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Robert D. Leighton

Principal

Robert D. Leighton photo

Overview

Robert Leighton is a Principal in the firm’s Intellectual Property and Litigation groups. He represents clients in a wide-range of intellectual property issues, with a focus on patent and trademark litigation. Robert has substantial experience in all phases of litigation and arbitration, including trial. He also handles matters before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board, and is registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. 

In addition to litigating, Robert assists clients in obtaining and maintaining their worldwide trademark and service mark portfolios. He also assists clients in negotiating and documenting business transactions involving intellectual property, including licenses and assignments. Robert also frequently advises clients on issues relating to data privacy and security. 

Robert has handled cases involving wireless devices, telecommunications, encryption, fiber optics, medical devices, biotechnology and nutritional technology, among others. 

Illinois Leading Lawyers recognized him as an Emerging Lawyer in Intellectual Property and Copyright & Trademark Law in 2022 and 2023.

Credentials

Education

  • Loyola University Chicago School of Law, J.D., 2008

    magna cum laude

  • University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, B.S., 2005

    – Industrial Engineering

Admissions

  • Illinois
  • United States Supreme Court
  • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit
  • United States Patent and Trademark Office

Professional Activities

  • International Trademark Association, Emerging Issues Committee Member; Blockchain Subcommittee Member  
  • American Intellectual Property Law Association, Member