E. Anthony Figg and RFEM Named in the IAM Patents 1000: The World's Leading Patent Practitioners Guide

Rothwell, Figg, Ernst & Manbeck and co-founder Tony Figg have been identified for best-in-class firm and individual expertise in all major areas of patent law and practice by Intellectual Asset Management magazine, in its new online and print research publication, IAM Patents 1000: The World's Leading Patent Practitioners. Many months of phone and face-to-face interviews were held globally with over 800 patent attorneys, lawyers and corporate counsel, who were asked to identify the practitioners and firms in their jurisdictions which they believe provide top class services in areas such as patent procurement, processing, licensing, prosecution and litigation. Firms also were invited to submit details of recent work they have handled and client references, which IAM then verified. Editor Joff Wild notes "the aim was to identify in a standalone publication the practitioners and practices that companies turn to when only the best patent work will do."

The IAM Patents 1000 guide covers both general practice law firms and patent attorney firms, providing tables and regional market overviews, as well as detailed commentary explaining why each firm and individual has been ranked. In the Washington, DC Metro Area, Tony Figg was ranked among the top eight patent litigators in the Gold category; RFEM overall was listed in the Bronze category for "quality (that) runs right through the ranks" in patent litigation. Peers canvassed termed RFEM a "cutting-edge IP specialist" firm, "small but perfectly formed" and "terrific all round." Tony Figg was described as "one of the best adversaries you can come up against," and "a thought leader who has played a substantial role in patent reform over decades."

The IAM Patents 1000 research team further noted that RFEM "maintains a full-scope patent practice, but is especially recommended for litigation, ... a central focus. The life sciences sector is a stronghold, although (RFEM) also works deftly with mechanical and computer technologies. As testament to its high standing, (RFEM) is a popular choice for referrals in conflict situations due to its lean, efficient and consistent staffing of cases, which renders a cost-effective, results-driven service."