About Stephen
Stephen McArthur earned his J.D. from Columbia Law School in 2007, where he concentrated on intellectual property law. He arrived at law school after earlier studies and left prepared for a career that would straddle both litigation and counseling in technology and creative industries. His legal education emphasized IP doctrine and the regulations that shape how creators and companies protect and commercialize their work.
He began his legal career at Cravath, Swaine & Moore in 2007. That early stint at a large, high‑profile firm gave him exposure to complex transactional and litigation matters and to the demands of corporate clients. In 2010 he moved to Irell & Manella, LLP where he continued practicing as a lawyer. Those years at two different New York firms broadened his experience and gave him practical training in managing client work under tight deadlines and high stakes.
Over the course of his career McArthur has gravitated toward intellectual property issues. He participates in professional circles that intersect with media and software. He has been a member of The Video Game Bar Association since 2014, a sign that much of his practice engages with the distinct challenges of interactive entertainment. Membership in that organization has kept him connected to other attorneys, in‑house counsel and creators who work on game development, distribution and licensing.
McArthur is admitted to practice in both New York and California. That dual admission reflects a practice that crosses state lines and often involves clients and disputes that reach into multiple jurisdictions. He handles matters common to IP practitioners: rights clearance, licensing questions and the enforcement of copyrights and trademarks. He also counsels on business arrangements that touch on software and content, helping clients structure agreements so that ownership and commercial terms are clear.
Colleagues describe him as a lawyer who prefers practical solutions. He favors clear drafting and a steady approach to dispute resolution. He spends time staying current on legal developments that affect digital media and software, including issues that arise as platforms and distribution models change.
He maintains professional memberships that keep him engaged with the evolving legal landscape around video games and technology. He is admitted in New York and California and currently practices intellectual property law, advising clients on matters involving digital media, software and the video game industry.
