For IP lawyers, submitting to legal directories can be a year-round task. Unlike other practice areas that usually submit two or three times a year, IP itself can have us writing up to eight submissions per year. Today, I’m going to go over some of the main IP guides and hopefully help you decide which ones you should be submitting to.
IP Stars
IP Stars is the all in one IP Directory. The submission covers all types of work as well as all types of IP.
The submission is broken down into a number of sections:
- Patent Case Studies
- Trademark Case Studies
- Copyright Case Studies
- Design Case Studies
- IP Transaction Case Studies
- Domain Name Case Studies
- IP Tax Advice Case Studies
In last year’s IP Stars webinar, researchers emphasized that incomplete sections do not affect rankings, understanding that boutique firms may specialize in only a few areas. There is no maximum number of matters you may add; however, we recommend only 10 matters per section.
Referees: There are two separate referee sheets, one for referees from law firms (in-house or otherwise) and the other for referees from other companies. Researchers at IP Stars have explicitly said, “the more referees, the better.”
Awards: Yes, at the end of the submission, there is also an option to participate in the Awards. The submission does not affect the Awards, so please highlight the biggest matters from the last year in the Awards section.
Deadline: October/November
Who should submit: Any firm with an IP department
IAM Patent 1000
IAM Patent 1000 identifies the top patent practitioners and firms in key jurisdictions around the globe.
While the rankings have separate tables for Patent Prosecution, Litigation, and Transactions, the submission also includes a separate section for Trade Secrets. It is recommended to select 15 matters per section.
Referees: Up to 5 referees for each submitting practitioner.
Awards: Yes, by submitting to the guide, you will automatically be entered for the Global IP Awards, which are a collaboration between the IAM Editorial teams and their sister platform, the World Trademark Review.
Deadline: September
Who should submit: Firms that specialize in Patent law
IAM Strategy 300
This guide recognizes leading IP strategists worldwide for their exceptional skills in maximizing IP asset value. Unlike most guides, consideration for IAM Strategy 300 is based on receiving at least three external nominations. Self-nominations will not be accepted. After receiving the nominations, a researcher will contact the nominee for further information.
Awards: No
Deadline: December
Who should participate: IP Strategists
World Trademark Review 1000
A sister platform of IAM, the World Trademark Review (WTR) is a leading source of news, analysis, and insights on trademark law and practice globally.
The submission is broken down into three categories:
- Prosecution and Strategy
- Enforcement and Litigation
- Licensing and Transactions
While there is no limit on the number of matters, we recommend up to 15 matters per section.
This year, WTR added a section for firms to introduce their copyright practice, providing a broader view of their IP offerings.
Referees: Up to 5 referees for each submitting practitioner.
Awards: Yes, participation in the WTR Awards will automatically enter you in the running for the WTR Industry Awards, as well as the Global IP Awards.
Deadline: March
Who should submit: Firms that specialize in Trademark and Copyright Law
Chambers and Legal 500
Most countries for Chambers Global/Europe and Legal 500 EMEA have one general Intellectual Property submission that covers all types of IP (patent, trademark, copyright etc.) and a full scope of IP work.
However, some regions, have multiple IP practice areas in these guides. For example, Spain has five different IP Practice areas for Chambers and three for Legal 500. Therefore, before submitting, it is imperative to check your jurisdiction’s specifics beforehand.
For both guides, the number of matters is capped at 20.
Referees:
- Chambers: 20-30 referee maximum depending on your region. For Chambers referrals are the most important factor in determining rankings.
- Legal 500: Unlimited referees
Awards: No
Deadline:
- Chambers: Depends on jurisdiction
- Legal 500: August
Who should submit: Any firm with an IP department
In conclusion, selecting the right legal directories for IP submissions can significantly enhance your firm’s visibility and recognition in the industry. By understanding the specific requirements and deadlines for each guide, you can strategically plan your submissions to maximize impact. Whether you specialize in patents, trademarks, or a broader range of IP services, there is a directory that aligns with your expertise. Stay organized and proactive to ensure your firm gains the recognition it deserves.
