McDermott Will & Emery Strengthens IP Litigation Team with Atlanta Partner Shane Nichols

International law firm McDermott Will & Emery has expanded its Intellectual Property (IP) litigation practice with the appointment of Shane Nichols as a partner. Nichols joins the firm’s recently established Atlanta office, where he will collaborate with IP partner Jeffrey Toney and other recent additions, including Michael Siekman and Jenny Chen in Boston.

Bill Gaede, leader of McDermott’s global intellectual property practice, highlighted Nichols’ alignment with the firm’s client-focused approach. “Our global clients count on relentless advocacy—the ability to provide innovative solutions and maximize value at every stage of the IP lifecycle. Shane’s experience aligns with these pillars and adds strength to every facet of our IP litigation practice,” Gaede said.

Nichols brings a distinctive background as an electrical engineer combined with broad industry experience. His expertise spans technologies related to the food and beverage, telecommunications, and petrochemical sectors. Additionally, his work in medical device litigation complements McDermott’s leading life sciences practice.

“I’m excited to join McDermott and help expand the Firm’s IP presence in Atlanta,” Nichols stated. “In the increasingly competitive IP landscape, it is vital for firms to help clients seamlessly navigate the unexpected, and McDermott is best in the business at that. I look forward to working with this incredibly talented team.”

Nichols’ practice focuses on a wide range of intellectual property litigation matters, including patent and trade secrets disputes. Beyond his legal work, he serves on the Board of Directors for Public Broadcasting Atlanta, which includes NPR and PBS affiliates.

He also contributes to legal education by teaching trial techniques to law students at Emory University. His professional involvement extends to several associations, notably having served as chairman of the Intellectual Property Section of the State Bar of Georgia.

Nichols earned his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Vanderbilt University and his law degree from Emory University School of Law.

McDermott Will & Emery operates with a global footprint, partnering with leaders worldwide to overcome challenges and shape markets. The firm’s integrated teams across more than 20 locations provide innovative legal solutions, leveraging the expertise of over 1,200 lawyers to advance client success in complex matters.