Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is a stand-out firm for Lanham Act false advertising disputes in court before the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the NAD and the FDA. The firm specializes in prosecuting and defending against requests at preliminary injunction and is experienced in handling advertising campaigns and defending ads before regulators. The team is also adept at handling class actions involving the advertising sector and assisting with regulatory investigations. Practice head David Bernstein leads the intellectual property litigation group, he focuses on false advertising cases, unfair competition, marketing disputes and disputes involving comparative advertising, substantiation and endorsements. He splits his time between San Francisco and New York. Also in New York, Megan Bannigan is known for her expertise in advertising and IP disputes, while Jared Kagan is well-versed in advertising and marketing law, representing clients before the NAD. Christopher Ford assists with trade mark and false advertising cases. Melissa Runsten resides in Washington D.C. and excels in FDA and FTC regulatory issues, representing clients in NAD disputes involving regulatory issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Debevoise & Plimpton stands out for its deep expertise in false advertising litigation and NAD proceedings, combined with a business-minded approach that balances legal rigor with practical strategy. The team is highly skilled at navigating Lanham Act disputes, consumer class actions, and challenges before regulatory bodies like the FTC and NAD.'
‘David Bernstein is widely regarded as a thought leader in advertising and trademark litigation, bringing unmatched strategic vision and decades of experience to complex, high-stakes disputes. Jared Kagan is one of the most strategic and detail-oriented counsel in advertising and trademark litigation we have had the pleasure of working with. Marissa Baron stands out for her precision in drafting and her ability to manage high-pressure matters with calm efficiency and clear communication.’
‘David Bernstein, Megan Bannigan and Christopher Ford were aggressive litigators that put forth excellent litigation strategy. They knew the nuances and most minute details of our case. We appreciated their balanced, direct counseling regarding strengths and merits of our case. They provided a wonderful team of associates who demonstrated true passion for our case.’
‘Christopher Ford is the rare young counsel who worked around the clock, endlessly, and knew every minute detail of our case. He could advise both on the substantive law as well as how the judge and opposing counsel would react in order to drive strategy. He will be a star litigator. Megan Bannigan is an aggressive litigator who operates without fear or hesitation. David Bernstein provided excellent counsel.'
‘Debevoise & Plimpton's reputation proceeds itself, especially for companies facing bet-the-company litigation. The firm delivers. Debevoise stands out against others in the industry due to the breath of its Lanham Act practice, the deep knowledge of the ins and outs of false advertising and especially false-advertising class actions, and the strategic, out-of-the-box thinking of its attorneys. ’
‘Megan Bannigan is a fantastic lawyer and strategic thinker. She knows the ins and outs of the Lanham Act and class actions. She is very effective at distilling complex issues and has superb presentation skills before judges and laypersons. Jared Kagen is a rising star in the Lanham Act and advertising world. His attention to clients and responsiveness is remarkable.’
Key clients
- H&R Block
- Judd Foundation
- DraftKings
- Trajector Medical
- Rauch
- Casa Azul
- Wex
- W.R. Grace & Co.
- FMI
Work highlights
Represented W.R. Grace in a victory in a federal bench trial in Maryland, defeating false advertising and patent infringement claims by G.W. Aru.
Advised Judd Foundation on a pro bono basis in a high-profile lawsuit against Kim Kardashian and Clements Design in California federal court.
Represented H&R Block in a lawsuit brought by Intuit for false advertising regarding H&R Block’s claims that its online DIY tax preparation products are less expensive than those that Intuit provides with TurboTax.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
David Bernstein
Other key lawyers
Jared Kagan; Marissa Baron; Megan Bannigan; Christopher Ford; Kate Saba; Melissa Runsten