At Sideman & Bancroft, we are deeply committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the legal profession. As one of the largest women-owned law firms in the United States, we understand the importance of creating a balanced and supportive environment for all our attorneys and staff, regardless of gender identity. In line with this commitment, we are proud to sponsor the International Trademark Association’s (INTA) recent study, Shattering Systemic Barriers: How to Advance Gender Diversity in the Intellectual Property Profession.
About the Study
Published on July 24, 2024, the study titled Shattering Systemic Barriers: How to Advance Gender Diversity in the Intellectual Property Profession provides an in-depth analysis of how gender impacts the careers of trademark practitioners. Convened in late 2023, INTA assembled a diverse project team to develop and conduct a survey aimed at understanding representation, career progression, and work-life integration within the profession.
The research was motivated by the need to capture a current snapshot of the industry and to evaluate ongoing efforts to improve gender diversity. By identifying and measuring these initiatives, the study aims to promote those that are making significant progress. Organizations can use this research as a benchmark for future studies and to inform their diversity strategies.
The study, conducted in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Review, aligns with INTA’s 2022–2025 Strategic Plan, which prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the global IP community. Nearly 1,000 respondents from 94 jurisdictions participated, providing valuable insights into the career trajectories of men and women and the biases that can hinder women’s progress.
We are particularly proud to share that our partner, Kelly McCarthy, joined INTA as a part of the study’s Project Team. Her commitment to gender equity in the legal profession is reflected in her quote featured in the report:
“Sideman & Bancroft is proud to sponsor this important study. As one of the largest women-owned law firms in the United States, we are committed to establishing a balanced and positive environment for our attorneys and staff no matter their gender identity. This requires constant vigilance, and the Report’s findings are extremely helpful. We hope that the results of this study encourage others to view the practice of law through the lens of the survey respondents and look for ways to develop meaningful opportunities in their own organizations.”
Kelly is a Senior Partner at Sideman & Bancroft and a leader of the Brand Integrity and Innovation Group. Ms. McCarthy advises on trademark and brand protection issues, including product and corporate name selection, trademark availability and clearance, worldwide branding strategies, trademark-related agreements, and the management and prosecution of global and US trademark portfolios. Kelly is active in the International Trademark Association (INTA), serving on various committees and the Research Advisory Council.
Read the full study here.
