trophies for fantasy football leagues. "His reputation is well earned; he is a great lawyer and an excellent tutor," say sources.

THE FIRM This firm is respected for its advice on trademark and copyright issues, handling both disputes and noncontentious matters of national and global scope. The group was retained by NBTY as co-counsel to advise on defending against a false advertising claim brought by Enzymotec. Other recent clients include Procter & Gamble, Hard Rock Cafe and Boston Beer.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sandra Edelman is head of the firm’s trademark, copyright, advertising and brand management department. She practices in the areas of trademark and unfair competition, copyright and false advertising disputes and has great experience in licensing and brand name clearance. "She is superb in her field, and presents very well to a jury," say commentators.

Bruce Ewing concentrates on trademark and copyright litigation, and was engaged by Hard Rock Cafe to terminate a license agreement between the client and the owners and operators of the Las Vegas Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. He is "very well prepared for trial work, a very logical, skilled litigator," say sources.

THE FIRM This firm specializes in IP strategy, counseling and litigation. The team is well versed in representing clients from all technological industry sectors, and has notable expertise in Hatch-Waxman litigation. Clients of the firm include Forest Laboratories, Global Crossing and Honda. 

Sources say: "The combination of this being a large firm with a singular focus on IP gives them a leg-up on other firms that have multiple practice areas. The lawyers here are entrepreneurial and open-minded."

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Francescani is "a very bright guy who is a key figure in patent litigation," say sources. He has expertise in the semiconductor, optics, electronics, computer software and telecommunication industries.

THE FIRM Fitzpatrick's lawyers are routinely described as the pharmaceuticals experts of New York IP. The team is prominent across patent and trademark litigation, prosecution, licensing, counseling and transactions in other sectors too, including the computer and electronics industries, as evidenced by its long-standing relationships with IBM and Canon. Other representative clients include Gilead Sciences and Sanofi.

Sources say: "The firm is well managed, well organized and has expert knowledge and deep understanding of our technology. They perform top-quality work at a fair cost."

KEY INDIVIDUALS William Solander is "terrific - he really gets into the case, knows the science, is up to date on the law and works well with witnesses," say clients. He recently obtained a favorable decision on behalf of Sanofi and Debiopharm in a dispute with Sun Pharmaceuticals over the terms of a patent litigation settlement.

Dominick Conde concentrates on patent litigation matters related to chemistry, pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical devices and diagnostics. He represented Warner Chilcott and others in a dispute with Mylan Pharmaceuticals over an antibiotics tablet. He wins praise from clients for being "levelheaded and very service-oriented."

Nicholas Cannella is the key contact for Canon, and defended the company against patent infringement claims brought by Lodsys and others.

Market stalwart Robert Baechtold is "the dean of pharmaceuticals, he knows all the nuances of the law, and gives practical advice," say sources. He remains an important adviser to clients including Sanofi and Amgen.

THE FIRM This is a dedicated IP boutique that focuses on trademark and copyright matters in equal measure, and is also a strong option for design and unfair competition issues. The group excels in litigation, protecting and defending trademarks and copyrights and handling portfolio management, both at home and abroad. Representative clients include Clinique, Sundance Channel and Universal Music.

Sources say: "What I like about Fross is that the firm is client-focused and not simply in it to bill hours and get you into litigation - the lawyers are extremely pragmatic and really creative when it comes to our business. Their opinion trumps the idea of outspending someone."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Roger Zissu "takes a no-nonsense approach to discerning what is important in a case." His focus is on copyright, trademark and unfair competition matters, and he represents clients in the worlds of fiction, art, music and movies.

Susan Upton Douglass is admired by peers and clients alike for her trademark practice, which encompasses counseling, searching, filing, general strategizing, licensing and dispute resolution.

James Weinberger is "a fantastic litigator whose star is rising," say sources. He practices litigation, mediation and arbitration to resolve disputes in the areas of copyright, trademark and trade dress infringement, unfair competition and false advertising.

Richard Lehv concentrates on the entertainment industry, and also has expertise in comparative advertising and internet issues. He is admired for his strong track record before federal and appeal courts.

John Margiotta is a member of the firm's litigation group and has appeared before federal district and appeal courts, and before the Trademark Trial & Appeal Board. Sources appreciate that he "gives straightforward advice and is mindful of costs."

THE FIRM This firm continues to rise in the estimation of market observers. Focusing on major patent litigation, the group represents clients in the media, television, technology, software and telecommunication industries. Successes for the team have included representing Viacom in the Districts of Massachusetts and Texas in a patent infringement case alleging the Rock Band video games infringed a portfolio of patents owned by Konami.

Sources say: "Incredibly high-quality lawyers - working with them is a joy. The team works well with a board of directors and can explain all complexities easily to non-lawyers."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Josh Krevitt is engaged in high-stakes patent litigation on behalf of technology giants such as Apple, Sharp and Amazon.com. He is a "superb strategic thinker who has the ability to come in and quickly discern which pieces of a case matter," say clients.

Daniel Thomasch is recognized for his product liability and patent infringement experience, and achieved a string of litigation successes for his client Dow AgroSciences.

THE FIRM Goodwin Procter assists clients in obtaining, asserting and defending patent rights. The firm includes many trial lawyers with technical expertise in electrical and mechanical engineering, computer science, software and chemistry. The lawyers here represent clients across a broad cross-section of industries, with notable names including Campbell's, New Balance and Hewlett-Packard.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Mark Abate is "a rising young attorney who has proved to be very capable," say observers. He recently defended, at trial and appeal, IBM in a dispute with Picture Patents concerning the ownership of ten patents.

David Hashmall is the lead outside trial counsel for Teva, recently representing the client in two patent challenges filed by four generic drugs companies. The cases were brought under the Hatch-Waxman Act and involved the drug Copaxone.

THE FIRM This firm handles patent and trademark prosecution and litigation alongside licensing and transactional work. The team includes a Hatch-Waxman pharmaceuticals litigation group and licensing and technology transfer attorneys to deal with the IP aspects of M&A deals. Jones Day's clients include local, national and global companies, among them Celgene, Genentech and Marine Polymer Technologies.

Sources say: "Highly confident lawyers who continue to be a significant force in IP litigation."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Laura Coruzzi is "insightful, innovative and incredibly articulate in terms of explaining issues related to technology and patent law," say sources. She focuses on the biotech and pharmaceuticals sectors. Recent work has included representing Myriad Genetics in the case Association for Molecular Pathology, et al v U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, et al, concerning patent eligibility for isolated genetic material.

THE FIRM This firm is a heavyweight in patent litigation. Kaye Scholer has a particularly strong reputation for biotech work, and is known for its representation of branded pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer and Genentech. Other areas of expertise for the firm include the entertainment, food products and financial services industries.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Special counsel Gerald Sobel remains a sage adviser at the firm, with decades of complex IP litigation experience under his belt.

THE FIRM Kenyon & Kenyon is a specialist IP firm that has the capacity to handle the full range of IP matters, from litigation to counseling, and prosecution to licensing. The group works across patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret issues for a diverse range of clients that includes Olympus, Volkswagen and Teva.

Sources say: "One of the few remaining boutiques, Kenyon is a specialty firm in an era when talent is getting more diffuse. Quality and reliability are a given here."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard DeLucia is an accomplished patent litigator with an enviable trial record. He is a key contact for big-name clients such as Sony.

Steven Lee is "a real gent and a softly spoken scholar of the law," say sources. His doctorate in chemistry and background in commercial litigation form a potent combination for clients in the pharmaceutical, biotech, chemical and bioinformatics industries.

Michael Lennon is universally recommended as "a professional of high standing in the IP world." As a key figure in the European practice group, Lennon has a strong track record in leading prominent European clients such as Volkswagen and Bosch to trial victory.

THE FIRM This growing group has increased its count of attorneys who focus on trademark, copyright and patent law. With strong support from the firm's litigation and corporate divisions, the group is proving popular with clients across a range of industries, among them Coty, Pearson Education and AT&T Mobility.

Sources say: "The IP practice group is extremely knowledgeable and responsive, and a good option for more cost-conscious litigation."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Marc Lieberstein has "tremendous business savvy and is tenacious in his work ethic," say clients. He acts for many fashion companies, and recently succeeded at arbitration in a case for JA Apparel, obtaining a judgment against a Chinese licensee who violated the terms of the parties' license agreement.

THE FIRM King & Spalding is best known for its patent litigation strengths, but also has the capacity to provide counsel in other areas of IP, such as trademark, trade secret and false advertising litigation and trademark prosecution. The group has represented Nokia and Google in notable patent cases. Other representative clients include Coca-Cola and Avon.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Robert Perry is the managing partner of the New York office.

THE FIRM This firm's full-service IP offering continues to be a premium destination, and it has done well to recover from high-profile departures in recent years. Kirkland & Ellis has built an enviable team working in copyright, trademark and advertising matters, to add to its long-standing reputation for excellence in hi-tech patent litigation. Among its successes, the team prevailed in a complex and high-profile case before the ITC on behalf of Samsung. Other clients include Alcatel-Lucent and Intel.

Sources say: "We are consistently impressed with the attorneys we work with there, and the firm's great experience and track record in major litigation."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Preeminent trademark and copyright lawyer Dale Cendali is a rainmaker for the firm, and inspires great loyalty in clients, who say she is a "superstar attorney with an exceptional record."

The team's most prominent patent litigator, Gregory Arovas "is thriving, thanks to his sophisticated, hard-working and strategic style," say sources. He is lead counsel in high-stakes patent, trade secret, state law and commercial litigations. He currently acts in district court and ITC cases for Intel and Samsung.

Claudia Ray wins praise as a "terrific and wonderful attorney" who focuses on trademark, copyright, internet and trade secret matters, in sectors as diverse as entertainment and media, financial services, technology and consumer products. She represented TJX in a high-profile suit brought by Burberry, obtaining an early favorable settlement.

Leora Ben-Ami is a "very well-respected business adviser and people speak very highly of her," say clients. Her arrival from Kaye Scholer is an undoubted coup for Kirkland.

THE FIRM Lathrop & Gage is widely regarded for the strength of its trademark and copyright practice, a key part of its wider IP offering. The group is well equipped to deal with all prosecution, litigation and transactional matters. Active clients include Dartmouth College, Hiscox US and Medco Health Solutions.

Sources say: "Very quick and professional - but personal too. The lawyers are very well organized, thorough and helpful."

KEY INDIVIDUALS William Hansen is "a very witty, old-school gentleman who is very responsive and extremely knowledgeable." He defended jeweler Pandora in a trademark dispute.

Bridget Short is praised as "a partner who keeps her cool in stressful situations," say sources. She acts in claims of trademark and trade dress infringement, copyright infringement, unfair competition and false advertising.

THE FIRM This firm services clients in the USA and abroad, and is respected for its offering in litigation, arbitration and licensing. The group specializes in the technology and science sectors, with clients such as Bayer and Fujitsu.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Errol Taylor focuses on representing research pharmaceutical and biotech companies in patent litigation and related matters. He is an expert in Hatch-Waxman litigation and generic drug approval cases.

Christopher Chalsen is head of the firm's IP group, and specializes in patent and trademark licensing, litigation and prosecution. He represents clients in sectors ranging from electrical and computer-related technologies, semiconductors and telecommunication, to the medical sector. He is especially praised for the strength of his representation of Japanese clients.

THE FIRM This firm is a strong option for all types of IP issues, and clients benefit from the New York group's ties to the firm's network across the USA, Europe and Asia. Major work includes representing Nintendo at the ITC in a patent infringement lawsuit involving the Wii entertainment system. The team also represents NVIDIA and Dow AgroSciences.

Sources say: "Orrick is very good on client communication; they keep in touch and let you know where everything stands."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Alex Chachkes is a key contact.

THE FIRM This group is admired for its comprehensive approach to IP, and handles a broad range of patent, copyright, trademark, anticounterfeiting and trade secrets work. Best known for its role in 'bet the company' patent litigation, the firm represents big-name clients including Microsoft, Hearst and Abbott Laboratories. Recent work has included representing Endo Pharmaceuticals in three related appeals argued simultaneously at the federal circuit relating to pending patent applications.

Sources say: "A team that gets results - if we have a tough case that requires a lot of analysis and an assertive style they would be the first people we call."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Gregory Diskant is a highly respected figure in IP litigation, particularly in patent cases. He is well known for his representation of Johnson & Johnson, and recently represented a subsidiary of the company, Cordis, in an appeal against Boston Scientific.

Robert LoBue is the firm's cochair and managing partner, and has a long-standing focus on trademark and copyright work, particularly for media and entertainment clients. He recently represented Dow Jones in its theft of content claim against Briefing.com.

Jeffrey Lewis is "an excellent litigator who is very thoughtful and bright." He is also the current president-elect of the American Intellectual Property Law Association.

Geoffrey Potter "is one of the smartest, most strategic thinking, aggressive lawyers I have ever worked with in IP," said one client. He represented Johnson & Johnson in a counterfeiting claim concerning blood glucose test strips.

THE FIRM Paul Hastings is a key name for pharmaceuticals work, and is recommended for its strengths in patent litigation as well as trademark and copyright matters. The team achieved success for Boehringer Ingelheim, after being brought in at the appeal stage to reverse a finding of invalidity with respect to the patent for the client's Mirapex drug. Other representative clients include Amgen, Forest Laboratories and Galderama.

Sources say: "Strategic thinkers who work within our budgets and do not overstaff a case."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Victoria Cundiff focuses on protecting trade secrets and defending clients against claims of misappropriation. She is "exceptionally intelligent and gives practical and timely advice," say those who instruct her.

Clients praise cochair of the global IP group Joseph O'Malley for "the legal assistance he provides - which is of top quality in every detail," say clients. His vast patent litigation experience spans a range of technologies, including chemicals and pharmaceuticals.

Gerald Flattmann concentrates on biotechnology and pharmaceutical patent litigation. He successfully represented Sanofi in an action against Mylan Pharmaceuticals and ten other generic drug manufacturers for patent infringement.

Robert Sherman oversees the firm's trademark practice, and recently represented L’Oréal as licensee of Polo Ralph Lauren in a trademark infringement proceeding against the United States Polo Association. "He is a brilliant trial lawyer - as well as having expertise in all areas of IP he understands our business and works with us to achieve our goals," say clients.

Bruce Wexler is an expert trial lawyer who has recently been engaged in a string of litigations on behalf of Boehringer Ingelheim. Peers credit him with having "done a great job of building the practice."

THE FIRM This team has long been admired for its copyright practice, and has recently demonstrated its commitment to further expansion into patents with the hire of Nicholas Groombridge from Weil. The firm continues to represent major names from a wide range of industries, including the NFL, Apollo Global Management and MTV Networks.

Sources say: "When you have extremely complex matters, or matters of great significance to your business, they are an excellent choice due to their sophistication and strategic approach."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Nicholas Groombridge recently moved to the firm from Weil, and market observers say: "He is a top-notch litigator and a nice addition to the team." He has a well-established reputation as a top IP litigator, particularly for disputes in the fields of pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Groombridge's recent representations include high-profile matters for Biogen and Garmin.

Lewis Clayton maintains a strong reputation in IP litigation. He is best known for his work on copyright matters, but also handles trademark, patent and unfair competition issues. He represented client Carnival in a copyright dispute.

THE FIRM This team is riding high in the opinion of market observers, who say the firm's recent trial successes justify a move up the ranks. The litigation-focused firm continues to enhance its IP focus with the recruitment of lateral hires over the past year. Quinn achieved notable victories for clients Wyeth, Forest Laboratories and American Express.

Sources say: "A group that charges in hard, and has shown tremendous courage at trial and is fast becoming a major player."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Peter Armenio wins praise as "a strong leader and trial lawyer." Clients say: "His main strength is his ability to be tremendously strategic in setting up a case." He represents defendants and plaintiffs at trial, and is seen on the firm's biggest cases acting for clients such as Forest Laboratories and Merck.

Sandra Bresnick is highlighted for being "very bright and articulate as a first chair in patent jury trials." Her trial and appellate practice is focused on the pharmaceuticals, life sciences and medical device industries.

THE FIRM This top firm has the experience and expert knowledge to handle all types of IP matters for leading clients in the science and technology industries. The firm is viewed as strongest in patent work, though it also handles trademark, copyright and trade secrets matters deftly. With international offices in London, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Shanghai, the firm is equipped to deal with issues of international importance, and as such attracts stellar global clients like Pfizer, AstraZeneca and LG Electronics.

Sources say: "I use the firm over others because they tend to understand our overall business and provide a solution that is not only legally sound, but helps satisfy the business objective." "A practice that is deep and has lots of breadth."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jesse Jenner remains "an excellent trial lawyer with a long and successful practice," say observers. His recent engagements include representing Motorola Mobility in a multijurisdictional dispute with Microsoft.

James Haley practices in the procurement, defense and enforcement of patents on behalf of biotechnology and biopharmaceuticals companies. He is a key contact for Genzyme.

Bradford Badke is focused on the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and medical device industries, including litigation against generics companies under the Hatch-Waxman Act. Notably, he won a patent infringement suit on behalf of defendants Becton, Dickinson & Co.

Harry Rubin's practice covers IP transactions, technology commercialization, outsourcing and strategic alliances. "Harry is good at thinking through complex contracts with significant IP components, and cutting to the chase. He has a solid international reputation," say clients.

THE FIRM This firm concentrates on complex litigation for pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device companies. Sidley Austin has a strong niche in defending prescription drugs, including in Hatch-Waxman disputes. The firm represented Pfizer in patent litigation concerning testing methods and research tools used in Alzheimer’s disease research. Other representative clients include Merck and Johnson & Johnson.

Sources say: "A very forceful team. I am always happy with the way they handle my cases and the results they achieve."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Head of New York IP Thomas Beck is focused on chemical and pharmaceutical IP litigation, and his work highlights include representing Pfizer and ConvaTec in complex disputes.

THE FIRM This group offers a full-service IP practice, assisting clients with IP litigation, alternative dispute resolution and maximizing the value of their IP portfolios. The firm has offices in other key jurisdictions, benefiting clients dealing with complex international patent, trademark, copyright and advertising matters. Representative clients include Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Fresh Del Monte Produce and Pfizer.

Sources say: "An extremely effective team that has the talent to cover a broad range of issues."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Daniel DeVito recently settled a patent infringement case on behalf of Hewlett-Packard filed by WIAV Networks. Sources say he is "consistently hard working and dedicated to his clients," with notable users in the banking and food processing industries.

Edward Filardi is a "terrific attorney," according to clients. He represents those in the technology industries in matters including patents, trade secrets, unfair competition and antitrust disputes.

Trademark expert Bruce Goldner wins praise from clients, who say he is "a pleasure and so easy to work with. He consistently delivers at a high level to our satisfaction, completely understands our business and is very honest and open when it comes to giving us advice." He is skilled in IP transactional work, representing Express Scripts and The Blackstone Group among others.

THE FIRM While this firm has faced a slight dip as sources wait to assess the full impact of the recent departure of two nationally respected IP litigators, it is still engaged in cutting-edge trademark, copyright, misappropriation and patent cases. Weil is best known for its representation of those in the life sciences, medical devices, pharmaceuticals and media industries. Highlight work includes representing Microsoft in a patent infringement case against TiVo at the ITC, and commencing federal court proceedings on behalf of the entire broadcast radio industry to set music rights license fees for broadcasts of copyrighted music. 

KEY INDIVIDUALS Bruce Rich focuses on trademark and copyright work, including abundant work in the television, radio and music industries. Clients say: "He cares about the whole client and is mindful and sensitive to PR and extralegal issues. He is terrific to work with and great in trial - it was a fantastic performance."

In the words of clients, Elizabeth Weiswasser "inspires confidence." She is praised for her "strong background in molecular biology and the life sciences, which allows her to communicate effectively with scientists and medical professionals and explain scientific concepts to non-scientists."

Benjamin Marks is gaining increasing market attention and wins praise from sources as a "great, smart, hard-working litigator." His trademark and copyright practice includes misappropriation and music licensing issues.

THE FIRM This international firm is commended for its patent, trademark and copyright capabilities. The group represents clients across a range of industries including computer hardware and financial services, but is best known for its pharmaceuticals work, most notably for Pfizer. Other work includes the representation of the American Society of Composers, Authors & Publishers (ASCAP) in two licensing disputes.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Dimitrios Drivas is a key contact for Pfizer and is "at the top of his game," say sources. He is the chair of the firm's global IP group and concentrates on patent litigation and counseling, and technology transfer.

THE FIRM Willkie Farr provides a highly regarded patent offering to clients across industries including software, semiconductors, new media, medical devices and pharmaceuticals. The IP department works in tandem with the corporate and litigation groups to form case-specific teams for large-scale matters.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Chair of the IP department John DiMatteo focuses his practice on patent litigation, complex patent prosecution, trademarks, trade secrets, copyright and IP licensing. Sources describe him as "an extremely able and impressive trial lawyer."

THE FIRM WilmerHale features a strong team of professionals with industry and academic experience practicing in patent, copyright and trademark litigation. As well as expertise in federal circuit courts and the ITC, the firm is experienced in trying cases in Germany and the UK. Observers also point to the team's stellar track record in appellate matters. On the trademark and copyright side, the firm assists companies in building and managing portfolios. Clients include Novartis, Abbott Laboratories and Columbia University.

Sources say: "I am amazed at the scope, thoroughness and dedication of every member of the WH team, and how much the firm accomplished in such a short period of time."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Robert Gunther is held in high esteem by clients, who say: "His strengths include meticulous and comprehensive preparation and timely execution, incredibly effective deposition skills and an intense passion to win." He is counsel to Cephalon in the bifurcated patent portion of its patent and antitrust case against Apotex.

David Bassett chairs the IP litigation group, and focuses his practice particularly on biotechnology patent disputes. His recent caseload includes representing Analog Devices when it was sued by Patent Management Foundation.