Foley & Lardner LLP: Joseph N. Ziebert – Milwaukee, WI

High-Stakes Intellectual Property Strategy

Joseph N. Ziebert is a distinguished partner at Foley & Lardner LLP, leading the charge in intellectual property law within one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious law firms. With a background in electrical engineering and decades of legal experience, Attorney Ziebert bridges the gap between complex technology and corporate strategy. He is a member and former chair of the firm’s Electronics Practice, making him a go-to counsel for companies navigating the competitive landscapes of high-tech innovation, green energy, and medical devices.

Strategic IP Management

Attorney Ziebert’s practice extends far beyond filing patents. He serves as a strategic advisor for large-scale commercial transactions where intellectual property is a core asset.

• Mergers and Acquisitions: Leading IP due diligence for major corporate deals, including some of the largest acquisitions in Wisconsin history. He assesses the value and risks of patent portfolios to ensure his clients make informed investment decisions.
• Global Portfolio Management: Overseeing the procurement and maintenance of vast patent estates for Fortune 500 companies, ensuring that their innovations are protected in key markets around the world.
• Licensing and Litigation: Negotiating high-value licensing agreements and providing litigation support to enforce rights or defend against infringement claims.

Industry Expertise

Before his tenure at Foley, Joseph Ziebert served as chief IP counsel for Rockwell Collins, giving him unique insight into the internal pressures and needs of major corporations. His technical expertise is particularly deep in electronics, software, and renewable energy technologies. He facilitates ”patent harvesting” sessions and innovation workshops, helping engineering teams identify and capture protectable ideas that drive business value.

Recognized Excellence

Joseph Ziebert is consistently ranked among the world’s leading patent practitioners. He has been recognized by IAM Patent 1000, Chambers USA, and The Best Lawyers in America. His ability to translate technical minutiae into boardroom strategy makes him an invaluable asset to clients ranging from dynamic startups to established industry giants. Based in Foley’s Milwaukee headquarters, he continues to shape the future of IP law.