Overview
February 7, 2025 – For the 15th consecutive year, international law firm McDermott Will & Emery has been ranked by World Trademark Review (WTR) 1000. The guide recognizes trademark practices that are providing world-class legal experience in this space. McDermott’s trademark team continues to be named in several categories as a leading firm.
In Illinois, the Firm maintained a Silver Band ranking for prosecution and strategy and a Bronze Band ranking for enforcement and litigation. WTR stated that McDermott boasts “a global footprint with attorneys who understand business” and is noted for “leveraging resources across borders to offer international expertise to its clients.” Ranked lawyers in Illinois include:
- Christina Martini, who received a Gold Band for prosecution and strategy and a Silver Band for enforcement and litigation. As stated in WTR, she is a “trusted all-rounder” and “has collected loyal clients who provide her with rave reviews.” One client said “Christina is a strategic player who has been excellent to work with. She is professional, courteous, and understanding of internal business needs and goals while being transparent with expectations on all our matters.”
- Jennifer Mikulina, who maintained a Gold Band for prosecution and strategy and obtained a Bronze Band for enforcement and litigation. WTR described Jennifer as “thorough in all her work,” and as a “reliable source of trademark counsel across various industries. She puts her clients first, providing ‘top-notch’ service and excellent protection strategies. As well as her impressive prosecution skill, she also comes up with savvy solutions to disputes.”
In Washington, DC, McDermott received a Bronze Band for enforcement and litigation. WTR noted that the Firm “serves up comprehensive global portfolio management and brand enforcement expertise. Keeping a business perspective at the heart of its operations, the ensemble seeks to understand business goals and clients’ marketplaces, providing effective counsel and a competitive edge.” Ranked lawyers in Washington, DC, include:
- Eleanor (Ellie) Atkins, who received a Bronze Band for prosecution and strategy. Her first time being ranked in WTR 1000, Ellie is sought by clients “for her top-quality counsel and unique skill set. She excels in trademark portfolio management and helps brands to maximize their assets through strategic licensing and management.”
- Robert Zelnick, who received a Silver Band for enforcement and litigation. He is described as “a versatile IP lawyer, renowned for his successes as lead counsel for major clients in federal trial and appellate courts.” WTR further noted that he expertly handles “third-party disputes before the [Trademark Trial & Appeal Board] and crafting comprehensive global enforcement strategies.”
In California, Sarah Bro maintained a Bronze Band ranking for prosecution and strategy. Sarah is a go-to attorney for complex intellectual property matters. She has proven herself as a leader in some of the more unique, cutting-edge industries within trademark law. Her practice focuses on trademark prosecution and enforcement. She assists clients with all stages of domestic and international trademark prosecution and provides consultation and strategy with respect to the selection, clearance, enforcement and licensing of trademarks.
The full 2025 WTR 1000 rankings are available here.
ABOUT WORLD TRADEMARK REVIEW
WTR is the world’s only independent daily news and information service dedicated exclusively to reporting on trademark issues for in-house and private practitioners internationally. WTR 1000 is the only standalone research directory that focuses on trademark practices and practitioners.
About McDermott
McDermott Will & Emery partners with leaders around the world to fuel missions, knock down barriers, and shape markets. Our team works seamlessly across practices and industries to deliver highly effective solutions that propel success. More than 1,400 lawyers strong, we bring our personal passion and legal prowess to bear in every matter for our clients and the people they serve.
