Ward and Smith and Attorneys Recognized in WTR 1000 2024

March 1, 2024

Ward and Smith, P.A.

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Ward and Smith and four of its attorneys have been recognized by World Trademark Review 1000 (WTR 1000)—the world's leading guide to trademark professionals and firms—as leaders in intellectual property in North Carolina.

In the 2024 edition, Ward and Smith earned the Silver Band Ranking for being "a reliable and flexible law firm" that is home to "thorough and responsive attorneys who can be relied on whenever delicate trademark issues arise."

The team lauded for its thorough and responsive approach to handling delicate trademark issues are:

Art DeBaugh, a North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Trademark Law with three decades of experience. He was awarded the Gold Band Ranking for his problem-solving skills. The publication stated that Art "is extremely skilled at carrying out complicated clearances, filing and prosecuting trademark applications at the USPTO, and when providing in-depth opinions and guidance in contentious matters. He uses his vast experience to reach effective solutions and to provide advice that is always clear, complete, practical and commercially aware.”

Angela Doughty, Ward and Smith's Director of Legal Innovation, received the Silver Band Ranking for her focus on delivering creative and business-minded solutions to solve complex trademark issues. She has been instrumental in Asensus Surgical's rebranding and expansion efforts, both domestically and internationally. Angela is a North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Trademark Law.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Erica Rogers received the Silver Bank Ranking for her "exceptional knowledge, attention to detail and superb customer service." She is noted to be a "vital partner to have on the side when in need of trademark protection. She is resourceful, thorough in her preparation and supportive." Erica is a North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Trademark Law.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

Joe Schouten, an "IP all-rounder" at Ward and Smith, is praised for his fierce litigation skills in handling complex contentious trademark matters with sophistication. His recent defense of Cosmos Granite Charlotte and Cosmos Granit Texas against claims of trademark infringement showcases his prowess in the field.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

The World Trademark Review 1000 is devoted to recognizing the top global providers of trademark legal services. Inclusion in the WTR 1000 is based on positive feedback from market sources. The research process was conducted over four months by a team of full-time analysts and included hundreds of interviews with trademark specialists from more than 80 jurisdictions worldwide. You can learn more here.