About Russell M.
Russell M. Racine is a partner at Cranfill Sumner LLP, a prominent law firm with offices in Raleigh, Charlotte, and Wilmington, North Carolina. He joined the firm in 2012, bringing a experience in intellectual property law, professional liability defense, and insurance litigation. His diverse practice allows him to navigate complex legal fields effectively, making him a valuable asset to both the firm and its clients. Originally from Spartanburg, South Carolina, Russ earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Natural Science from Muhlenberg College in 1993. After completing his undergraduate studies, he worked as a chemist for three years, gaining practical experience in a scientific field.
This background in chemistry laid a solid foundation for his future legal career. In pursuit of a legal education, he attended the University of Denver College of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor in 1999. While in law school, Russ was an active member of the moot court team and worked by clerking for an intellectual property law firm. Following his graduation, Russ served as an assistant solicitor in Spartanburg, South Carolina, for three years. During this time, he handled numerous felony and misdemeanor jury trials, showcasing his litigation skills. His role also involved participating in the development of Drug Court, which highlights his commitment to addressing complex social issues through legal avenues.
In 2004, he relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, where he dedicated his practice to intellectual property and business litigation, adding to his legal expertise. Russ has represented clients across multiple jurisdictions, including North Carolina, South Carolina, New York, California, and Texas. His experience is not limited to traditional litigation; he has also represented businesses in opposition and cancellation proceedings before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board. Additionally, he has handled Internet domain disputes before the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, demonstrating his adaptability in the evolving digital landscape. As a Certified DRC Mediator, he conducts Superior Court mediation settlement conferences for various types of cases, further enhancing his skill set. Recognized for his contributions to the field, Russ has been included in Business North Carolina's Legal Elite for Intellectual Property in 2018, 2019, and 2022.
In 2020, he was inducted into the Legal Elite Hall of Fame, evidence of his outstanding reputation in the legal community. He is a member of several professional organizations, including the North Carolina State Bar, South Carolina State Bar, American Intellectual Property Law Association, and the Carolina Patent Trademark Copyright Law Association. Russ is based in the firm's Charlotte office, located at 2907 Providence Road, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28211, where he continues to serve clients with dedication and expertise.
