Profile
About Gohn Hankey & Berlage LLP
Gohn Hankey & Berlage LLP is a premier business and litigation law firm that serves as a leading resource for Intellectual Property (IP) law in Maryland. With offices in Annapolis, Baltimore, and Columbia, the firm provides sophisticated legal representation to individuals and businesses across the state and the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. Founded in 1997 by attorneys who departed large national law firms, Gohn Hankey & Berlage was established to offer the high-level expertise of a major firm combined with the agility and personalized attention of a boutique practice 🏛️. The firm is dedicated to helping clients navigate complex legal landscapes, from protecting creative assets to resolving high-stakes business disputes.
The firm’s Intellectual Property practice is particularly distinguished, led by partners with deep expertise in trademark, copyright, and trade secret law. They understand that in today’s digital economy, a company’s intellectual property is often its most valuable asset. The attorneys at Gohn Hankey & Berlage work proactively to secure these rights through registration and enforcement, while also defending clients against infringement claims. Beyond IP, the firm offers robust services in business litigation, bankruptcy, and employment law, making them a versatile partner for any commercial enterprise 🤝. Their office on Cathedral Street in Annapolis places them in the heart of Maryland’s capital, ready to serve the local business community with integrity and skill.
Practice Areas and Expertise
Gohn Hankey & Berlage LLP offers a comprehensive suite of legal services, with a strong focus on protecting business interests and creative works:
- Intellectual Property Litigation: Representing clients in disputes involving copyright infringement, trademark violations, and trade secret misappropriation. The firm has a track record of securing significant verdicts and settlements in federal and state courts ⚖️.
- Trademarks and Copyrights: Assisting businesses and artists in registering their marks and creative works with the USPTO and the U.S. Copyright Office, ensuring their brand identity and content are legally protected.
- Business and Commercial Litigation: Handling complex contract disputes, partnership breakups, and other commercial conflicts. The firm’s attorneys are seasoned trial lawyers who are always prepared to go to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
- Bankruptcy and Creditors’ Rights: Advising businesses and individuals on debt restructuring, Chapter 7 and Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings, and protecting creditor rights in insolvency proceedings 💸.
- Employment Law: Counseling employers on compliance with labor laws and representing both employers and employees in disputes regarding discrimination, non-compete agreements, and wrongful termination.
- Internet Law: Navigating the evolving legal issues related to e-commerce, domain name disputes, and online defamation.
Awards and Professional Recognition
The attorneys at Gohn Hankey & Berlage LLP are widely respected for their legal acumen and professional ethics. Their commitment to excellence is reflected in numerous accolades:
- Super Lawyers: Partners such as Jan I. Berlage have been consistently selected to the Maryland Super Lawyers list, a distinction awarded to the top 5% of attorneys in the state based on peer recognition and professional achievement 🌟.
- AV Preeminent Rating: The firm’s attorneys hold the highest possible rating from Martindale-Hubbell, indicating the highest level of professional excellence and ethical standards.
- Fellows of the American Bar Foundation: Recognition of their dedication to the advancement of justice and the legal profession.
- Significant Verdicts: The firm has secured multi-million dollar verdicts in copyright and commercial litigation cases, demonstrating their effectiveness in the courtroom.
Client-Centered Advocacy
At Gohn Hankey & Berlage LLP, the client’s goals are the top priority. The firm prides itself on being accessible and responsive, ensuring that clients are kept informed at every stage of the legal process. Whether you are an entrepreneur launching a new brand, a business facing a lawsuit, or a creative professional protecting your work, the firm offers the strategic guidance and aggressive advocacy you need. By combining ”big firm” capabilities with ”small firm” service, Gohn Hankey & Berlage LLP delivers results that matter.
Specializing In
Intellectual Property Litigation, Trademarks, Copyrights, Business Litigation, Bankruptcy, Internet Law
Address & Location
Located in the historic Downtown Annapolis district, close to government buildings, the court house, and State Circle.
Building Location
Housed in a well-positioned, 3-story brick professional office building built in 1975. The property is situated adjacent to the Larkin Lot and is within walking distance of local spots like the Banneker-Douglass Museum and local cafes like 49 West.
Suite Access
Enter through the main entrance of 111 Cathedral Street. Take the stairs or the elevator up to the third floor, where Suite 301 is located.
Parking Details
Paid parking is available directly behind the building at the Larkin Lot (with parking passes available) or nearby at the public Gott’s Garage.
Public Transit
Served by Maryland Transit Administration Route 70 (Annapolis); nearest stop is at Calvert Street & Bladen Street.
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