Sterne Kessler Recognized in 2026 WTR 1000 for Trademark and Brand Protection Practice

Washington, D.C. (January 28, 2026) – Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox is again recognized as a leading law firm for prosecution and strategy, as well as enforcement and litigation in the 2026 World Trademark Review (WTR) 1000: The World’s Leading Trademark Professionals. In addition to the firm’s rankings, Directors Monica Riva Talley and Tracy-Gene Durkin and Counsel Lauriel Dalier and Dana Justus were individually recognized for their deep industry knowledge and exceptional client services.

WTR 1000 editors note that Sterne Kessler is “as good as it gets” with “stellar trademark services.” Clients praised the Trademark & Brand Protection Practice team as “extremely responsive, knowledgeable, and professional. Known for their ability to understand the nuances of their clients’ businesses and tailor their advice accordingly…every member of the team is a pleasure to work with.”

In the individual rankings, Monica Riva Talley, head of the Trademark and Brand Protection Practice, was ranked for the 15th consecutive year with a Gold band ranking for prosecution and strategy in the DC Metro Area. Clients praised Talley for “consistently delivering sound, well-reasoned advice.” She “communicates results clearly and concisely, offering just the right level of detail to explain the rationale behind each clearance opinion without unnecessary verbosity.”

Tracy-Gene Durkin was ranked for the 13th consecutive year and commended as “a powerhouse as to the world of IP.” WTR editors added “she has honed her insight over three decades and excels in challenges that demand creative, thoughtful solutions.” Lauriel Dalier was lauded for her “sharp, business-savvy advice and secure robust protection for her clients.” Clients recognized Dana Justus as “extremely competent, responsive and a delight to work with” and WTR noted “her trademark prowess has earned the trust of clients ranging from innovative startups to multinational corporations across a wide range of industries.”

The WTR 1000: The World’s Leading Trademark Professionals rankings identifies the leading professionals and firms based on their depth of expertise, market presence, and sophistication of work that are deemed outstanding at obtaining, protecting, managing, enforcing, and monetizing trademarks. View the firm’s complete 2026 WTR 1000 profile here and the full WTR 1000 rankings here.

About Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox

Based in Washington, D.C. and renowned for more than four decades for dedication to the protection, enhancement, and enforcement of intellectual property rights, Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox is one of the most highly regarded intellectual property specialty law firms in the world. Its team of attorneys, registered patent agents, technical specialists, specialized trademark paralegals, and law clerks include some of the country’s most respected practitioners of IP law, tackling innovations across a broad spectrum of industries. The firm’s practitioners represent Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurs, start-ups, inventors, venture capital firms, and universities in a client service driven environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating. Visit the firm online at sternekessler.com.