Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox - Washington, DC

A Powerhouse in Intellectual Property Law

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox PLLC is one of the most highly regarded intellectual property law firms in the world, headquartered in the heart of Washington, D.C. Founded in 1978, the firm has spent over four decades exclusively focused on the protection, transfer, and enforcement of IP rights. With a team of over 130 attorneys and patent agents-many of whom hold Ph.D.s in science and engineering-Sterne Kessler bridges the gap between complex technology and the law. The firm recently relocated to a state-of-the-art office on K Street NW, designed to foster collaboration and innovation. They are renowned for their work in Patent Litigation, particularly before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB), where they have handled more cases than almost any other firm in the nation.

Leading the Way in Patent Litigation

Sterne Kessler is a dominant force in IP Litigation, representing clients in federal district courts, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC), and the Federal Circuit. However, their true distinction lies in their PTAB practice. Since the America Invents Act established new post-grant proceedings in 2012, Sterne Kessler has been a pioneer, shaping the case law and procedures that define this venue. They represent both patent owners and petitioners in Inter Partes Reviews (IPR) and Post-Grant Reviews (PGR), leveraging their deep technical knowledge to dismantle or defend complex patents in fields like electronics, biotechnology, and software.

• Biotech & Chemical: protecting innovations in immunotherapies, gene editing (CRISPR), and pharmaceuticals.
• Electronics & Software: Strategic counseling for 5G, AI, and semiconductor technologies.
• Trademark & Brand: comprehensive brand protection strategies, including anti-counterfeiting and domain name enforcement.
• Design Patents: A top-tier practice for protecting the ornamental design of consumer products.

Technical Expertise Meets Legal Excellence

What sets Sterne Kessler apart is the unparalleled technical depth of its professionals. The firm employs a vast number of attorneys with advanced degrees (Masters and Doctorates) in technical fields. This allows them to 'speak science' fluently, ensuring that no nuance of an invention is lost in translation. Whether dealing with a novel medical device or a quantum computing algorithm, the team drafts patents that are technically precise and legally defensible. This expertise extends to their IP Strategy practice, where they help companies build portfolios that drive valuation and secure market position.

Innovation in the Capital

The firm's new headquarters on K Street reflects its status as a leader in the legal industry. Occupying the top floors of a trophy building, the office features floor-to-ceiling glass, advanced technology, and amenities designed to support their high-performing team. Sterne Kessler's commitment to diversity and inclusion has also earned it recognition as a top workplace. For innovators seeking a firm that combines the firepower of a large litigator with the specialized focus of a boutique, Sterne Kessler Goldstein & Fox is the definitive choice in Washington, D.C.

We don't just understand the law; we understand the science behind your innovation. This dual expertise is our competitive advantage.

From startups to Fortune 500 giants, clients trust Sterne Kessler to protect their most critical assets. Their strategic location in D.C., just minutes from the courts and the USPTO, positions them perfectly to advocate for the future of technology.