Finnegan Henderson Farabow Garrett & Dunner

Finnegan Henderson Farabow Garrett & Dunner maintains its status as one of the leading IP firms in the country, providing a deep bench of experts in all areas. The firm is nationally ranked in patent and trademark litigation, prosecution, copyright, PTAB and ITC proceedings. “Finnegan provides practical advice that aligns with our business strategies and risk tolerance,” a client says. “They are responsive, cost-effective and provide sound legal advice.”

The firm is a destination shop for contentious patent matters, helmed by several trial-tested attorneys. Charles Lipsey stands out as one of the leaders in the group, who after 40 years at the firm has established himself as one of the country’s foremost patent litigators. He is currently active for AstraZeneca and Eli Lilly in separate Hatch-Waxman disputes. Erika Harmon Arner is revered as one of the top post-grant experts, and is currently president of the PTAB Bar Association. Litigator John Livingstone “always thinks what is best for his client,” says a biotech contact. Livingstone currently serves as managing partner of the Atlanta office, and focuses on contentious patent matters related to life sciences technologies. He is currently active for AstraZeneca, Ajinomoto and Kaken Pharmaceuticals. J Michael Jakes has deep experience in patent disputes at the Federal Circuit, ITC and in district court. James Monroe is currently active in one of the largest Hatch-Waxman disputes to date on behalf of Biogen. The case is currently pending.

Thomas Irving and Leslie McDonell provide expert patent advice to clients, often in the life sciences space. A client who recently received IP and transactional assistance says: “Finnegan used a cross-functional approach to ensure that the appropriate staff level was handling the transaction to remain budget-conscious. Also, they made themselves available at all times to ensure timely filing.” Elizabeth Ferrill is one of the top experts in design patents, who a client says is “very accommodating, easy to deal with and extremely supportive.”

Douglas Rettew is a leader in the firm’s trademark practice, focused on protecting clients’ brands in contentious matters. “Doug innately understands our company and is a trusted business partner,” a client says. “When it’s time to go into battle, we want him on our side.” He is currently representing Under Armour, Bridgestone, Nestlé and TD Bank in trademark disputes. Danny Awdeh is “excellent” and “superb” to a client. He currently advises Varsity Brands and Marriott in enforcement matters.