Description of field of expertise

With nearly 20 years of trademark disputes and patent litigation experience, Theresa counsels both Fortune 500 and startup clients on scaling IP portfolios, brand protection, and licensing matters. Her practice also includes developing global anti-counterfeiting programs. Theresa has experience across various industries, including technology, consumer products, entertainment, and sports. Prior to returning to private practice, she served as in-house IP counsel at leading global brands, including United Airlines and Toyota. Her in-house counsel experience at leading global brands gives her the right perspective to provide clients practical, business-minded advice. Theresa is a frequent speaker on intellectual property and diversity in the law issues.

 

What advice would you offer to new attorneys interested in your field?

New attorneys interested in an IP career should explore the full spectrum of IP. When most people think of IP, they generally focus on patents (which requires a STEM degree), but IP is broader than that and includes trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, right of publicity, and more, and within these areas, there are transactional, litigation, and licensing opportunities. It’s an especially exciting time to seek careers in IP with the impact of AI on the existing framework of IP.  Understanding the field will help new attorneys find their niche.

 

Final thoughts…

Someone once said to me that Black IP attorneys are unicorns and my response was, we may be unicorns, but we exist. Building your network with intention is key in navigating the IP field. New attorneys should seek mentorship opportunities from IP industry groups while also cultivating relationships with people who understand their unique lived experience.