About John

John Christopher is a partner at Leech Tishman in Plantation, Florida, where he leads the firm's South Florida office. With over 30 years of legal experience, he specializes in intellectual property matters, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights. His clients includes publicly traded companies, startups, individuals, universities, and investors across many industries. This extensive background allows him to provide tailored legal solutions that meet the needs of each client. He earned his Juris Doctor from Northeastern University in 1992, following a Bachelor of Science from the United States Air Force Academy in 1980. Before embarking on his legal career, John served as a U.S.

Air Force fighter pilot from 1980 to 1989. This military experience has instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and leadership, qualities that he brings to his legal practice. He has been admitted to practice law in Florida since 2001 and in Massachusetts since 1992. Additionally, John has been authorized to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office since 1992, further solidifying his expertise in intellectual property law. John's practice encompasses all aspects of intellectual property portfolio development, management, exploitation, and enforcement.

He adeptly handles business transactions related to intellectual property, guiding clients through critical stages from startup to financing rounds, initial public offerings, mergers, and acquisitions. His comprehensive approach ensures that clients are well-informed and strategically positioned in their respective markets. He is particularly skilled in navigating enforcement actions, helping clients protect their intellectual property rights effectively. An active member of the American Intellectual Property Law Association (AIPLA), John has served as an Association Delegate to Asia. In this role, he has engaged with legal and government officials in Hong Kong, China, and South Korea, fostering international relationships and enhancing his understanding of global intellectual property issues. He is also a member of the International Trademark Association (INTA) and the Broward County Bar Association, where he served as Chairman of the Corporate Counsel Section.

Additionally, he is involved with the Intellectual Property Law Association of Florida, contributing to the advancement of the field. Recognized for his expertise, John has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America and holds an AVVO rating of 10.0 (Superb). His fluency in French allows him to communicate effectively with a broader range of clients and partners. Throughout his career, he has participated in various community and professional activities, demonstrating his commitment to both the legal profession and the community at large. John's experience and dedication to intellectual property law make him a valuable asset to his clients and the legal community.

Education

Northeastern University

J.D.

1989

United States Air Force Academy

B.S.

1976

Accepted Jurisdictions

Florida
US Patent & Trademark Office
Massachusetts

Court Admissions

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit U.S. Circuit Court · Admitted 1992
U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit U.S. Circuit Court · Admitted 1992
U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts U.S. District Court · Admitted 1992

Types of Cases Handled

Patent Appeals Patent Litigation Patent Prosecution Copyright Internet & Domain Names Litigation of Patent & Trademark Matters Trademark

Legal Services Scope

Start-up Financing Rounds Initial Public Offerings Mergers Acquisitions Enforcement Actions

Professional Associations

Massachuestts State Bar

has membership 1992 - Current

Office Locations

Main Office

 1232 N. University Drive Plantation FL 33322