Overview
(February 18, 2026, Washington, DC) – Steptoe is pleased to announce that partner and chair of Steptoe's Trademark and Copyright practice Michael J. Allan and associate Joseph F. Ecker have been recognized by the leading trademark organization World Trademark Review in the 2026 edition of the World Trademark Review 1000. The annual guide identifies top trademark practitioners around the globe and is considered a definitive resource for companies seeking world‑class brand protection and enforcement capabilities.
Mike and Joe were selected for inclusion based on their significant contributions to Steptoe’s nationally recognized trademark litigation and prosecution practice. Their work spans high‑stakes enforcement actions, complex opposition proceedings, and strategic portfolio management for leading brands in the fashion, entertainment, food and beverage, technology, and automotive sectors.
Both attorneys contribute to Steptoe's broad trademark practice, which spans registration and portfolio development, enforcement programs, administrative proceedings, and complex litigation across US federal courts, the ITC, and the TTAB. Their recognition in the 2026 WTR 1000 underscores Steptoe’s leadership in protecting some of the world’s most valuable brands.
About Steptoe
In more than 110 years of practice, Steptoe has earned an international reputation for vigorous representation of clients before governmental agencies, successful advocacy in litigation and arbitration, and creative and practical advice in structuring business transactions. Steptoe has more than 500 lawyers and other professional staff across offices in Beijing, Brussels, Chicago, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Washington, DC. For more information, visit www.steptoe.com.
