Press Releases

Benesch Deepens Intellectual Property Capacity with Addition of Partner Laura M. Schaefer in Chicago

January 10, 2024

Benesch, one of the fast-growing firms on the AmLaw 200 list, is pleased to welcome Laura M. Schaefer as partner in the firm’s Intellectual Property Practice Group in Chicago.

Laura is a seasoned trademark attorney whose practice spans intellectual property litigation, prosecution, and enforcement on the domestic and international stages. She brings nearly a decade of experience advising corporations and individuals on a variety of complex matters related to trademarks, including IP asset purchases, assignments and licensing agreements, patent litigation, ICANN disputes, advertising issues and more.

“Laura is a top-notch attorney whose background adds both depth and capacity to our growing Intellectual Property group,” said Benesch Firmwide Managing Partner Gregg A. Eisenberg. “Her unique combination of litigation, prosecution and enforcement experience, and her proven ability to achieve results, will create tremendous value for Benesch’s clients on day one. We’re very happy to have her as part of our Chicago office.”

Laura’s career includes representing clients in both local and federal courts, and she brings substantial trial experience before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). She is also experienced in collaborating with experts, specifically those involved in trademark surveys, damages and pharmaceuticals.

“I’m proud to have built a practice that defends my clients’ intellectual assets while anticipating and safeguarding against future threats,” said Laura. “Benesch’s IP practice is second to none, and I look forward to contributing to a team that shares my passion for IP law and my commitment to delivering for our clients.”

Since launching a national growth strategy in 2015 and entering the Chicago market in 2016, Benesch has consistently ranked as one of the nation’s fastest-growing law firms. In the past year, the firm has added 83 lateral hires.

Laura holds a B.A. from the University of Iowa and a J.D. from Loyola University Chicago School of Law. She is a member of the Intellectual Property Law Association of Chicago (“IPLAC”), the International Trademark Association (“INTA”), and Chicago Women in IP (“ChiWIP”).

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