Merchant & Gould hires litigation quintet from Oblon

Oblon managing partner among ITC and complex IP litigation team to join new firm | Transitioning was the “right move” says Daniel Pereria.

Merchant & Gould has brought in an experienced five-person IP team from Oblon.

Daniel Pereira, John Kern, Eric Schweibenz, and Donald McPhail, will serve as partners and Alexander Englehart, as of counsel in its Merchant’s Washington, DC office.

The new additions will expand the firm’s capabilities in handling International Trade Commission (ITC) cases, complex IP litigation, post-grant proceedings, patent prosecution, and strategic IP portfolio management, as well as increase its presence in Japan, mainland China, Taiwan and Korea.

"Each of these experienced attorneys brings the right cross-culture experience and technical background that we want at Merchant & Gould," said Heather Kliebenstein, managing director and partner at Merchant & Gould.

All five hires look forward to continuing their work in the DC area, serving clients worldwide.

"Transitioning to Merchant & Gould was the right move for us and our clients,” said Pereira, who most recently served as the managing partner and previously led the Chemical Practice Group at Oblon. Kern and Schweibenz formerly led the Electrical/Mechanical and Litigation Practice Groups, respectively, at their previous firm.

"When we look to add new talent to our team at Merchant & Gould, we want to find people who have the right mindset—forward-thinking, collaborative and client-focused," Kliebenstein added.

"Each of these attorneys embodies those values and will carry our firm's legacy forward."

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