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Tom Ryan

Associate

Overview

Tom Ryan provides strategic, business-focused support to clients seeking to protect and grow their brands in competitive markets. He partners closely with clients across a wide range of industries — including commercial and consumer products, home service franchising, financial and investment services, chemical manufacturing, software and artificial intelligence, and professional sports — to develop practical, long-term trademark strategies.

Tom is known for being responsive, thoughtful and solutions oriented. Whether guiding a client through a complex enforcement issue or helping launch a new brand, Tom brings a steady, collaborative approach aimed at aligning legal protection with business objectives.

Trademark Portfolio Management

Tom helps clients build, maintain and grow trademark portfolios that support their business strategy — whether they're managing a handful of key marks or coordinating global rights across multiple markets. His work includes conducting clearance searches, overseeing U.S. and international filings, responding to Office Actions, and advising on proper use and maintenance of trademarks.

He works closely with clients to align portfolio decisions with commercial priorities, offering practical guidance that reflects both short- and long-term brand goals.

Trademark Enforcement & Online Brand Protection

Tom provides comprehensive enforcement support to protect clients’ trademarks and online brand presence. His work includes monitoring for infringement and unauthorized use, drafting cease and desist letters, and developing tailored enforcement strategies.

He has strong experience in anti-cybersquatting matters and domain name disputes, including handling Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) complaints to recover infringing domain names. Tom advises clients on practical strategies to safeguard their brands in the digital space and navigate complex online enforcement challenges.

By combining legal insight with business-focused solutions, Tom helps clients protect and preserve their brand reputation.

Prior Experience

Before becoming an attorney, Tom worked extensively as a patent paralegal at an IP boutique firm, gaining valuable hands-on experience in patent prosecution. This background provides him with a practical understanding of intellectual property and helps him deliver detailed, client-focused advice.

Personal Interests

Outside of work, Tom enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and biking — or just walking his dog, Zappa. He also appreciates live music and is always on the lookout for the next concert to attend.

Credentials

Bar Admissions

Illinois

Education

University of Illinois Chicago School of Law
J.D. cum laude, UIC John Marshall Law Review (lead articles editor) (2021)

Roosevelt University
Paralegal Post-Baccalaureate Certificate with honors (2012)

University of Illinois at Chicago
B.A. in English and Psychology (2009)

Leadership & Community

Pro Bono

  • Tom is committed to giving back through pro bono work, offering legal support to those in need. Among his pro bono efforts, he has worked on an asylum matter, helping a small family navigate complex immigration challenges.

Professional Associations

  • Chicago Bar Association
  • Illinois State Bar Association
  • International Trademark Association (INTA) — Internet Committee, 2024-25
  • Lawyers for the Creative Arts (LCA) — Volunteer
  • Leadership Council on Legal Diversity — Mentor
  • UIC Law — Mentor

Honors

  • Faegre Drinker — Pro Bono Honor Roll, 2022
Awards Methodology
No aspect of these recognitions has been approved by the highest court of any state.