A Common Overlap: Why Two IP Boutiques Launched Privacy Practices

In March 2023, Finnegan expanded its capabilities beyond IP law by launching a privacy practice led by partner Lynn Parker Dupree, former chief privacy officer at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. 

The firm felt that having a dedicated privacy practice made sense as an extension of its existing IP capability.

“For many clients, data has become one of the company’s most valuable assets, and often in-house counsel charged with protecting IP also manage data privacy,” Finnegan’s managing partner Erika Arner told Managing Intellectual Property.

“Many of our lawyers have the technical expertise needed to navigate challenging data privacy and security issues, making it a natural fit.”

Lynn adds that with the development of a new practice, a set of challenges may occur.

“But I do think I’m in the right space. The firm has received this new practice well, and I feel like it has been well-positioned for success. I don’t see any particular challenges other than the fact that it’s new,” she said.

She said the firm provides privacy support and guidance to its existing clients while also engaging new clients to the firm who have a special interest in privacy. Additionally, she said the firm tries to focus on what privacy issues mean for clients’ operations.

“We look at how we can turn the theory of privacy law into action for their businesses,” Lynn said. 

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