Intellectual Property

Arnold & Porter's IP team specializes in general patent litigation, Hatch-Waxman disputes and patent strategy for clients across technology areas. Major IP clients of the firm include Boston Scientific, Hologic, Sanofi and Bayer.

IP group co-chair Matthew Wolf was involved in high-profile litigations for a number of major life sciences clients, including Boston Scientific in a global patent dispute against Edwards Lifesciences. The matter settled in early 2019, resulting in a $180 million payment to Boston Scientific. Wolf was awarded General Patent Litigator of the Year in Washington, DC by LMG Life Sciences for his active year in the space.

Litigation partner David Barr specializes in Hatch-Waxman and biotechnology disputes. Barr, Wolf and Silicon Valley partner Deborah Fishman were involved in the closely watched antibody dispute Amgen v Sanofi, which recently concluded at retrial. Daniel DiNapoli and Aaron Stiefel are acting for Pfizer in Hatch-Waxman litigations defending against generic challenges to the client's Xeljanz and Bosulifproducts.

For patent strategy, David Marsh is recommended for his expertise managing life sciences patent portfolios. He is currently active for Bayer and Bruin Biometrics in prosecution and strategy.

DC-based IP firm Bookoff McAndrews is focused on patent prosecution and strategy most notably for clients in the medical device sector, but continues to grow its presence in the biotechnology area. "The firm provides excellent service across all IP requirements in the life sciences sector," a client says. "If I had to name one firm I consider my biggest competition, I would say it's Bookoff," a peer says.

Founding partners Les Bookoff and Roland McAndrews offer decades of experience as patent practitioners, with backgrounds from a global IP firm. Both partners are active for a major medical device company, managing patent applications and due diligence investigations for the client.

Partner Dinesh Melwani is a "young, hungry attorney who is really smart," a competitor says. Melwani is counsel to a leading biotechnology company, assisting with technologies related to drug preparation and delivery. For his work in the space and reputation among peers, Melwani was shortlisted by LMG Life Sciences for the DC Patent Strategy & Management Attorney of the Year award in 2019.

Boston firm Choate Hall & Stewart is well known for its expertise in patent prosecution and strategy for life sciences clients, earning top ranking in these areas. The firm also has a significant practice focused on pharmaceutical patent litigation. "You know you're in good hands there," a peer says about the firm's prosecution group.

Life sciences co-chair Brenda Jarrell is a leader at the firm with a national reputation as a patent strategist. "She's wonderful," a peer says. "I have nothing but good things to say about her." Another peer adds, "I think she is doing an outstanding job." Jarrell currently advises Wave Life Sciences in prosecution matters related to its genetic medicine portfolios. She was shortlisted by LMG Life Sciences for the Massachusetts Patent Strategy & Management Attorney of the Year award in 2019. IP co-chair Charles Lyon focuses his practice on patent counseling and strategy. He and partner Rolando Medina are currently advising a client in the gene editing space.

In the litigation group, co-chair Eric Marandett continues to be active for a number of clients in patent disputes. "He is really handling some of the most significant cases that are being done," a competitor says. Marandett recently acted for Takeda in a legacy Shire matter at the Federal Circuit related to an enzyme replacement therapy patent. The appeal was dismissed in favor of the client.

Cooley earns top ranking in prosecution and strategy for its deep bench of life sciences practitioners focused on the pharmaceutical, medical device and biotechnology areas. Peers single out the firm in particular for the group's expertise in deal-oriented IP work. "They do a fantastic job on the licensing side in due diligence," a competitor says. The firm also has significant expertise in patent litigation, notably in the biologics arena.

Global patent counseling and prosecution chair Ivor Elrifi is a "force of nature" according to a peer. Elrifi, this year's Patent Strategy & Management Attorney of the Year in New York, has developed a status as one of the leading attorneys for prosecution and transaction-heavy patent work. He recently advised clients in the gene therapy and diagnostics areas on patent matters.

Mika Reiner Mayer is another award winner at the firm, this year earning recognition as California's Patent Strategy & Management Attorney of the Year by LMG Life Sciences. Mayer's practice involves prosecution and portfolio management for clients in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries. She currently advises a biotechnology company on IP matters related to its CAR-T therapy technology. Boston managing partner Heidi Erlacher recently advised a biotech client in relation to an antiviral drug. Seattle's William Christensen assists companies in the pharmaceutical, biotech, clean energy and medical device spaces.

For litigation, Michelle Rhyu is one of the firm's notable practitioners for her involvement in biologics disputes. She recently acted for Celltrion in a suit against Genentech involving entry of a biosimilar version of Rituxan. The case settled prior to Celltrion's win at the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. Rhyu was shortlisted for General Patent Litigator of the Year in California by LMG Life Sciences.

DC-based firm Covington & Burling offers deep expertise in general patent litigation and Hatch-Waxman disputes. The firm is highly ranked for its strength handling Hatch-Waxman cases for branded drug companies. A competitor in the patent litigation space says: "Any time I have anything with Covington I am impressed with them."

George Pappas is a leading litigator in the life sciences sector, with deep experience in ANDA litigations. Notable representations include AstraZeneca, Bristol-Myers Squibb and Merck. Christopher Sipes is deemed a "good courtroom lawyer," and a "real intellect in the field" by a peer. He was recently involved in the noteworthy case before the Federal Circuit Momenta Pharmaceuticals v Bristol-Myers Squibb, which resulted in a precedential decision regarding standing in an IPR appeal. For his work in the matter, Sipes was shortlisted for the DC General Patent Litigator of the Year award. The case was also recognized as one the year's Patent Impact Cases in 2019.

Jeffrey Elikan is another standout practitioner serving pharmaceutical clients in patent disputes against generic challengers.

Longstanding firm Cravath Swaine & Moore is a staple amongst New York practices, and in IP offers a noteworthy group of attorneys handling life sciences-oriented patent litigation. The firm's technology area coverage includes matters related to pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and biologics.

Firm chairman Evan Chesler is a leader across litigation areas, not least in IP, where he has made his mark in high-profile patent trials. Alongside Chesler in the firm's New York base is Keith Hummel, who has extensive experience in patent litigation for life sciences clients. "He stood out," a peer from a recent litigation says of Hummel. "You wouldn't think of Cravath for IP, but I have been really impressed with him and his team. They get shit done. You have a list of 20 things that need to be done and they just pound that work out." Hummel and partner David Greenwald recently took part in the news-making antibody case Amgen v Sanofi, which resulted in a jury verdict in favor of client Amgen after the February retrial. For his work in the matter, Hummel was shortlisted for the New York Patent Litigator of the Year award by LMG Life Sciences.

Dechert's life sciences team includes a large group of professionals focused on all areas of intellectual property. The firm is nationally ranked for its expertise in Hatch-Waxman disputes for branded companies and patent strategy. A recent patent client says the firm provided "very creative work that added significant value to a portfolio." Commenting on the firm's recent growth in personnel, a peer says: "They are very active in the lateral market and have been for a while. They are a very fine law firm." Another peer says, "They are definitely one to look out for."

Andrea Reid co-chairs the firm's global life sciences group and is an expert in strategic patent counseling and portfolio management. She recently advised a clinical stage biopharmaceutical client PureTech in a multiyear deal with Hoffman-La Roche valued at a potential $1 billion in milestones. This year she was shortlisted for the Patent Strategy & Management Attorney of the Year in Massachusetts. Silicon Valley-based Jonathan "DJ" Loeb provides expertise in patent litigation and strategic counseling.

In litigation, practice group leader Martin Black is deemed a "very fine lawyer" by a peer, and is noted for being a steadfast trial presence in the Hatch-Waxman arena. He and Princeton partner Robert Rhoad recently acted for Endo Pharmaceuticals at the Federal Circuit, which affirmed a district court decision in favor of the client.

Stephen Rabinowitz recently came to the firm from Hughes Hubbard & Reed, bolstering the firm's strength in IP litigation. Up-and-comer Kassie Helm was awarded US Rising Star in Intellectual Property by LMG Life Sciences for her significant work in the biologics space.

Bay Area-based Durie Tangri is a new entrant to the LMG Life Sciences rankings, earning recommended status nationally for its practice focused on general patent litigation. The firm has a strong reputation for litigating technology cases that are on the vanguard of IP law, exemplified by its continued work in the biosimilar arena.

A peer says the firm is "pound-for-pound the best patent litigation shop in the country." Another peer says: "The quality ripples through the entire firm. They are all pretty stellar – from the most senior to the most junior folks."

Co-founder Daralyn Durie is deemed "one of the best trial lawyers in the country" by a peer. "She is a true superstar," another peer adds. Durie is notable for her activity in large molecule cases, and continues to serve as litigation counsel to a major company in this area.

Joshua Lerner has a wide-ranging practice in litigation, which includes significant experience in IP disputes. Prior to his joining the firm Lerner was senior litigation counsel at a life sciences company.

Fenwick & West is nationally ranked in patent prosecution and strategy for its team of attorneys versed in medtech and biotechnology. The firm recently made news with the addition of a Hatch-Waxman-focused patent litigation group in New York.

Daniel Becker focuses on patent prosecution and strategic counseling for clients in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. A peer says Becker is a "top-notch patent strategist in both small molecule drug and complex biologics," adding he is a "great listener" and "highly creative." Becker was recently part of a team that advised biotech company Invenra in its collaboration and licensing agreement with Exelixis. Robert Hulse is a key member of the firm's digital health practice, marrying his expertise in software and technology with Fenwick's life sciences clientele.

In New York, Jeffrey Oelke is well-versed in Hatch-Waxman disputes for branded drug makers. He is a significant part of the firm's growing profile in life sciences patent litigation.

Adam Gahtan debuts as an LMG Life Sciences star this year for his practice focused on patent litigation. He recently petitioned for Athena Diagnostics requesting en banc rehearing by the Federal Circuit of the pivotal Athena v Mayo case.

Finnegan Henderson Farabow Garrett & Dunner earns top ranking across all practice areas in life sciences IP, including general patent litigation, Hatch-Waxman, patent prosecution and strategy. The IP firm is particularly notable for its reputation as a leader in PTAB and Federal Circuit matters. In regards to the firm's prosecution group, a client says: "They are highly skilled at writing and prosecuting applications. They have a great number of attorneys at different levels, and can handle the most complex cases even in short time frames."

A peer says of the group's patent litigation presence: "I think of them as being a stalwart in this area."Charles Lipsey in part contributes to the firm's reputation as a go-to litigation practice, himself drawing on more than 40 years of experience in IP. He is currently representing AstraZeneca in a dispute against Zydus involving the client's blockbuster Farxiga product.

Jill MacAlpine is "very creative and knowledgeable" according to a peer. "She handles work on tight timelines and uses her team well." MacAlpine is currently active in the Farxiga matter for AstraZeneca, and in prosecution is advising multiple major pharmaceutical and biotech companies. James Monroe is handling one of the largest Hatch-Waxman litigations ever filed, involving 27 generic challengers to client Biogen's Tecfidera product.

Thomas Irving is a nationally renowned patent prosecutor and expert on the America Invents Act. "Everybody knows Tom and he's wonderful," a peer says. Other peers call him "brilliant" and"impressive." Irving was recently active for a pharmaceutical client in a PTAB matter. Leslie McDonell is managing partner of the Boston office, focusing on patent prosecution and strategic counseling to clients in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors.

Atlanta partner John Livingstone is new to the stars list this year for his noteworthy practice concentrating on life sciences patent litigation. He is currently active for AstraZeneca, Kaken and Ajinomoto in separate patent disputes.

Fish & Richardson is highly ranked across practice areas in life sciences IP, including general patent litigation, Hatch-Waxman, patent prosecution and strategy. The firm is described as a "litigation powerhouse" by a peer, and in prosecution is noted by a client for the group's combination of "in-depth scientific knowledge with legal expertise" and an added "sound business perspective to the overall patent strategy."

Juanita Brooks earns national acclaim for her practice focused on patent litigation, and is turned to by many of the firm's major clients for high-stakes disputes. She recently acted for Gilead in a Federal Circuit appeal, which affirmed the vacatur of a $200 million verdict against the client. This year, Brooks was awarded California General Patent Litigator of the Year by LMG Life Sciences.

Chad Shear and Jonathan Singer are acting for Gilead in the appeal of a decision that wiped out the largest patent infringement damages award in history. Shear is singled out by a client for his "excellent knowledge of the law" and "good business mind." Dorothy Whelan is a national expert on post-grant proceedings, serving as co-chair of the practice dedicated to Patent Office disputes. She recently defended client Merial in multiple IPRs challenging vaccine patents.

In the non-contentious arena, Teresa Lavoie is one of the firm's practitioners focused on patent strategy and portfolio development, most notably for clients in the biotechnology space. Janis Fraser is another leading patent attorney with a focus on the life sciences sector. She has deep experience as a counselor to biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, and is noted for her work related to biologics. "Janis is a trusted advisor in patent prosecution strategy and opinion drafting," a client says. "She has a depth of knowledge that is unmatched in the field of biologics patent law."

Gwiliym Attwell is well-versed in patent prosecution, strategy and post-grant proceedings. He was recently involved in the matters for Merial, and is advising multiple life sciences clients in strategy and portfolio development.

Gibson Dunn & Crutcher is ranked nationally for its strength in general patent litigation, supported by a group of seasoned trial lawyers with life sciences expertise. The firm is also notable for its Hatch-Waxman practice representing branded drug makers.

Jane Love is one of the firm's leading litigators, and recently took part in one of the year's noteworthy pharmaceutical cases Novartis v Ezra Ventures. The suit, which was selected as a Hatch-Waxman Impact Case of the Year, dealt with the issue of obviousness-type double patenting. Love was shortlisted for New York General Patent Litigator of the Year for her role in the matter.

Wayne Barsky is co-chair of the firm's IP practice group. He recently acted for St Jude Medical in a case filed by a non-practicing entity, which was dismissed with prejudice in favor of the client. Life sciences group co-chair Tracey Davies is representing Sanofi in a five-patent Hatch-Waxman dispute related to the client's Lantus diabetes products.

New to the stars list is New-York based litigator Robert Trenchard, who was active on the award-winning Novartis matter involving double patenting.

Boston-based Goodwin Procter offers a full-service life sciences IP practice, supported by top national rankings in general patent litigation, Hatch-Waxman and patent strategy. The firm's litigation group is notable for its representation of generic pharmaceutical makers and its activity in the biosimilars area.

In patent strategy, a peer says about the firm: "They are at the forefront of biologics and have led the market." Goodwin's appellate team was involved in one of the most closely watched life sciences cases of the year, Helsinn v Teva, which resulted in a Supreme Court decision related to the "on-sale bar." The case was recognized as a Hatch-Waxman Impact Case of the Year by LMG Life Sciences.

IP litigation co-chair Daryl Wiesen is well-versed in disputes related to pharmaceutical and biotechnology. "He is just a superb lawyer," a peer says. "It's a pleasure to be litigating against someone who is really talented. He brings the fight to you." Elaine Hermann Blais, who heads the litigation department in the Boston office, is one of the firm's specialists in biopharmaceutical matters. "She really impressed me," a peer says. "She's one of those people who I think represents her clients well in the sense that she's a tough advocate, but has really good judgments about what the important things are in a case." Both Wiesen and Blais recently represented Celltrion and Teva in a biosimilar dispute against Genentech. The matter settled in late 2018.

Elizabeth Holland is well known for her experience in Hatch-Waxman litigation, often for generic pharmaceutical clients. She recently acted for Teva entity Actavis in a suit brought by Cosmo Technologies and Valeant, which was decided favorably in district court and affirmed on appeal. "Elizabeth Holland is exceptional, and she has a tremendous team," a peer says.

In the non-contentious space, Theresa Kavanaugh focuses her practice on patent prosecution and portfolio development for early stage companies. She recently assisted a biopharmaceutical company in a licensing agreement with a major life sciences company. Duncan Greenhalgh has a strong reputation as a patent advisor to life sciences companies and a "great depth of biotech knowledge," according to a peer.

The firm recently brought on partner Michael Shuster from Fenwick & West, bolstering the group's offering in patent strategy and portfolio development. A peer says Shuster is "superb both tactically and strategically."

Greenberg Traurig offers a full-service IP group focused on the life sciences industry, earning national ranking in all areas, including general patent litigation, Hatch-Waxman disputes, patent prosecution and strategy. The firm boasts a sprawling network of offices in key IP jurisdictions like Boston, New York, Washington DC and Chicago, to name a few. "The life sciences IP team at Greenberg Traurig is extremely knowledgeable in many areas of pharmaceutical patent work, and always delivers results on time," a client says. "Communication with the team is never a problem, and they work well with the company's inside IP team to best protect our valuable IP assets."

The firm's life sciences practice is led by Boston partner and co-chair David Dykeman, who focuses on patent procurement and strategy for clients in the medical device space, among other areas. A peer mentions Dykeman is a strong patent practitioner for medical device clients. "He's got a good name and is well known in the space," the peer says. Melissa Hunter-Ensor is vice-chair of the patent prosecution group, who provides expert IP counseling to life sciences clients. Some of her notable work includes building patent portfolios for companies in the biotechnology sector.

A client says about prosecution co-chair Barry Schindler: "If you want a top-notch, intelligent and honest IP attorney, you need not look further." The client adds Schindler and his team are "always available on the fly to answer specific questions or give advice." Fang Xie is co-chair of the biotechnology and pharmaceutical practice, specializing in strategic counseling and portfolio development for the firm's life sciences clientele.

Scott Bornstein is global co-chair of the firm's IP and patent litigation practice groups, labeled by a client as "enthusiastic and creative." He is active in the firm's Hatch-Waxman group, helming patent disputes for notable generic drug makers including Teva and B Braun. Richard Pettus is another first-chair patent litigator and asset to the firm's pharmaceutical practice. He has been involved in more than 75 patent litigations during his career. Allan Kassenoff brings more than 20 years of experience to his practice focused on patent litigation, with a particular emphasis on Hatch-Waxman disputes.

Irell & Manella is a California-based firm with a top national ranking for general patent litigation. Most notably, the firm is a significant player in patent disputes related to biologics, with an expanding book of clients in the area. A peer praises Irell's litigation team over its competitors, saying they have a "deeper understanding of the law, dig into the facts more and are better strategic thinkers." Another peer says there is "an overabundance of talent at this law firm."

Morgan Chu is one of the most celebrated patent litigators in the country, and remains a leader in the firm's practice. He currently serves as chair of the litigation group. Jason Sheasby represents the firm's incoming generation of litigation talent and has quickly developed a name in the legal market for his work in patent disputes.

Jones Day's IP group is highly ranked for general patent litigation with additional marks for Hatch-Waxman disputes and patent prosecution. The firm is notable for its broad geographic footprint, including major life sciences hubs New York and San Diego.

Global IP co-chair Anthony Insogna focuses his practice on a mix of patent litigation and portfolio management. His past representations include Celgene, AbbVie, and Merck entity Idenix, the last of which involved the largest damages award ever in a patent infringement case. Litigator Calvin Griffith has handled patent suits spanning numerous technology areas, including life sciences cases for Merck, Johnson & Johnson and AbbVie. Greg Castanias is revered as one of the country's top appellate practitioners for his experience handling matters at the Federal Circuit.

Patent prosecution co-head Adriane Antler is one of the firm's leading strategists for IP portfolios. She has expertise in matters related to biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and bioinformatics. Notable representations include Biogen, Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Acorda therapeutics. In 2019, she was shortlisted for the New York Patent Strategy & Management Attorney of the Year award by LMG Life Sciences.

Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton is highly ranked for its capabilities in patent prosecution, most notably in the medical device space. The firm also offers expertise in general patent litigation.

Tina McKeon has a strong reputation among life sciences IP strategists for her work advising companies in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors. She specializes in prosecution, portfolio management and post-grant proceedings, bolstered by a PhD in neuroscience. "If we have a conflict she's the first person I name who I think would do a good job for my client," a peer says. "Tina is a top notch lawyer," another peer says, adding "[she] understands clients' business and provides practical advice."

Silicon Valley partner Nena Bains contributes to the firm's deep expertise in medical device technology, supported by her in-house background as vice president of IP for Boston Scientific. Her practice focuses on patent portfolio development and transaction-related strategy. Darin Gibby has a multidisciplinary practice, focused on general patent litigation, post-grant proceedings, opinions and prosecution. He is often active for medical device clients.

Kirkland & Ellis is top-tier in general patent litigation with an experienced bench of attorneys acting for major life sciences companies. The firm is well known for representing branded companies in Hatch-Waxman disputes, with some activity on the generic side as well. A peer calls Kirkland the firm of choice "if I had a bet-the-company case." Another peers calls Kirkland's patent litigation group "clearly the real deal."

Contributing to the firm's successful track record is Leora Ben-Ami, a nationally renowned patent trial lawyer with deep experience representing branded clients in pharmaceutical disputes. She recently acted for Boehringer Ingelheim in ANDA litigations against multiple generic challengers.

Patricia Carson is an asset to the firm's patent litigation group with a practice almost entirely focused on life sciences companies. James F Hurst, considered a "great trial lawyer" by a peer, has a strong reputation in the life sciences space for his extensive experience acting as advocate for pharmaceutical clients. Notable representations include Abbott, Pfizer and Bristol-Myers Squibb. Thomas Fleming has extensive trial experience for clients in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors.

IP firm Knobbe Martens earns national ranking across all areas in IP, including top-tier status in generic Hatch-Waxman litigation, patent prosecution and strategy. "Knobbe has done everything right for our firm," a client says. "This is a remarkable firm [with] spectacular work and people."

Co-chair of the Hatch-Waxman and life sciences groups William Zimmerman is deemed by a client as "great to work with" and a "very knowledgeable and wise counsel." A peer calls him a "scholar and a gentleman." Zimmerman contributes to the firm's leading status as a destination for generic Hatch-Waxman representation. He recently acted for Illumina in an IPR brought by Natera which challenged the validity of a patent covering prenatal testing. In 2019, the PTAB rejected all challenges brought against the client's claims. Zimmerman was shortlisted by LMG Life Sciences for the Generic Hatch-Waxman Litigator of the Year award.

Trial lawyer Joseph Re is currently representing Personal Genome Diagnostics in a pioneering litigation against Guardant Health related to cancer testing patents. Re has more than three decades of experience in law and has handled matters across technology areas, most notably in the medical device industry. Medical device litigation co-chair Christy Lea is experienced in jury trials, appeals and post-grant proceedings. She recently acted for Smith & Nephew in multiple IPRs related to knee replacement technology, many of which were decided in favor of the client. Fellow co-chair John Sganga was involved in the high-profile, global litigation for Edwards Lifesciences against Boston Scientific. The matter, which involved aortic valve replacement technology, settled in early 2019, ending all pending litigation.

Gerard von Hoffmann is a go-to patent strategist for clients in the medical device industry. He recently assisted Millipede Inc in its $450 million acquisition by Boston Scientific. Salima Merani is simply "amazing" to a peer, bringing to her practice an equal amount of scientific expertise and business savvy. She recently advised med tech client Cala Health in its $50 million Series C financing. In 2018, Merani was awarded California Patent Strategy & Management Attorney of the Year by LMG Life Sciences, and was shortlisted in the same category this year.

Biotechnology group chair Michael Fuller specializes in strategic patent counseling and portfolio management. He was recently involved in the above matter for Illumina against Natera. Partner and strategist Joseph Reisman is deemed an "exceptional patent lawyer" and "top of the profession" by a client.

Latham & Watkins's IP group is highly recommended in general patent litigation, offering a strong bench of life sciences-oriented litigators versed across technology areas, including biologics. The firm is also recommended for its Hatch-Waxman practice focused on generic drug makers.

IP litigation co-chair Michael Morin receives acclaim from numerous peers in the space, supported by his continued work in high-profile matters related to biologics. He and partner David Frazier recently acted for client AbbVie in lawsuits related to various products in its portfolio, including the company's top-selling drug Humira. Morin was shortlisted in 2019 for the DC General Patent Litigator of the Year award by LMG Life Sciences.

Respected litigator Maximilian Grant continues to represent InfoBionic in two cases brought by competitor CardioNet. In parallel IPRs, the team was successful in invalidating two of the patents asserted by CardioNet. David Callahan was recently involved in a 13-year dispute representing Zimmer Biomet, which eliminated a multibillion-dollar damages claim and awarded the client $14 million in attorneys' fees.

Kenneth Schuler and Daniel Brown are two of the firm's experienced litigators in Hatch-Waxman matters. Brown recently represented Par Pharmaceutical against Novartis challenging patents covering the opponent's cancer drug. The Federal Circuit ultimately reversed a lower court decision in favor of Par, invalidating a Novartis patent. The firm recently hired experienced patent litigator Adam Perlman, who is currently listed is an LMG Life Sciences Star.

Chicago-based IP firm Leydig Voit & Mayer receives national rankings for its expertise in life sciences patent prosecution and strategy. In addition to the firm's non-contentious practice, it is also notable for pharmaceutical and biotech litigation.

John Kilyk and Bruce Gagala are well-versed in both patent litigation and strategic counseling for clients almost exclusively in the life sciences industry. Both were involved in a recent biosimilars dispute for client Samsung Bioepis against Janssen. The suit was eventually dropped, and the client moved to market a biosimilar version of Janssen's Remicade product.

Salim Hasan continues to advise corporations, research institutions and universities in life sciences patent matters. He brings more than 25 years of experience to his practice. Steven Sklar was recently active in multiple Hatch-Waxman disputes for clients seeking to market generic pharmaceutical products.

Chicago-based boutique Marshall Gerstein & Borun is highly recommended in patent prosecution and strategy for life sciences companies, supported by a deep bench of technically trained attorneys providing IP advice. "The law firm performs excellent work, both in terms of service and quality," a client says. "They have a top-level knowledge of patent law. I would recommend them to anyone seeking life science counsel." The firm's profile also continues to rise in patent litigation for its activity in biotech and biopharma disputes.

Patent prosecution chair Heather Kissling focuses her practice on advising clients in the biotechnology space. She specializes in patent acquisition and strategy, with additional contentious expertise in interference proceedings. IP transactions chair Pamela Cox recently assisted a research hospital in a licensing agreement with a biotechnology company. In 2018, Cox was awarded Midwest Patent Strategy & Management Attorney of the Year by LMG Life Sciences, and was shortlisted in the same category this year. Managing partner Jeffrey Sharp has more than 30 years of experience in patent law with a focus on the biotechnology and chemistry sectors.

In litigation, Sandip Patel was involved in the much-watched CRISPR dispute Regents of the University of California v Broad Institute, representing scientist Dr Emmanuelle Charpentier and CRISPR Therapeutics. The matter continues after an interference was declared by the Patent Office in 2019.

Head of biotech and pharma litigation Kevin Flowers has significant experience in life sciences patent disputes, including past representations for Amgen, Eli Lilly and Illumina. Medical device chair Julianne Hartzell and partner John Labbé also stand out in the firm's litigation department.

Mayer Brown is recommended nationally for general patent litigation and Hatch-Waxman disputes for branded drug makers. In addition to the firm's contentious practice, the firm is also notable for its work in patent strategy, exemplified by its role as IP counsel for Bristol-Myers Squibb in its $74 billion acquisition of Celgene. The merger is the largest ever in the pharmaceutical industry.

Lisa Ferri, who co-chairs the firm's IP practice group, is described by a peer as someone who is "excellent" and "always impresses." Ferri is well known for her expertise as a patent litigator, but recently showcased her ability as strategic advisor through her role as lead IP attorney on the Bristol-Myers Squibb merger. She also acted for Sanofi in a patent dispute against Genentech and the Washington Research Foundation related to the client's cancer drug Elitek. Ferri was shortlisted for the New York Patent Strategy & Management Attorney of the Year award by LMG Life Sciences.

Joseph Mahoney is co-chair of the life sciences group, contributing to the firm's strength in Hatch-Waxman and Patent Office disputes. His life sciences expertise is bolstered by a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Mahoney was recently active for a pharmaceutical client in patent strategy, licensing and litigation.

Patent attorney Vera Nackovic specializes in strategic counseling for clients in the pharmaceutical, biologics and medical device areas, among others. She was recently active for a major pharmaceutical client in a licensing dispute. New York-based Brian Nolan is well versed in patent litigation, counseling and due diligence. He was also involved in the $74 billion merger for Bristol-Myers Squibb.

McDermott Will & Emery is nationally ranked for its practice focused on patent strategy and management. The firm is also notable for its activity in life sciences patent litigation.

Silicon Valley-based partner Judy Mohr acts as advisor to clients in the pharmaceutical, medical device and diagnostics industries. Her specialities include patent prosecution, IP due diligences and portfolio management. Mohr recently assisted an imaging diagnostics client in patent matters.

In the litigation group, Sarah Chapin Columbia is viewed as one of the country's leading trial lawyers for IP disputes. She was named by LMG Life Sciences as the New England General Patent Litigator of the Year in 2019. William Gaede is another standout in the firm's IP department with a national reputation. He and Columbia recently acted in the noteworthy antibody dispute Amgen v Sanofi, which involves the oft-discussed issue of written description. Gaede was shortlisted for the California General Patent Litigator of the Year award.

IP boutique McNeill Baur is a firm entirely focused on life sciences, and is ranked nationally for its expertise in patent prosecution. The practitioners are well-versed in the biotechnology area, and have big law experience from a major IP firm. A peer says the firm delivers an "excellent work product" with "great billing rates." Another peer simply says: "Everyone there is fantastic."

Founding partners Rebecca McNeill and Amelia Feulner Baur specialize in a number of legal services, including prosecution, IP strategy, and post-grant proceedings. A competitor says about Baur: "She really impressed me as being really knowledgeable on prosecution strategy issues. I know a lot of clients that use them and they're very happy with their work." Both founding partners continue to be active in patent prosecution and strategic counseling for several major life sciences clients.

Mary Henninger brings her previous experience as a litigator to her current practice focused on patent prosecution and strategy. She recently assisted a life sciences client in a licensing agreement.

International firm Morgan Lewis & Bockius provides a full-service IP practice in life sciences, earning national rankings in general patent litigation, patent prosecution and strategy. The firm has been one to watch for its significant streak of lateral hires over the past two years, bolstering the firm's capabilities in the contentious and non-contentious patent arenas.

Michael Abernathy currently serves as co-head of the firm's IP litigation and life sciences IP groups. He is well-versed in patent litigation, having served as first-chair in numerous Hatch-Waxman disputes and jury trials. Abernathy recently acted for Praxair in an 11-patent infringement case against Mallinckrodt, INO Therapeutics and Ikaria in the District Court of Delaware. The Court invalidated six of the patents and found the other five not infringed. The matter is currently on appeal. Global IP head Eric Kraeutler has more than four decades of experience in law, and focuses his practice on patent litigation.

In prosecution and strategy, Jeffry Mann is one of the firm's leading practitioners for life sciences patent advice. He specializes in patent preparation and prosecution, IP portfolio monetization, due diligence and licensing. He recently represented cell therapy company Medisix Therapeutics in a $20 million Series A funding led by Lightstone Ventures to be used for product development and pre-clinical studies. For his recent work, Mann was shortlisted by LMG Life Sciences for the California Patent Strategy & Management Attorney of the Year award in 2019. Boston-based Steven Frank focuses his practice on IP transactions, patent prosecution and strategic counseling.

New to the stars list is Stephen Altieri, who is versed in patent portfolio development for emerging clients in a number of areas, including biologics, diagnostics and immunotherapies. He recently advised a late-stage biologics client in IP due diligence.

Morrison & Foerster offers a full suite of patent services for life sciences companies, most notably in the area of patent strategy and Hatch-Waxman litigation. The firm is also active in general patent litigation, specifically in the area of biologics.

Catherine Polizzi is a renowned patent strategist with a deep concentration on counseling companies in the life sciences area. In addition to building patent portfolios for sophisticated clients, she is also active in due diligences and other transaction-related matters.

Michael Ward serves as global head of the firm's life sciences industry group, and also leads the patent practice group. He focuses on portfolio management and strategic drafting of patent applications for life sciences companies. San Diego partner James Mullen specializes in patent prosecution, due diligence, and post-grant-proceedings. He is the founder and leader of the firm's antibody patent group.

In the litigation department, Michael Jacobs is a leading first-chair trial lawyer with significant experience in life sciences patent disputes. He currently co-chairs the IP practice group. Deanne Maynard is a noteworthy appellate practitioner who continues to excel in the life sciences sector. "She is an extremely talented appellate lawyer," a peer says. Maynard recently acted for Sandoz in a multiple cases, including the newsworthy pharmaceutical battle against Teva involving Copaxone, and the biosimilar dispute against Amgen. For her work in this area, Maynard was awarded IP Appellate Litigator of the Year by LMG Life Sciences.

O'Melveny & Myers is a new entrant to the IP rankings this year for its team focused on Hatch-Waxman litigation for branded drug companies. The firm acts for a number of major companies, including AstraZeneca, Amgen subsidiary Onyx Therapeutics and ViiV Healthcare. A peer calls the group a "terrific firm," while another notes O'Melveny's "very strategic and talented team."

New York-based Lisa Pensabene is the firm's life sciences litigation practice head, who brings significant expertise in pharmaceutical patent disputes. She recently acted for AstraZeneca in suits brought against several generic companies seeking to market versions of the client's Faslodex product. The last remaining case concluded in late 2018. For her continued work in this area, Pensabene was shortlisted for the Branded Hatch-Waxman Litigator of Year award by LMG Life Sciences.

John Kappos is another noteworthy litigator at the firm, bringing two decades of experience in law. He is currently acting for Agilent Technologies in a trade secrets suit brought against a competitor.

Paul Hastings's IP group is highly recommended for general patent litigation and Hatch-Waxman disputes, supported by a team of attorneys with significant trial experience. A peer calls the firm a "go-to place for Hatch-Waxman work." In addition to the group's expertise in district court matters, the firm is also active in post-grant proceedings. The firm's activity in the biosimilars space was showcased by the high-profile dispute for client Boehringer Ingelheim against AbbVie involving the blockbuster Humira. The matter is currently on appeal.

Global co-chair of the IP group Bruce Wexler is praised by peers for his experience in life sciences patent litigation. He is currently active for clients Adamas and Actelion in separate pharmaceutical disputes. Wexler was shortlisted by LMG Life Sciences in 2019 for the Branded Hatch-Waxman Litigator of the Year award.

Joseph O'Malley was recently involved in the Federal Circuit appeal of an IPR for client Zimmer Biomet related to a hip implant patent. The appellate court affirmed the PTAB ruling in favor of the client. O'Malley is also acting for Helsinn Healthcare with partner and IP vice chair Eric Dittmann in a high-profile dispute against Teva. The matter, which earlier went before the Supreme Court, is now pending in the Federal Circuit. New York litigation chair Preston Ratliff is experienced in litigations related to pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and chemicals. He is currently active for Sucampo in a dispute related to its product Amitiza.

DC-based Naveen Modi is vice chair of the IP group and leader of the firm's Patent Office practice. He continues to be active as one of the top practitioners for post-grant proceedings. A team including Modi, Eric Dittmann and Bruce Wexler were involved in the Boehringer Ingelheim dispute against AbbVie.

Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison is highly ranked for its strength in general patent litigation, notably in biosimilars disputes and post-grant proceedings. "Their trial attorneys have a deep understanding of the technology at issue and are quick on their feet," a peer says. Paul Weiss has one of the pioneering practices in biosimilars litigation, a continuing area of focus for the firm.

The firm's position as a leading practice in the large molecule space is in part due to litigator Nicholas Groombridge, an IP trial lawyer with more than 25 years of experience. One peer says Groombridge is "doing a bang-up job in biologics," while another offers, "He's a good lawyer, not only on his feet, but also a good writer as well." He also has deep experience in patent disputes related to pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Groombridge was shortlisted as the New York General Patent Litigator of the Year in 2019 for his involvement in the noteworthy patent case Vanda v West-Ward Pharmaceuticals.

DC-based partner Steven Baughman is a leading practitioner for post-grant proceedings. His past representations include IPRs for Nevro Corporation and Chugai Pharmaceutical.

Eric Stone is another standout in the firm's roster of stars for his significant work in patent litigations involving large and small molecule products. "I think Eric is quite extraordinary," a peer says, adding he is "one of the best advocates I have seen in court." Another peer says: "Eric is one of the finest attorneys that I have come across. His knowledge of biotechnology allows him to run circles around the competition."

West Coast-based firm Perkins Coie is nationally ranked for its practices focused on generic Hatch-Waxman litigation and patent prosecution. The firm represents a diverse mix of clients in the life sciences sector, including companies in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device areas. For the firm's continued activity in significant life sciences IP cases, Perkins Coie was shortlisted for the Intellectual Property Firm of the Year award by LMG Life Sciences in 2019.

"Our view is the specific attorney makes all of the difference, and Michael Wise at Perkins Coie has consistently created value for our firm through his work," a client says about the firm's life sciences industry group chair. Wise specializes in patent prosecution, portfolio development and litigation in the life sciences sector. He continues to serve as patent advisor to a number of pharmaceutical and biotechnology clients, including eGenesis Bio with its genome editing portfolio.

Seattle-based Paul Parker is chair of the firm's medical device industry group. He receives repeated praise from peers in the space for his work counseling companies on their med tech portfolios. A recent patent prosecution client notes the team "clearly demonstrated a superior level of analytics and recommended course of actions."

Shannon Bloodworth co-chairs the firm's IP practice group, and is one of the country's leading litigators for Hatch-Waxman disputes. "I find her to be really impressive," a peer says. Bloodworth, along with partners David Anstaett and Brandon White, represented Mylan against Teva in the newsworthy patent case involving Copaxone. Bloodworth was recognized by LMG Life Sciences as 2019 Generic Hatch-Waxman Litigator of the Year, while Anstaett was awarded General Patent Litigator of the Year in the Midwest.

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.

"Rakoczy Molino Mazzochi Siwik is the firm we go to for complex and challenging legal issues," a pharmaceutical client says about the patent litigation-focused IP boutique. "They provide comprehensive, well-thought-out and strategic advice on the most complex and challenging legal issues in the pharmaceutical industry." The firm, based in Chicago, receives top-tier ranking as a practice for Hatch-Waxman litigation.

The firm is best known for representing generic pharmaceutical clients, but is also becoming active in the biosimilar litigation arena. Another client says the firm "never loses sight of their end goal, which is to protect, defend and have the best outcome for their client. I'd highly recommend their services to others."

William Rakoczy is recognized as a leading patent litigator in the life sciences industry, receiving acclaim from clients and peers for his strength as a courtroom advocate. "Bill understands the industry better than anyone," a client says. "He thinks creatively and offers thoughtful, strategic advice. He is an invaluable asset to have as an outside counsel." A peer simply calls him "one of the best." Mr Rakoczy was recently active for Sandoz in the closely watched Hatch-Waxman dispute against Teva, which involved the blockbuster product Copaxone. The matter concluded favorably for Sandoz and a number of other generic challengers.

Paul Molino is managing partner of the firm and another one of the group's experienced litigators. He recently represented Alcon Laboratories in a patent infringement dispute involving retinal surgery.

For the firm's significant activity in a variety of life sciences IP cases, Rakoczy Molino Mazzochi Siwik was shortlisted for the IP Boutique Firm of the Year by LMG Life Sciences in 2019.

Minneapolis-based Robins Kaplan is nationally recommended for its IP group focused on generic Hatch-Waxman litigation. A recent client says the IP team is "thoughtful and methodical in its work on our behalf in a number of high-stakes litigation matters," and "repeatedly demonstrates that our interests are 'top of mind' for them."

Health and life sciences industry group chair Jake Holdreith is focused on pharmaceutical patent litigation for the firm's generic clientele. He was recently involved in numerous matters, including a patent dispute for client Amneal brought by Amgen. A federal judge recently found Amneal did not infringe an asserted patent covering the product Sensipar.

Ronald Schutz is a notable litigator at the firm, and currently serves as chair of the executive board. He recently acted for Puget Bioventures in multiple patent infringement suits involving knee replacement technology. One of the cases against Biomet was resolved last year.

Based in DC, Rothwell Figg Ernst & Manbeck is an IP firm recommended nationally for its practice dedicated to Hatch-Waxman litigation. The firm is known for its representation of generic pharmaceutical clients, and in addition to this area is active in post-grant proceedings and patent prosecution. The firm has recently been involved in biologics matters.

Founding partner E Anthony Figg is one of the preeminent Hatch-Waxman specialists in the market, supported by a long career of representations in pharmaceutical patent disputes. He recently acted for Pfizer and Synthon in the high-profile Federal Circuit dispute against Teva involving the drug maker's blockbuster Copaxone product. Figg was shortlisted for the 2019 Generic Hatch-Waxman Litigator of the Year award and is a member of the LMG Life Sciences Hall of Fame.

Steven Lieberman was active in multiple post-grant proceedings for Dentsply Sirona against Edge Endo. The PTAB denied institution of the four petitions brought by the opponent.

R Danny Huntington specializes in patent prosecution, licensing and litigation, with particular expertise in patent interferences. He recently acted for Broad Institute licensee Editas Medicine in the high-profile CRISPR dispute. The Federal Circuit ruled in favor of Broad and its parties in late 2018. Joseph Hynds is active alongside Anthony Figg in multiple IPRs for client Coherus Biosciences, an entity focused on the development of biosimilar drugs.

Sidley Austin's IP group has top-tier status in general patent litigation and Hatch-Waxman disputes for branded drug makers. In addition to the firm's expertise in small molecule pharmaceutical matters, the litigation team is also active in the biosimilars space. A competitor who encounters the firm in pitches says, "If I'm doing a beauty contest I know they will be doing stuff I find impressive."

IP litigation head David Pritikin is deeply experienced in life sciences cases involving pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and more recently, biologics. He and experienced litigation partner Vernon Winters are currently active for Amgen in one of the earliest BPCIA disputes against Sandoz, involving the client's biologic product Enbrel. A District of New Jersey judge recently ruled in favor of client Amgen. Pritikin was shortlisted by LMG Life Sciences for the Midwest Patent Litigator of the Year award in 2019, and the firm was similarly shortlisted for General Patent Litigation Firm of the Year.

A team of New York-based partners including Jim Badke, Ching-Lee Fukuda and LMG Life Sciences newcomer Sona De were involved in a significant innovator-versus-innovator biologics dispute for client Bayer. The case, which involved Shire entity Baxalta on the other side, ended in favor of the client with a patent infringement verdict of $155 million. This matter was recognized as one the Patent Impact Cases of the Year in 2019. For his involvement in the matter, Badke was shortlisted for the New York General Patent Litigator of the Year award.

DC-based firm Sterne Kessler Goldstein & Fox earns top rankings across multiple practice areas in IP, including Hatch-Waxman litigation, patent prosecution and strategy. The firm is also well known as a destination shop for post-grant proceedings, an area of high activity for the group over the past year. "When I need an expert in PTAB appeals, I go to Sterne Kessler," a peer says. "That's my go to when I need an expert beside me to question how I'm viewing a rule."

Eldora Ellison is renowned for her expertise in patent strategy and post-grant proceedings. "I have loved working with her, and I think she is a fabulous PTAB attorney," a peer from a recent case says. "Eldora is very insightful, strategic, and a pleasure to work with," another peer says. Ellison is currently involved in the newsworthy CRISPR battle between the University of California and Broad Institute, which continues with the recent initiation of a patent interference by the Patent Office. For her work in this area, Ellison was awarded Post-Grant Proceedings Attorney of the Year by LMG Life Sciences.

Patent prosecution group chair Eric Steffe is deemed a "talented, excellent attorney" by a peer. He specializes in patent prosecution, portfolio development and post-grant proceedings. Steffe is also on the team representing University of California in CRISPR-related matters.

In litigation, John Christopher "JC" Rozendaal is co-chair of the firm's trial and appellate practice group. He recently acted for Teva in a notable case against Allergan dealing with tribal immunity. The case was decided in favor of client Teva at the Federal Circuit last year, and more recently the Supreme Court denied petition for writ of certiorari by Allergan. Dennies Varguhese is well-versed in Hatch-Waxman disputes for clients in the generic pharmaceutical space. He recently acted for Wockhardt in a matter against Janssen involving its branded product Zytiga.

The 2018 merger of Venable and IP firm Fitzpatrick Cella Harper & Scinto resulted in a full-service group in the life sciences patent arena. The firm receives top-tier status in branded Hatch-Waxman litigation and patent prosecution, with additional rankings in general patent litigation and strategy. A peer calls the firm "a force to be reckoned with in Hatch-Waxman."

IP group co-chair Dominick Conde is a leader in the firm's Hatch-Waxman litigation practice with more than 25 years of experience in law. He is currently active for clients Astellas and Pfizer in a pharmaceutical dispute involving branded prostate cancer drug Xtandi. Scott Reed is co-chair of the firm's IP litigation practice group, specializing in pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device disputes. He and partner Ha Kung Wong recently represented Alnylam Pharmaceuticals against Silence Therapeutics in a matter involving PTAB and district court proceedings.

John Murnane's career in patent litigation spans more than 30 years, during which time he has accumulated expertise in district court, ITC, Federal Circuit and post-grant matters. William Solander is currently active for Genzyme and the University of Michigan in a consolidated case against Apotex and five other defendants.

For non-contentious work, Alicia Russo is one of the firm's expert patent strategists, advising clients in the biologics and pharmaceutical sectors. She recently assisted client Gilead in a strategic collaboration with Tango Therapeutics to develop cancer therapies. Russo currently serves as co-chair of the firm's IP transactions group.

New to the stars list is Christina Schwarz, who recently acted in the significant pharmaceutical case Novartis v Breckenridge. The matter resulted in the Federal Circuit issuing a decision on obviousness-type double patenting. The case was recognized as one of the Hatch-Waxman Impact Cases of the Year by LMG Life Sciences.

Weil Gotshal & Manges is nationally ranked for its expertise in general patent litigation. The firm's IP litigation team is active in several technology areas, including pharmaceuticals, biologics, diagnostics and the burgeoning genetic testing space. "I have been opposite this firm on a number of occasions and find that they do very good work," a peer says.

Renowned IP lawyer Edward Reines is co-head of the firm's patent litigation practice and life sciences industry group. He has significant first-chair experience in patent disputes, and is particularly known for his effectiveness in appeals. "He is extraordinary," a peer says. "The guy is like a walking encyclopedia on patent law, and I think he's quite effective." Another peer says: "He handles a lot of high-quality patent cases, and that's why I like having him as an adversary." Reines recently acted for Bio-Rad Laboratories and the University of Chicago in a litigation brought against 10X Genomics. The case resulted in a $24 million patent infringement verdict for the client.

Patent litigation and life sciences group co-head Elizabeth Weiswasser is also acclaimed for her work in this area. She has significant experience in pharmaceutical, medical device and biologics patent disputes. "I think Liz Weiswasser is very good," a peer says. "I've been very impressed with the quality." She is currently active for Lantus in parallel district court and PTAB proceedings related to the client's Solostar insulin biologic product.

Both Weiswasser and Reines were shortlisted for General Patent Litigator of Year awards in New York and California, respectively.

DC litigation boutique Williams & Connolly is highly ranked across litigation areas, including general patent litigation and Hatch-Waxman disputes. A peer calls the firm "absolutely tier-one" in patent litigation. "I think they have one of the best practices in this area." Another peer says, "Williams & Connolly is a preeminent general patent litigation firm." The firm frequently represents branded pharmaceutical makers and is one of the leading practices for biologics disputes.

Patent litigation practice founder Bruce Genderson is "really superb" according to a peer, and is one of the firm's acclaimed trial lawyers focused on Hatch-Waxman disputes. He recently acted for Bayer in a significant matter involving anticoagulant drug Xarelto. The case concluded when a District of Delaware judge upheld the validity of the client's patent, rejecting the generic opponents' claims. Genderson was awarded Branded Hatch-Waxman Litigator of the Year by LMG Life Sciences in 2019, and the firm was similarly awarded Firm of the Year in this area.

In the large molecule space, partner David Berl is a go-to litigator for biologics cases. He currently represents AstraZeneca against Bristol-Myers Squibb in a dispute related to immunotherapy drug Imfinzi. "David Berl deserves the accolades he gets," a peer says. "He's one of the best lawyers I've seen working in this space." Another peer describes Berl as a "fierce adversary" and someone who "operates at a high level." Paul Gaffney is acting for Genentech in a biosimilar challenge against Amgen, Boehringer Ingelheim and Hospira. The disputes, which involve IPRs and district court proceedings, are currently pending.

WilmerHale's life sciences IP group is highly recommended for general patent litigation and Hatch-Waxman disputes for branded drug makers. The firm is also notable for its expertise in patent prosecution and post-grant proceedings. "I have worked with and against this firm and find their work to be top-notch," a peer says about the litigation practice. For the firm's continued activity in high-profile life sciences cases, WilmerHale was awarded 2019 General Patent Litigation Firm of the Year by LMG Life Sciences.

William Lee is one of the most celebrated patent litigators in the country, offering more than four decades of experience in law. He is currently active for client Ancestry.com in a dispute against 23andMe involving genetic testing patents. IP litigation group co-chair Lisa Pirozzolo is an experienced first-chair trial lawyer who is representing several notable life sciences clients, including CSL Behring in a dispute against Biogen related to hemophilia treatment. "She is deeply respected by her clients," a peer says. "In terms of a strategic thinker, she's very good." Pirozzolo was shortlisted for the New England Patent Litigator of the Year award by LMG Life Sciences, a category she won for the previous two years.

New York partner Robert Gunther is involved in a variety of life sciences patent disputes, most recently in cases involving biologics and diagnostics. In one recent matter, he represented Roche Molecular Systems and Becton Dickinson in a dispute against Enzo Life Sciences involving district court and PTAB proceedings. Gunther was shortlisted for the New York Patent Litigator of the Year award in 2019.

DC-based partner Amy Wigmore recently represented AbbVie in a newsworthy biosimilar case against Boerhinger Ingelheim, which involved entry of the opponent's version of blockbuster drug Humira. Emily Whelan contributes to the firm's leading status as a firm for PTAB matters, specializing in post-grant proceedings for clients in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors. She recently acted for Merck and Allergan in IPRs involving antidepressant Viibryd. Patent attorney Colleen Superko specializes in portfolio development, strategic counseling and licensing, among other areas.

Bay Area staple Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati is highly recommended in generic Hatch-Waxman litigation and patent strategy. The firm is also notable for its expertise in patent prosecution. Speaking to the group's strength in strategic counseling, a peer says: "Their patent management and ability to bring a small client up and make them successful and get sold is a big part of their business. They do a good job with that." In the litigation sphere, a recent opponent in a pharmaceutical dispute says, "We thought they were worthy adversaries."

Vern Norviel is a preeminent patent strategist for clients in the life sciences industry and leader of the firm's patents and innovations counseling practice group. He specializes in patent prosecution, strategy and portfolio development. Norviel recently assisted client 10x Genomics in patent matters related to its $50 million Series D financing.

James Heslin is an expert in the medical device field, drawing on more than 20 years of experience as a patent counselor. San Diego partner Jeffrey Guise specializes in patent protection, litigation strategy and transactions.

In litigation, Douglas Carsten is a go-to professional for pharmaceutical disputes involving the firm's generic clientele. He recently acted for United Therapeutics and Supernus Pharma against USPTO Director Iancu in a Federal Circuit appeal. The matter resulted in an added 1.5-year patent term regarding the client's hypertension drug.

Debuting as an LMG Life Sciences star this year is Michael Hostetler, who specializes in strategic counseling and technology transactions. He recently acted for United Therapeutics in a licensing agreement related to a hypertension drug in development. A peer says of Hostetler: "He's very strategic, and I think he's a great guy.

Winston & Strawn's IP group is highly recommended in general patent and Hatch-Waxman litigation. The firm is most notable for being one of the most active generic practices in the Hatch-Waxman domain, and for its recent involvement acting for biosimilars clients in BPCIA disputes.

Litigation group co-chair George Lombardi is considered one of the foremost trial lawyers in the ANDA litigation area, a reputation bolstered by a significant year of patent work in the life sciences area. He currently represents Sandoz against Amgen entity Immunex in a biosimilars litigation related to marketed drug Enbrel. "I'd say the best of generic lawyers has got to be George Lombardi," a peer says. "He's been a frequent opponent over the years."

IP co-chair Charles Klein is another standout litigator in the firm's life sciences group, offering significant experience in Hatch-Waxman and biosimilars suits. About partner Maureen Rurka, a competitor says: "without a doubt I would [refer] something to Maureen and the group over at Winston." Another peer adds Rurka is a "highly competent, intuitive pharma patent litigator."

First-chair trial lawyer Michael Nutter focuses his practice full-time on life sciences matters. He acts as litigation counsel for the firm's many high-level generic clients, and is also involved in the growing area of BPCIA suits. Stephen Smerek has more than 20 years of practice in litigation, including significant Hatch-Waxman experience.

An up-and-comer in this space is Nimalka Wickramasekera, who was shortlisted by LMG Life Sciences for the Intellectual Property Rising Star award in 2019.

Boston-based IP boutique Wolf Greenfield & Sacks earns top ranking for its expertise in patent prosecution and strategy for life sciences clients. A client notes the firm is "excellent" and "very responsive," while a peer adds Wolf Greenfield is a "reliable heavyweight in patent prosecution." The firm is notable for its significant number of attorneys with advanced scientific degrees, showcased by its biotech group, which is made up of more than 80% PhD or MD holders.

Biotechnology group chair Helen Lockhart specializes in patent prosecution and portfolio development for a variety of clients, including universities and research institutions, startups and midsize companies. She is currently advising a biotech startup in patent portfolio strategy. Edward Gates, deemed a "brilliant attorney" by a peer, has extensive experience counseling clients in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology areas on licensing and patent matters. He is currently involved in contentious IPR matters for a client.

Maryanne Trevisan provides clients with deep prosecution expertise in a number of advanced scientific areas, including cell biology and cancer therapies. Firm managing partner Tim Oyer and biotech partner Patrick RH Waller currently advise Oxford Nanopore in patent portfolio strategy.

New to the stars list is Hunter Baker, chair of the pharmaceuticals practice group. He specializes in patent prosecution, strategic counseling and technology transactions. He was recently active for a number of academic clients in life sciences technology licensing.