The group at Baker Botts L.L.P. is noted for its capabilities to handle the a host of patent matters, advising its varied client portfolio on complex matters involving licensing, portfolio development, and patent analysis. The team also advises clients on general patent strategy. Christa Brown-Sanford heads up the team from Dallas, drawing on key expertise in tech, particularly in the telecoms and electronics sectors. The other co-heads are Samir Bhavsar, who handles patent mining, preparation, and prosecution at the same office, as well as Jennifer Tempesta and Sandra Lee —both based in New York—noted for their experience in pharmaceutical, chemical, medical device, and consumer products matters. Eliot Williams (Washington DC) and Chad Walters (Dallas) are both standout practitioners with PTAB trial specialisms. Natalie Gonzales left to join Yetter Coleman LLP in May 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Baker Botts is able to draw from a diverse bench of individuals to support our needs. This diversity is reflected in terms of technical background, years and types of experience, and personal histories and traits.'
- 'They have been willing to engage with us on open negotiations and have been able to handle urgent matters on quick notice. Their work product, and particularly counseling on patent prosecution matters, are highly valued among our internal team.'
- 'Matthew Avery is a highly skilled and knowledgeable professional. I greatly value his insight drawn from his years of experience with a variety of technical fields and company sizes. He has shown a keen ability to build a highly competent and ultimately successful team regardless of client needs. In addition, I greatly value his apparent investment in associate growth.'
- The firm is great to work with. Their work is comprehensive and well-reasoned, and their attorneys are both sophisticated and competent.'
- 'They consistently meet deadlines, produce good quality work, employ innovative legal strategies and foster a collaborative team environment.'
Key clients
- Cisco Systems, Inc.
- Genentech Inc.
- Lyft Inc.
- Hewlett Packard Enterprises
- Fathom5 Corporation
- OhSnap, Inc.
- Bank of America
- Lennox International
- Iridium Technologies
- Brother Industries Ltd.
Work highlights
- Served as Cisco’s primary outside counsel for patent licensing, strategic portfolio development, defensive patent analysis, and overall counseling and patent strategy.
- Handling a wide variety of diligence and prosecution matters for Genentech and providing strategic advice concerning IP issues arising at each level of product development, from pre-clinical R&D through product launch and beyond.
- Enhancing the protection and management of Lyft's intellectual property assets, serving as trusted advisor and partner in securing and building Lyft's comprehensive patent portfolio.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Eliot Williams
Practice head
Christa Brown-Sanford; Jennifer Tempesta; Sandra Lee; Samir Bhavsar
Other key lawyers
Eliot Williams; Chad Walters; Matthew Avery; David Wu