Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan

Litigation boutique Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan receives a top ranking for its specialization in patent disputes for clients in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device sectors. The firm is also notable for its capability in Hatch-Waxman matters for branded drug makers. "They have a stable of trial lawyers," a peer says. "If they are on the other side of the 'v,' you know you are in for a battle." Another peer remarks, "When I think of who our biggest competitors are, they immediately pop into my head."

Life sciences global co-chair Peter Armenio is one of the firm's leading ANDA litigators, and has a national reputation as an IP trial lawyer. Notable representations include Forest Laboratories, Mallinckrodt and GlaxoSmithKline. Raymond Nimrod was involved in the high-profile CRISPR dispute Regents of the University of California v Broad Institute, which was decided favorably at the Federal Circuit for client Broad Institute. For his role in the matter, Nimrod was awarded New York General Patent Litigator of the Year by LMG Life Sciences.

Nick Cerrito leads the national life sciences practice, and is also noted for his ability as a trial-ready lawyer for branded pharmaceutical clients. Eric Stops focuses his practice on pharma patent disputes, with additional expertise in FDA counseling, portfolio management and opinions.

Experienced patent litigator Colleen Tracy James joined the firm from Mayer Brown last year, adding to the firm's bench of trial lawyers active in the Hatch-Waxman space.