Pillsbury Boosts Patent Power Snags IP Star Mark Abate From Goodwin

In joining Pillsbury, Abate said he was drawn to the firm's dynamic IP platform, its collaborative culture, and its growing reputation for handling sophisticated patent disputes. “Pillsbury offers a forward-looking environment that aligns with my practice and clients’ needs,” he stated. “The firm’s breadth in technology, energy, and life sciences makes this an ideal fit.”

Abate’s arrival comes amid a broader trend of lateral partner moves within the legal industry, especially in the IP field, where expertise in niche technologies and litigation strategy is at a premium. His move also underscores Pillsbury’s continued investment in top-tier IP talent to serve clients ranging from Silicon Valley startups to multinational tech conglomerates.

Jeffrey D. Kushan, head of Pillsbury’s Intellectual Property practice, expressed enthusiasm over the hire. “Mark is a nationally recognized trial lawyer with a tremendous depth of knowledge in IP litigation. His addition significantly enhances our capabilities to represent clients in complex, high-value disputes,” Kushan said.

Abate is also a past president of the New York Intellectual Property Law Association and has been recognized by publications such as Chambers USA, Best Lawyers, and Super Lawyers for his excellence in IP law. His leadership within the profession has extended to mentoring younger attorneys and contributing to thought leadership in patent litigation trends and best practices.

The move also highlights Pillsbury’s growing footprint in New York’s competitive legal market. With offices across the U.S. and internationally, Pillsbury has steadily expanded its intellectual property bench, capitalizing on the surge of innovation in fintech, AI, biotech, and green energy sectors—areas where patent protection and enforcement are increasingly critical.

Abate’s clients, which include Fortune 500 companies, universities, and cutting-edge tech firms, are expected to benefit from Pillsbury’s strong litigation infrastructure, cross-practice collaboration, and global resources.