Winston & Strawn

Firm overview:

Winston & Strawn’s planned merger with Taylor Wessing, expected to complete in May 2026, will bring together more than 1,400 lawyers. With regards to IP, the tie-up would create a transatlantic platform combining Taylor Wessing’s Tier 1 UK-EU intellectual property practice with Winston & Strawn’s US-focused IP litigation capability.

Known for its 450+ team of litigators, Winston handles high-stakes trade secrets disputes across the US. The team’s cases have involved the theft of business-critical trade secrets ranging from intricate technologies to manufacturing processes, product designs, and proprietary customer and pricing information.

The Trade Secrets, Non Competes & Restrictive Covenants practice also offers services including assessments, audits and programme building; internal forensic investigations; and counselling on situations where trade secret theft occurs as a result of a cybersecurity breach.

Team overview:

Former US Patent and Trademark Office director Kathi Vidal has completed a full year back at the firm, after rejoining in December 2024. A foremost authority in IP and artificial intelligence, Vidal adds significant expertise to Winston’s team, including on trade secrets matters.

William (Bill) O’Neill, the managing partner of the Chicago office, concentrates on high-stakes trial work including a recent District of Delaware case involving complex chemistry. A peer reports O’Neill is a robust competitor. He also acts as an advisor to some of the nation’s largest corporations and private equity funds.

Dallas partner Natalie Arbaugh is an experienced trial lawyer who handles matters involving breach of contract, trade secrets and more.