Specialist Chapter: How Brands Manage Trademark Litigation in the Downtimes – and How Private Practice Can Provide What They Need

Explaining the importance of brand protection to corporate executives can be challenging, especially when litigation is introduced during times of economic uncertainty. World Trademark Review sat down with in-house counsel and Finnegan partner Danny Awdeh to discuss the relationship between trademark counsel and corporate stakeholders as well as how best to navigate the intricacies of brand management.

Danny commented on expectations from clients with respect to what they’re looking for in an external law firm. He said:

“We have absolutely seen interest in diversity as a growing concern. Clients want their law firms to reflect who they are and it’s up to us to provide them with a diverse group of attorneys to work with. Finnegan has placed a huge emphasis on diversity, and we are seeing that diversity is often at the top of the list of requirements from prospective clients. Even in a litigation matter, you need a team that's diverse and capable of providing a full range of perspectives.

I think it’s also critical to understand the client’s industry and what they are trying to achieve with their business. If we understand this, we can provide the best and most appropriate counsel, and look at contentious matters through a commercially orientated lens. If you are not sensitive to the disruption litigation can bring to a client’s business, or if you are not fully aware of how things could play out relative to a client’s business interests, then I think it's very difficult to navigate litigation effectively. For me, that is my number one priority. Of course, having a proven track record that gives the client confidence that you have successfully navigated these issues before and that you're giving practical advice based on experience is crucial.”

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