The WTR 1000 focuses exclusively on trademark practice and has firmly established itself as the definitive 'go-to' resource for those seeking world-class legal trademark expertise
Silver - Individuals
Spokane-based boutique Lee & Hayes is highly sought after for their IP expertise and the diligence and care with which they deliver top notch client service. Not only is the firm one of the state’s top trademark filers, but the team can also secure success in the courtroom. Practice head Rhett Barney earns stellar recommendations from his clients. “Rhett is extremely knowledgeable over a wide variety of topics throughout multiple jurisdictions. His demeanour also makes him a pleasure to work with and enables him to solve disputes amicably. He also brings a level of business savvy and understanding in providing counsel to his clients, which is absolutely appreciated. He is a straightforward communicator with a practical eye toward presenting options. His advice is prompt, thorough and always tailored towards client objectives.” Associate Ethan Vodde is a keen up-and-comer, already prosecuting trademarks for his own clients, such as Wig Studio 1. He also navigated an enforcement issue for the same client, bringing the matter to a successfully negotiated conclusion. Vodde additionally supports Barney on a range of TTAB oppositions for Zoox, Inc., Tandem Speech Therapy and The Humble Co.
Ethan Vodde’s practice focuses on trademark, brand protection, copyright and licensing. In addition to trademark and copyright prosecution, he represents clients in trademark opposition and cancellation proceedings before the US Patent and Trademark Office’s Trademark Trial and Appeal Board, as well as in copyright litigation, privacy matters and arbitration. Mr Vodde is involved in multiple US Federal District court proceedings involving trademark and copyright issues.
Mr Vodde consistently presents on trademark and copyright issues, both as a continuing legal education presenter and a panellist at ‘geek’ conventions, where he educates and informs authors, gamers and devoted fans about intellectual property rights, infringement and enforcement. Mr Vodde currently serves on the Washington State Bar Association Intellectual Property section executive committee. He is an active member of the International Trademark Association (INTA) and is a member of INTA’s Young Practitioners Committee. Mr Vodde is also proud to serve as an adjunct professor at Gonzaga University School of Law, where he coaches the Saul Lefkowitz Moot Court (trademark) team.
Mr Vodde received his JD from Gonzaga University School of Law. During law school, he served in the chambers of the Honourable Steven González at the Washington State Supreme Court, received pro bono distinction, won the school-wide oral advocacy competition and competed on the Saul Lefkowitz Moot Court team, where he advanced to the national finals and won the oral advocacy award at his regional competition. Mr Vodde also has a master’s in public administration from Eastern Washington University.