Founder and Principal

Brian J. Winterfeldt

email
brian@winterfeldt.law
phone
202-759-5833

Founder & Principal, Winterfeldt IP Group

Brian J. Winterfeldt

With over 25 years of experience in trademark and Internet law, Brian J. Winterfeldt is a leading authority in intellectual property strategy and brand protection. As the Founder and Principal of Winterfeldt IP Group, Brian advises global clients on trademark creation, enforcement, and protection across diverse industries, including technology, fashion, finance, entertainment, and retail. His expertise spans trademark clearance, prosecution, enforcement, trade dress, copyright, and digital brand enforcement across websites, social media, marketplaces, and apps.

Brian is a recognized expert in Internet governance, particularly within ICANN's gTLD programs, and develops innovative strategies for domain name portfolio management, online brand monitoring, and infringement takedowns. He frequently advises on emerging digital issues, including AI-related intellectual property concerns.

Thought Leadership & Advocacy

Brian is a sought-after speaker and published author on trademark law, Internet governance, and social media brand protection. He has held leadership roles with the International Trademark Association (INTA), served on the USPTO's Trademark Public Advisory Committee (TPAC), and contributes thought leadership through webinars, articles, and industry conferences.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) & Pro Bono Work

A passionate advocate for DEI, Brian serves on the INTA DEI Council and contributes to the Institute for Inclusion in the Legal Profession (IILP). He has chaired the LGBTQ+ Bar's Intellectual Property Law Institute and served on The Trevor Project's Board of Directors for nearly a decade. His commitment extends to pro bono services supporting underrepresented communities and diversity initiatives.

Awards & Recognition

Consistently ranked as an AV Preeminent Attorney by Martindale-Hubbell, Brian is also recognized by The World Trademark Review, Chambers & Partners, and World IP Review as a top intellectual property practitioner.

Education

  • BA in Art History, Emory University
  • MA in Latin American Studies, Tulane University
  • JD, Georgetown University Law Center

Brian Winterfeldt combines legal excellence, thought leadership, and a deep commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in the legal industry, making him a trusted partner for global intellectual property strategies.

Accolades

  • Awards & Accolades
    • 2017–Present: Chambers Ranked Attorney for Trademark, Copyright, and Trade Secrets
    • 2011–Present: World Trademark Review (WTR) 1000 - Leading Trademark Practitioners; Gold for Prosecution and Counseling (Washington DC); Gold for New gTLDs (Nationally)
    • 2021–Present: World Trademark Review (WTR) Global Leaders, Private Practice (Washington DC)
    • 2020–Present: Martindale-Hubbell, AV Preeminent Attorney
    • 2014–Present: Managing Intellectual Property, IP Star (New York: 2014–2018; Washington DC: 2019–2023)
    • 2011–Present: Who's Who Legal: Trademarks
    • 2012–2018: Euromoney Guide to the World's Leading Trademark Law Practitioners
    • 2018: OUTstanding Top 100 LGBTQ+ Executives
    • 2018: Expert Guides Ranked - The World's Leading Lawyers for Trademark
    • 2017: National Law Journal IP Trailblazer
    • 2013: Minority Corporate Counsel Association, Rainmaker
    • 2011: International Trademark Association Volunteer Service Award for the Advancement of Committee Objectives
    • 2011: National LGBT Bar Association, Best LGBT Attorneys Under 40


Activities

  • Professional Memberships & Leadership Roles
    • United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): Past Member, Trademark Public Advisory Committee (TPAC)
    • American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA): Brand Enforcement Council Member
    • International Trademark Association (INTA): Past Board of Directors, Special Advisor to the Internet Committee; Current Member of Brands and Innovation Committee, DEI Council, and PAC Board
    • Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN): Member, Intellectual Property Constituency (IPC); Past President, Treasurer, and GNSO Councilor
    • MARQUES (European Trademark Association): Member
    • National LGBTQ+ Bar Association: Chair, Intellectual Property Law Institute (2014–2021)
    • BNA Electronic Commerce & Law Report: Advisory Board Member
    • The Trevor Project: Past Board of Directors Member, Secretary, and Executive Committee Member
    • International AntiCounterfeiting Coalition: Member
    • New York City Bar Association: Member
    • INTA Trademark Administration Project Team: Member (2011–Present)

Brian

's Upcoming Events

No upcoming events at this time.

Brian

's Past Events

Subscribe

* indicates required
www.xyz@abc.com
/( mm / dd )