Kristen S. Knecht

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312-554-7943

kknecht@pattishall.com

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First of all, I have to know, is it true that you grew up in a town called "Bad Axe"?
Yes! The town was named after a broken hatchet the founders came upon in the woods. One of the things I like about Pattishall is that it has the same feelings of warmth and collegiality I remember from my days growing up in that small town in Michigan.

Can you describe some of the issues you've dealt with in your substantive areas?
I've counseled clients and litigated in a variety of areas, including cybersquatting, copyright infringement, trademark infringement, unfair competition, dilution, libel and defamation, and false and misleading advertising cases. I've also worked with clients on brand development and protection, and advertising and promotions. I've handled cases in Federal and state courts, and U.S. Patent and Trademark Office proceedings.

What industries have you represented?
As a litigator, my job is to understand as much as I can about the particular industry of my clients. I've had the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, consumer durables, food products, and architecture while handling matters for clients such as Abbott Laboratories, Kohler Co., Marcel Media, J&G Farms and Expedia.

I'd be interested in hearing about some representative projects you`ve worked on.
Where possible, I try to negotiate settlements of disputes that can be resolved efficiently and at a lower cost. With intellectual property law issues, however, a client`s business can suffer serious damage in a short time, so a litigator has to respond rapidly. One example was a trademark infringement case involving counterfeit appliances. Over the course of three days, I worked with a small team of lawyers to investigate, interview witnesses, draft papers seeking emergency court intervention, and prepare a complete set of discovery requests. We ultimately obtained the desired relief for our client, including seizure of the counterfeit products.

How do you help your clients protect their brands?
I help my clients develop a solid trademark portfolio, guiding them through clearance, application, prosecution, and maintenance of registrations. I also enforce my clients' rights and, if necessary, defend them against infringement claims through litigation, administrative proceedings or negotiation.

By listening carefully and focusing on my client's goals and resources, I develop a legal strategy designed specifically for that client or project. This might mean planning a large-scale litigation or aggressively pursing a cease-and-desist demand. I work hard to make sure that my knowledge of the substantive law and the relevant procedures is shared with my clients in a clear and useful way.