Transatlantic law firm takes a bite out of the Big Apple with New York office launch

London headquartered transatlantic law firm Womble Bond Dickinson has opened an office in New York with the addition of a group of lawyers from intellectual property boutique firm Abelman Frayne & Schwab (AFS).

With this year marking the fifth anniversary of Womble Bond Dickinson’s transatlantic combination, the firm’s continued growth has included new offices in Boston, Los Angeles, and Houston.

The team joining includes partners Julianne Abelman, a leader of the Trademark, Licensing, and Copyright team at AFS, and Marie Anne Mastrovito, of counsel Erica R. Halstead, senior counsels Lori B. Cohen and Anthony A. Coppola, and six paralegals.

With a well-known reputation across the trademark world, the team represents clients at all stages of trademark protection and litigation.

Paul Stewart, managing partner of Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP, said: “This impressive group of lawyers has represented some of the world’s top brands, providing a wide range of trademark services across several industries.

“Along with bolstering our Trademarks and Brand Management practice, this addition allows us to establish a presence in one of the world’s most important business and legal centres.”

Elizabeth Temple, CEO of Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP, added: “In alignment with our strategic plan, this office – combined with our existing presence in other key innovation centres, including Boston, London, and Los Angeles – continues our growth trajectory in markets that are driving innovation and technological change.”

Julianne and her team offer a full range of trademark services, including counselling clients in the selection of marks, providing trademark clearance searches and opinions, prosecuting trademark applications, counselling on enforcement strategies, representing clients in opposition and cancellation actions, and infringement litigation.

Julianne said: “We are excited to join Womble Bond Dickinson and establish the firm’s presence in New York. It’s clear that the firm’s strong growth has been fuelled by a disciplined effort to align its services with client needs and a commitment to maintaining a collaborative and supportive culture.”

With the addition of these new starters, Womble Bond Dickinson’s IP practice will include 140 lawyers, patent agents, and technical advisors who help clients protect innovations and capitalise on the value of their IP in a competitive marketplace.